Mitsubishi Motors is preparing to shake up the global off-road SUV market with the return of the Pajero nameplate. The all-new Mitsubishi Pajero 2026 is expected to make its world premiere in the third quarter of 2026.
The new model is being watched for a possible Japan debut around September, followed quickly by a Thailand launch around October 2026. It is positioned as a new flagship SUV carrying the spirit of Mitsubishi’s 12-time Dakar Rally-winning heritage.
All-New Pajero 2026 and its new role in Thailand
For Thailand and global markets, the all-new Mitsubishi Pajero 2026 is expected to take over the role previously held by Pajero Sport, moving the nameplate into a more premium global-model position.
Thailand is expected to play a key production role, with Mitsubishi’s Laem Chabang manufacturing base supporting both local sales and exports. In some markets, the model may continue to use the Montero or Shogun names.
Frame chassis and expected powertrain
The all-new Mitsubishi Pajero 2026 is expected to use a durable frame-chassis architecture related to the latest Mitsubishi Triton, but with dedicated engineering changes for smoother ride quality, better control stability and a more premium cabin feel.
The main diesel powertrain is expected to be a 2.4-liter four-cylinder bi-turbo Hyper Power engine producing 204 hp and 470 Nm of torque. It is expected to be paired with a new 8-speed automatic transmission, Super Select 4WD-II full-time four-wheel drive and a differential lock.
Mitsubishi is also expected to study plug-in hybrid and hybrid powertrain options to support tighter future emissions standards and export-market requirements.
Suspension, off-road capability and design
The front and rear suspension setups are expected to be redesigned to move away from the harsher feel of commercial-vehicle-based SUVs, while still preserving the toughness and off-road capability associated with the Pajero name.
Key expected capability figures include up to 3,500 kg of towing capacity and up to 800 mm of water-wading ability. The exterior is expected to keep a strong boxy SUV form, with a new T-shaped headlight signature previewed in the teaser images.
The cabin is expected to offer a spacious layout, premium sound-insulation materials, a touchscreen infotainment system, a digital instrument display and advanced driver-assistance safety technology.
Bangkok Motorhaus Perspective
This is a major strategic shift for Mitsubishi Motors Thailand. Replacing Pajero Sport with the all-new Pajero would move the brand beyond the familiar PPV image and revive a legendary nameplate as a more premium global off-road SUV.
Using Thailand as an export production hub would also be significant. Local assembly could help Mitsubishi price the model more competitively than an imported SUV, while supporting parts availability and long-term aftersales confidence.
From an engineering perspective, a 2.4-liter bi-turbo diesel, 8-speed automatic transmission and Super Select 4WD-II would directly address long-distance refinement and efficiency. If the expected 3.5-ton towing capacity and 800 mm water-wading ability are confirmed, Pajero would return as a serious off-road SUV rather than a luxury-only lifestyle model.
