New Mitsubishi Pajero unveiled – and it’s coming to South Africa

Japanese carmaker Mitsubishi Motors has unveiled the all-new Pajero at its world premiere in Tokyo, confirming its eventual launch in 100 markets, including South Africa.

The Pajero was discontinued globally in 2021, but has since been completely redesigned to reclaim its position as the brand’s flagship offering.

Mitsubishi confirmed that the SUV, first introduced in 1982, became one of the brand’s most iconic models, and will be built in the Mitsubishi Motors production facility in Thailand.

Lerato Nonyane, General Manager: Product & Marketing at Mitsubishi Motors South Africa, said the model was always well loved by the South African public.

“It is the perfect vehicle for adventurers looking to explore our beautiful continent,” she added.

According to the carmaker, the new Pajero evolves the nameplate’s long-standing product philosophy, combining the confidence of its proven off-road capability with driver and passenger comfort.

“Building on this foundation, the all-new Pajero introduces a defining new dimension of prestige, which is expressed through the premium quality expected of a flagship model,” Mitsubishi said.

“In combination, these qualities represent a significant evolution across every aspect of the vehicle.”

It added that the SUV’s bold, commanding proportions, characterised by strong horizontal lines, are complemented by a functional, advanced and finely crafted interior.

Nonyane explained that the all-new Pajero is equipped with Mitsubishi’s Super-All Wheel Control (S-AWC), integrating acceleration control, cornering and braking to deliver precise and intuitive vehicle behaviour.

“Combined with a highly rigid, durable ladder frame and a carefully tuned suspension, these technologies will encourage drivers to enjoy travel with confidence on any road and be able to take the next step towards new adventures with peace of mind,” she said.

Local specifications, including pricing and trim lines, remain under wraps and will only be made known closer to the Pajero’s official launch – which also has yet to be confirmed.

What to expect

The design of the all-new Mitsubishi Pajero not only draws inspiration from previous generations, but also pays homage to them.

As a result, the new generation builds on the proportions and horizontal design theme from the first-generation model with sculpted body surfaces that aim to enhance its commanding presence.

It will also offer buyers a choice between two grille designs, including a horizontal-bar grille and a honeycomb grille, framed by distinctive T-shaped headlights.

Signature Pajero design elements appear throughout the SUV’s exterior, including the C-pillar inspired by the roll bar of the first-generation model and a hexagonal rear motif inspired by earlier generations’ rear-mounted spare tyre.

Inside, Mitsubishi has fitted the SUV with a horizontally oriented instrument panel, inspired by those of the first-generation Pajero, integrating two 14.3-inch screens with wireless smartphone connectivity.

Alongside the infotainment system are 12 speakers and a dual amplifier developed alongside Yamaha Corporation.

The spacious seven-seat cabin is finished in soft-touch materials across the instrument panel and door trims and features comprehensive sound insulation.

As a flagship SUV, the Pajero is also fitted with advanced preventative safety and driver-assistance technologies.

These include the Forward Collision Mitigation system (FCM) with pedestrian, cyclist, and motorcyclist detection and junction assist, Predictive Forward Collision Warning (PFCW), and Emergency Assist for Pedal Misapplication (EAPM).

Emergency Lane Assist (ELA) provides further driver assistance for the first time, joined by Front Cross Traffic Alert (FCTA) and the all-new MI-PILOT, Mitsubishi’s single-lane driving assistance system.

This system introduces Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) and Lane Keep Assist (LKA).

Additionally, the all-new Pajero is equipped with eight airbags, including Mitsubishi’s first SRS centre airbag to prevent front occupants from colliding with each other during a side-impact crash.

The SUV also features a 3D Multi Around Monitor that combines images from four cameras with a 3D model of the vehicle to provide a comprehensive view of its surroundings. 

The all-new Pajero will be powered by a specially developed 2.4-litre turbo-diesel engine that delivers 150kW and 480Nm – the same as the new Triton – which is paired with a newly developed eight-speed automatic transmission.

The SUV’s ladder frame features an independent double-wishbone front suspension setup and a newly developed five-link rigid rear axle for strong off-road capability.

Its S-AWC and SS4-II systems let drivers choose from four 4WD drive modes based on driving conditions, as well as seven selectable drive modes.

The new Pajero’s off-road credentials include 230mm ground clearance, a 30.4-degree approach angle, 22.6 degrees of ramp breakover, and a departure angle of 25.8 degrees.

Mitsubishi Pajero