Mitsubishi Pajero Likely Coming Back To India- Brand Drops Big Hint!

Mitsubishi Pajero could be gearing up for a return, as Mitsubishi has hinted at introducing a new large SUV with strong off-road credentials later in 2026. While the company has not officially confirmed the name, the positioning and intent clearly point towards a revival of one of its most iconic nameplates in a modern form, but with a different and more modern guise in the same segment. While this announcement has enthusiasts on their toes, let's look at when and what to expect, but before that, make sure to join the 91wheels WhatsApp Community, specifically curated for petrolheads like us to keep up with the latest news and automotive updates.

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Mitsubishi Pajero Legacy & Comeback Signals

Senior leadership at Mitsubishi Motors has confirmed that a new 'cross-country' SUV is under development and is expected to be revealed within the year 2026. Although the exact name remains undisclosed, the upcoming model is expected to sit in the same space as the Pajero, and could possibly be the iconic nameplates' revival, combining rugged capability with long-distance comfort. This approach aligns with Mitsubishi's legacy of building durable SUVs that can handle demanding terrain while remaining practical for everyday use. The Pajero name holds strong recall globally and especially in markets like India, where models such as the Pajero, Montero, Lancer, and Cedia have built a loyal following.

Over time, however, the original Pajero faded away, with only the Pajero Sport continuing the lineage in some markets. Now, with fresh investment and renewed focus, Mitsubishi appears ready to reintroduce a full-size SUV that captures the essence of the original Pajero. Company executives have indicated that this new model will debut globally first, with other markets, including India, potentially following.

A key development supporting this comeback is Mitsubishi's collaboration with TVS Mobility. This partnership is aimed at strengthening the brand's presence in India by improving dealership networks, service infrastructure, and overall customer reach. While an India launch is not officially confirmed yet, these steps indicate a clear intention to re-establish Mitsubishi in the market, making the return of a flagship SUV more plausible.

Expected Platform & Powertrain

The upcoming Mitsubishi Pajero is likely to be built on a rugged ladder-frame chassis, potentially sharing its underpinnings with its other international models, powered by a 2.4-litre twin-turbo diesel engine paired with a 6-speed automatic gearbox and a four-wheel-drive system. This setup produces around 201 bhp and 470 Nm of torque, and a similar configuration could be offered on the new SUV as well. Such a combination would ensure strong off-road performance while maintaining highway usability. It will directly rival the Toyota Fortuner here in India, but it could be at a price disadvantage, as it will be a CBU unit.

The new Pajero-sized SUV is expected to make its global debut by the end of 2026. Market-specific launches, including India, could follow depending on the brand's expansion strategy.

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