Pajero is Back, Mitsubishi Tests Its New Generation Ahead of Global Debut 2026

JAKARTA - The big name of Pajero seems ready to be revived. Mitsubishi Motors was caught bringing the latest generation of Pajero to Australia for local testing, a strong signal that the legendary SUV is getting closer to its official launch globally.

Launching Drive, Tuesday, December 23, this new SUV is said to adopt the latest body onframe platform which is also used by the new generation Triton. This step also strengthens the suspicion that Mitsubishi will return the Pajero name as the main model, instead of continuing the Pajero Sport as before.

The unit caught on camera is still wrapped in full camouflage, but its silhouette has shown a significant change in design direction. The appearance looks more muscular and box-like, leaving a rounded impression like the Pajero Sport.

Some of the details that start to be read include a clamshell-style engine hood, wider wheel arches, and a lower body line of the door that is made more firm and flat. Interestingly, a number of design touches that were first introduced on the Mitsubishi Destinator also seem to be applied.

Starting from the concept of a "floating" roof with black pillars from front to back, to the lattice-motif LED light elements in the front and stern areas. In terms of schedule, Mitsubishi is expected to officially introduce the latest Pajero in 2026.

Australia is said to be one of the initial markets after the international launch, followed in the second half of the year. Although there is no official confirmation regarding the use of the Pajero name, a more thorough design transformation and efforts to shift its position to a more premium SUV segment are believed to be strong reasons behind the revival of the legendary name.

Regarding the engine, the 2026 Pajero is predicted to carry a 2.4-liter bi-turbo diesel engine that is the same as the Triton. The peak power of 150 kW and torque of 470 Nm are likely to be maintained, but there is a chance that Mitsubishi will attach an eight-speed automatic transmission instead of the six-speed Triton owned by Triton as previously used by the Pajero Sport.

The Super Select four-wheel drive system is also believed to remain a mainstay. This feature allows full-time 4WD use on paved roads and heavy terrain, offering more flexibility than conventional 4x4 systems with low-range only.

It is not yet certain whether the unit seen in Australia is specifically for validation tests or other agendas. However, Mitsubishi previously confirmed that Australia is seen as a key market, so that the development of its global model often involves more in-depth technical input from the Kangaroo Country.