The Mitsubishi Pajero, once hailed as the ‘King of the Desert,’ is reportedly set to make its long-awaited return. According to NHK Japan, Mitsubishi Motors is preparing to reintroduce the iconic SUV by December 2026 as part of efforts to strengthen sales in its home market. The all-new Pajero will reportedly be manufactured in Thailand and later imported into Japan.
First launched in 1982, the Pajero became a global symbol of rugged four-wheel-drive capability, playing a pivotal role in popularizing SUVs worldwide. Mitsubishi ended domestic sales of the model in 2019 with the fourth-generation version, citing weak demand and financial constraints. The dedicated production facility was subsequently shut down in 2021 and converted into a toilet paper factory, seemingly marking the end of the Pajero’s legacy.
The revival reflects Mitsubishi’s renewed focus on SUVs and off-road vehicles, underscored by the reintroduction of its Ralliart brand and its participation in the Asia Cross Country Rally (AXCR). Recent sightings of a large, camouflaged body-on-frame Mitsubishi SUV have fuelled speculation that the all-new Pajero is already in testing.
The timing of the comeback, however, presents challenges. Global automakers, including Mitsubishi, are grappling with tougher market conditions, while high U.S. tariffs on vehicles add further pressure.
If the Pajero relaunch proceeds as planned, it could mark a major turning point for Mitsubishi. Yet the return of such a storied model also brings high expectations, as the new Pajero will need to live up to the reputation that cemented its place in automotive history.
DON’T MISS | Toyota Tsusho Acquires 25% Stake in LG Chem’s Gumi Plant
