Mitsubishi Pajero is back on the drawing board, with the Japanese automaker unveiling a new ladder‑frame SUV that will first roll out of its Thailand plant later this year. The model targets markets that still value rugged, body‑on‑frame designs, and the company says it will eventually reach roughly 100 countries.
Launch schedule and regional rollout
The refreshed vehicle will debut in Thailand, where it is assembled, before moving on to Japan and Australia. Mitsubishi has confirmed those three markets, and the firm’s “Destination 2030” roadmap hints at a broader push that could include Latin America and the Middle East from 2027 onward. All images released so far show a right‑hand‑drive configuration, which makes a North‑American debut unlikely without a separate left‑hand‑drive version.
Historically, the nameplate has appeared in the United States under the “Montero” badge, so the possibility of a future adaptation cannot be ruled out entirely. Still, the current presentation suggests the company is concentrating on regions where boxy, off‑road‑oriented SUVs remain popular.
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Dimensions, powertrain and off‑road equipment
According to the filing, the new model measures 4,920 mm in length, 1,925 mm wide and 1,910 mm tall, putting it in the same size class as the Toyota Land Cruiser. Its ground clearance is listed at 230 mm (9.1 inches) and it boasts an approach angle exceeding 30 degrees, both indicators of serious off‑road intent.
Power comes from a 2.4‑liter turbocharged diesel paired with an eight‑speed automatic transmission. The drivetrain includes a low‑range gear set and a locking centre differential, features that should please enthusiasts who venture off paved roads.
The cabin can accommodate up to seven passengers across three rows. Standard equipment features tri‑zone climate control, a Yamaha‑branded audio system, active driving assists and a 3D around‑view camera suite. A novel “front under‑floor” camera aims to reveal terrain hidden beneath the bumper, a small but handy addition for tricky passages.
4,920 mm × 1,925 mm × 1,910 mm | 230 mm clearance | 30° approach | 2.4 L diesel | 8‑speed auto | 7‑seat capacity | 100‑country target | 2027 global rollout
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The numbers paint a picture of a vehicle that balances size and capability without venturing into the super‑large segment dominated by the Nissan Armada. Its more compact footprint could make it easier to maneuver in urban settings while still offering the durability expected on rough trails. If the brand can keep pricing competitive, it may find a niche among buyers who want both daily usability and weekend adventure potential.
Looking ahead, the market response in Thailand will likely shape how quickly Mitsubishi expands the model’s availability. Strong local sales could accelerate introductions to other right‑hand‑drive territories, while lukewarm reception might prompt the company to rethink its global ambitions. The strategy appears to hinge on the vehicle’s ability to deliver genuine off‑road performance without sacrificing modern comforts.
Comparisons and potential competition
When measured against the Land Cruiser, the new Mitsubishi offers similar dimensions.
