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Mitsubishi Pajero To Debut On September 2: Ladder-Frame Chassis And Diesel Hybrid Power
Japanese carmaker Mitsubishi has confirmed September 2, 2026, as the global unveiling date for the fifth-generation Pajero, with commercial rollout expected to begin in early 2027. Unlike the outgoing unibody model, the new Mitsubishi Pajero will switch back to a body-on-frame construction.
Mitsubishi has released a series of teasers ahead of the Pajero's reveal, hinting at a strong return to the nameplate's Dakar Rally roots. Full specifications remain under wraps until the debut, but early details already point to a serious off-road focus.
Mitsubishi Pajero Chassis, S-AWC And Powertrain Details
The new Pajero's ladder-frame chassis is derived from the body-on-frame platform underpinning the Triton pickup. It also carries over the Triton's S-AWC (Super All-Wheel Control) system, an electronic four-wheel-drive setup that uses torque vectoring to manage the front-to-rear torque split for better traction and stability.
S-AWC works alongside braking adjustments to improve behaviour both on-road and off it. Reports suggest the SUV could also get the Super Select 4WD-II transfer case already offered on the Triton, which lets drivers toggle between two-wheel drive, full-time all-wheel drive and a low-range mode. A dedicated off-road variant is also rumoured, positioned to rival the Toyota Land Cruiser Prado.
Mitsubishi has not revealed powertrain details yet. Given the brand's ongoing work on diesel hybrid technology, a diesel hybrid unit is a likely candidate for the new Pajero, with a PHEV and a fully electric version possible at a later stage depending on the market. Drive modes are expected to include Eco, Normal, Gravel, Sand, Snow, Mud and Rock.
Mitsubishi Pajero: Exterior And Interior Features Revealed In Teasers
Mitsubishi's teaser campaign uses a sand-based theme that plays up the Pajero's Dakar heritage, with individual letters of the "PAJERO" name used to creatively frame different design and feature details. Two distinct front fascia treatments have also been shown, suggesting the styling will differ by market.
Vertically stacked, pixel-style lighting elements are confirmed for the exterior, a detail already visible on test mules spotted earlier. Cabin details include a 14.3-inch display with a 3-gauge meter homage widget, along with semi-aniline leather on the seat back and seat surface on the range-topping S-EXCEED grade. Ventilated seats are also confirmed.
A hand-drawn sketch shared by enthusiasts points to a centre console layout featuring a 4WD dial, transfer case controls, a P-R-N-D-M shift lever, a wireless charging pad, and separate buttons for hill descent control and the rear differential lock.
Asian markets are likely to get the new Pajero from early 2027, though its India entry remains unconfirmed. A US launch is expected in 2030, where the SUV will continue to be sold as the Montero. Mitsubishi also plans to expand the Pajero range with smaller models using hybrid technology, expected to arrive between 2028 and 2030.
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