Worst-kept secret of 2026: Mitsubishi is bringing back the Pajero name.

This is the first new generation of Pajero since production of the fourth-generation NS-series ended in 2021, and will also fill a void left by the Pajero Sport which was discontinued in 2025. It is set to arrive in 2027.

A global ‘teaser’ campaign for the fifth-generation Pajero show it will take on a bigger, boxier shape and go back to the body-on-chassis format of earlier generations. A hybrid powertrain has also been confirmed.

This new Pajero will be the first in two generations to be based on a ladder-frame chassis, after the third-generation model switched to a unibody (monocoque) design with an integrated ladder frame for increased torsional rigidity.

The platform is expected to be a heavily modified version of the current Triton ute’s, fitted with multi-link coil-sprung – rather than leaf-sprung – rear suspension.

It’s likely the new Pajero will launch with a version of the Triton’s 2.4-litre bi-turbo four-cylinder diesel engine which produces 150kW of power at 3500rpm and 470Nm of torque between 1500-2750rpm.

In what will be a first for the Pajero, Mitsubishi’s new flagship SUV will also be available with a hybrid powertrain.

Mitsubishi has been developing hybrid and electric powertrains suitable for 4WD use since 2023.  At the time, the company said it didn't see a lot of demand for PHEV utes, but the market has changed since then with the release of the plug-in hybrid BYD Shark 6 dual-cab, several PHEV versions of the top-selling Ford Ranger as well as the GWM Cannon Alpha PHEV.

The new Pajero will be revealed in Tokyo on September 2.