Mitsubishi is making a bold move by fully committing to its iconic Pajero lineup. The brand has recently confirmed the return of this powerful four-wheel drive vehicle this year, but it has also unveiled another exciting development that is sure to excite both urban and rural 4WD enthusiasts.
Mitsubishi has shared its mid to long-term strategy, and within the presentation slides, there was a hint of a new Pajero series. This announcement comes with several intriguing possibilities:
- 2027 Mitsubishi Pajero goes official: A new flagship 4WD is set to be launched in Australia this year, positioning itself as a strong competitor to the 2026 Toyota LandCruiser and Nissan Patrol.
- Mini Toyota LandCruiser FJ and 2026 Suzuki Jimny: These models are not the only ones in the spotlight. A mini version of the Mitsubishi Pajero is taking shape, promising to be a tough little 4WD with production expected next year.
- 2026 Mitsubishi Triton Raider dual-cab ute: This model is just the beginning of what could be a Ford Ranger Raptor-style, hybrid-powered Ralliart version.
The official transcript from the presentation stated: “In addition to the ‘Pajero’ to be launched this year as a model that embodies the DNA of Mitsubishi Motors-ness, we will introduce additional new models going forward as part of the ‘Pajero’ series.”
One of the most anticipated models is the mini Pajero. It remains unclear whether this model will use a rugged ladder frame similar to the incoming Pajero, which is based on the Triton ute, or if it will use an existing SUV platform for a more on-road focused design.
Last year, Japanese magazine Best Car, known for its reliable industry sources, reported that a mini Pajero was in development. Initially, it was believed that the project had been abandoned, but the success of the Delica Mini van has inspired the company to apply the same concept to one of its most famous nameplates.
It is speculated that the mini Pajero would be built on the shared Nissan and Mitsubishi kei car platform, which includes vehicles such as the Nissan Roox, Mitsubishi eK, and the aforementioned Delica Mini. This suggests compact dimensions, with a length of less than 3400mm and a width of 1480mm, along with a hybrid setup featuring no more than 47kW.
The Pajero project extends beyond just the mini version, with the slideshow showing three models. One of these could be a shorter wheelbase three-door version of the full-size Pajero. This would offer a unique selling point compared to big-name rivals like the Toyota Prado, Nissan Patrol, and Ford Everest.
Currently, there are no other details available, but the plan is for these models to be introduced in the 2030s. Therefore, we won’t see any of them until the next decade.
While a lot can change over the next decade, one thing is certain: the full-size Pajero will be here before the end of 2026. Although we have not seen it in full yet, it is expected to be officially revealed in the coming months. However, it has already been spotted testing in Australia.
The new Pajero features blocky proportions similar to the incoming Nissan Patrol. It is based on the Triton ute, which means it has a rugged ladder frame ideal for off-roading. You can expect it to tow up to 3500kg.
It is likely that the new Pajero will use the same 2.4-litre bi-turbo four-cylinder diesel engine that powers the Triton, producing 150kW and 470Nm.
