The Mitsubishi Pajero is officially set to return, with Mitsubishi Motors Corporation confirming an all-new model will be unveiled at a world premiere later this year.

The announcement marks the return of the Pajero nameplate since 2021, when overseas sales of the long-running SUV ended. In Australia, the Pajero was also phased out in 2021, with final run-out stock sold into 2022. While the Pajero name disappears for only a few years, Mitsubishi’s local 4×4 lineup has continued with the Mitsubishi Pajero Sport, which remains on sale in Australia as a smaller, ladder-frame alternative below the former flagship.

The original Pajero, launched in 1982, became one of Mitsubishi’s defining models by combining serious off-road capability with everyday usability. Over four generations it sold more than 3.25 million units across more than 170 markets. Its reputation was cemented in motorsport, with the Pajero entering the Dakar Rally in 1983 and going on to secure 12 overall victories, including seven consecutive wins, to help establish its global reputation for durability and long-distance off-road performance.

The new-generation model will be based on a ladder-frame platform derived from the Mitsubishi Triton, with bespoke suspension and body development aimed at balancing off-road capability with improved on-road refinement.

Key rivals are expected to include the Toyota LandCruiser Prado, Ford Everest, Isuzu MU-X and Nissan Patrol, placing the revived Pajero squarely back into Australia’s competitive touring and off-road SUV segment.

A teaser published on Mitsubishi Japan’s website (↗) signals the brand’s intent, reading: “More than just a car. The Pajero demanded our patience – our obsession – every hour of every day until we got it right. We’ve poured everything we have into this moment: the innovation, the spirit, the relentless pursuit of something greater than before. For those who never stopped believing. To everyone just arriving.”

The world premiere is scheduled for Autumn 2026 in Japan (September to November). Local specification and on-sale timing for Australia is still to be confirmed.

MORE Mitsubishi news and reviews!