All-new Mitsubishi Pajero caught testing overseas: Can it challenge the Toyota Fortuner?
The Mitsubishi Pajero was one of the most iconic nameplates in the full-size SUV space, and it appears to be making a comeback after being discontinued for nearly half a decade. A heavily camouflaged test mule has been spotted on the roads in Southern Europe, and it is expected to bring back the moniker in a revamped package with an updated design, fresh interiors, and several powertrain options.
Mitsubishi introduced the Pajero to the Indian market around 2002 as part of a joint venture with Hindustan Motors, which was responsible for its assembly on our shores. In 2012, the joint venture brought in the Mitsubishi Pajero Sport, a mid-size version of the SUV. Despite its popularity among enthusiasts, Mitsubishi discontinued the ladder-frame SUV in India in 2020 due to increasingly stringent emissions regulations. In 2021, the Pajero was taken off the global market altogether.
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The Japanese manufacturer is now gearing up to roll out the next-gen Pajero, and it will likely arrive in India, taking up competition with the Toyota Fortuner. The test mule seems to be nearly production-ready, and the final model is expected to debut before the end of 2025. Mitsubishi Pajero: Design The next-gen Pajero retains the characteristic boxy profile with a tall stance and an upright front end.
The next-gen Pajero retains its boxy silhouette from the previous models while carrying forward a range of exterior design tweaks. The latest spy shots showcase a tall stance with an upright front end that features vertically stacked LED DRLs flanking a wide grille. The SUV further features a large skid plate, a clamshell bonnet design, and updated bumpers.
The new Pajero will ride on a revamped set of alloys, which are likely to be 19-inch or 20-inch options. The rear end is reminiscent of the Nissan Patrol with a slim, rectangular rear window, connected LED taillights, and an oversized skid plate that doubles up as the rear diffuser.
Also Read : Mercedes-AMG CLE 53 Coupe arrives in India on August 12. Here's all you should know… Mitsubishi Pajero: Interior
The interior details have not been revealed yet, but the Pajero is expected to bring a modern, updated cabin with new upholstery and a broad range of creature comforts. Features may include ventilated seats, a larger infotainment and gauge cluster setup. Mitsubishi is additionally expected to equip the upcoming SUV with an ADAS suite of safety features. Mitsubishi Pajero: Engine and performance Mitsubishi may offer the upcoming Pajero with a range of engine options, including turbo-diesel and plug-in hybrid units.
The choice of powertrain offered within the next-gen Mitsubishi Pajero may likely come down to the SUV's platform. If it returns in its ladder-frame guise, it is likely to be built on the Mitsubishi Triton's chassis and will carry the 2.4-litre turbodiesel engine that makes up to 201 bhp. Few reports suggest that the upcoming Pajero may be based on the Outlander's CMF-C/D monocoque architecture. In this case, the SUV is likely to be equipped with a plug-in hybrid powertrain, delivering up to 302 bhp.
Check out Upcoming Cars in India 2025, Best SUVs in India.
First Published Date: 18 Jul 2025, 10:45 am IST
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