2027 Mitsubishi Pajero: Iconic off-road SUV set to return

The Mitsubishi Pajero is officially returning, reviving one of the brand’s most recognisable SUVs five years after it disappeared from New Zealand.

The nameplate will return as a body-on-frame SUV based on the Triton ute, effectively replacing the Pajero Sport while dropping the ‘Sport’ suffix and reviving one of the Japanese brand's most iconic badges.

The Pajero was first introduced in New Zealand in 1982 and remained on sale across four generations before being discontinued in 2021.

While Mitsubishi New Zealand hasn’t officially confirmed the new Pajero for local showrooms, the SUV has already been locked in for Australia, due to launch before the end of 2026. CarExpert NZ understands a New Zealand launch will follow shortly after.

Earlier this month, Mitsubishi New Zealand announced plans to launch five new models this year, including the Outlander Sport HEV – the brand’s first conventional hybrid electric vehicle (HEV) to go on sale in New Zealand.

Although the new Pajero will share its ladder-frame platform with the Triton, Mitsubishi says it will feature “model-specific development of the cabin and front and rear suspension."

It’s expected to adopt a more comfort-focused suspension setup, while competing directly with four-wheel drive rivals like the Toyota Prado and Ford Everest.

A sole teaser image released by Mitsubishi also shows the Pajero will receive unique front-end styling, including a different LED light signature from the Triton.

Mitsubishi hasn’t confirmed powertrain details, though the new Pajero will likely to use the Triton’s 2.4-litre twin-turbo four-cylinder turbo-diesel engine, producing 150kW of power and 470Nm of torque.

The SUV is also likely to feature Mitsubishi’s Super Select II four-wheel drive system, allowing full-time four-wheel drive operation on sealed roads – a feature shared with higher-end Prado and Everest variants.

Pricing hasn’t yet been announced, though CarExpert Australia expects the new Pajero could start between A$60,000 (~NZ$72,200) and A$65,000 (~NZ$78,100) before on-road costs.

For context, the current Pajero Sport range in New Zealand is priced from $64,990, while comparable Australian variants stretch beyond A$67,000.

The new SUV is also expected to receive a significant technology and safety upgrade over the outgoing Pajero Sport, including a larger touchscreen infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, updated driver assistance systems, and a digital instrument cluster.

Mitsubishi says the all-new Pajero is being developed as a flagship SUV reflecting the company’s “spirit of adventure” and determination to take on new challenges.

First launched in 1982, the Pajero became famous for combining genuine off-road capability with passenger-car comfort. Across four generations, Mitsubishi sold more than 3.25 million examples globally across 170 markets.

The nameplate also built a formidable motorsport reputation, claiming 12 Dakar Rally victories, including seven consecutive wins.

Its return marks a significant moment for Mitsubishi in New Zealand, where the Pajero badge still carries strong recognition among off-road enthusiasts, towing buyers, and rural customers.