Mitsubishi Motors Corporation (MMC) has announced that its all-new cross-country SUV will be named Pajero and will be unveiled at a world premiere scheduled for autumn 2026. The model was discontinued in overseas markets in 2021, making this its first return to the global market in five years.

First launched in 1982, the Pajero was developed as a recreational vehicle (RV, now widely known as an SUV) with a new concept that combined the off-road performance of a full-fledged four-wheel-drive (4WD) vehicle with the comfort of a passenger car. Across four generations, the model became one of Mitsubishi Motors' most iconic cross-country SUVs, with cumulative global sales of more than 3.25 million units in over 170 countries and regions worldwide.

The Pajero was well known for competing in the Dakar Rally - the world’s most demanding rally – starting in 1983, securing a total of 12 victories, including seven consecutive wins. Through these achievements, the model established a reputation for solid off-road performance, handling stability, and durability as a cross-country SUV.

In Japan, the Pajero led the RV boom of the 1990s and played a key role in promoting outdoor and leisure lifestyles, with the series expanding to include the Pajero Mini kei-car, Pajero Junior compact SUV, and the Pajero iO compact SUV.

Set to make its world premiere this autumn, the all-new Pajero is based on the highly robust ladder frame of the Triton pickup truck, with model-specific development of the cabin and front and rear suspension. The all-new Pajero is being developed as a new flagship model, MMC says.