by Mitsubishi showed the new Pajero to selected customers
Mitsubishi is gradually preparing the return of the Pajero this fall with a teaser campaign that works better than most others. After showcasing the light signature and triple digital instruments of its flagship SUV, the automaker held a secret preview event in Japan, likely to gauge the reaction of loyal fans.
The event took place at Star Camp 2026, held on May 30 at Asagiri Kogen. Mitsubishi invited a specially selected group of Pajero owners and enthusiasts into a room, where it unveiled what appears to be a prototype close to the production version.
The reactions look genuinely sincere. One participant mentioned that the original Pajero was the first car he drove after getting his license and admitted it was hard to imagine what the new generation would look like after so many years.
Another called the SUV “cooler than expected,” while others noted the wheel design and how it balances off-road ruggedness with premium sophistication.
Interior and cabin impressions
Guests also had the chance to peek inside the cabin, which featured a beige color scheme. They emerged talking about the soft-touch materials, spaciousness, and a premium feel that they believe will suit both challenging off-road terrains and daily commutes equally well.
One long-time owner said that despite all the changes of the modern era, the car is still “unmistakably a Pajero at heart.” Another simply wanted to take the prototype and drive off.
Leaked trim level information
According to CarsGuide, Australian certification documents confirm four trim levels: GLX, GLS, Exceed, and GSR. Judging by the rest of Mitsubishi’s lineup, the GLX and GLS are expected to be practicality-oriented, the Exceed focused on luxury, and the GSR on aggressive styling and serious off-road equipment.
A top-tier Pajero Ralliart version may also appear in the future, leveraging the name’s illustrious history in the Dakar Rally.
A solid foundation
Under the hood, the new Pajero is based on a body-on-frame architecture derived from the Triton pickup truck, but with bespoke developments for the body structure and suspension. With these improvements, Mitsubishi promises “outstanding off-road capability” as well as “refined and comfortable driving.”
Some reports suggest that the turbo-diesel from the Triton will carry over to the new model, but an electrified layout seems more likely. Mitsubishi has committed to launching five self-charging hybrids and five plug-in hybrids over the next six years.
The new Pajero will debut globally in the fall of 2026, with deliveries in Australia starting before Christmas. North America will have to wait until 2030, when it will appear under the Montero badge. Its targets are the Toyota Land Cruiser 300 Series and the Nissan Patrol.
The return of the Pajero is not just the launch of another SUV, but a strategic move by Mitsubishi to strengthen its position in a segment dominated by legendary competitors. The secret fan preview indicates that the company aims to maintain a connection with its audience and take their expectations into account. The choice of a body-on-frame construction and potential electrification point to an attempt to blend traditional ruggedness with modern demands for environmental friendliness and comfort. Given the plans for hybrid versions, the new Pajero could become a significant player in the market, offering an alternative to the Land Cruiser and Patrol with an emphasis on efficiency and modern technology.
