The Mitsubishi Pajero Is Back and Debuts Across Multiple Markets

Mitsubishi has officially unveiled the revived Pajero SUV during an online presentation. The new model will launch first in Thailand, where it will also be built. Mitsubishi then plans to introduce the SUV in Japan, Australia, other ASEAN markets, South America and the Middle East.

As expected, the new Mitsubishi Pajero is built around a body-on-frame chassis that uses high-strength steel in key areas. Mitsubishi has also increased the cross-sectional size of the frame to improve resistance to bending and twisting.

The front suspension uses an independent double-wishbone design, while the rear gets a five-link setup combined with a solid axle. The new Pajero measures 193.7 inches long, 75.8 inches wide and 75.2 inches tall, with a 113.0-inch wheelbase. Ground clearance is 9.1 inches, while the approach and departure angles measure 22.6 and 25.8 degrees, respectively.

The SUV's exterior follows Mitsubishi's latest design language while paying tribute to the iconic Pajero models of previous generations. The headlights are recessed into the front fascia to help protect them from damage caused by branches and rocks. Buyers will be offered two grille designs, one featuring horizontal slats and another using a mesh pattern.

Power comes from a 2.4-liter turbo-diesel engine producing 354 lb-ft of torque. The engine is paired with a new eight-speed automatic transmission and Mitsubishi's Super Select 4WD-II system.

The four-wheel-drive system allows the driver to switch between rear-wheel drive and four-wheel drive, while also providing a center differential lock and low-range gearing. The Pajero also gets Mitsubishi's S-AWC active stability and traction-control system, along with seven drive modes for different conditions, including gravel, snow, sand, mud and rocks.

Inside, the Pajero features a large four-spoke steering wheel, a substantial center console with a conventional gear lever and transfer-case selector, and a pair of 14.3-inch displays.

The center infotainment screen can also display a digital version of the famous Pajero multi-information meter, complete with simulated analog-style gauges. The system shows information such as a compass, altitude, body roll angles and outside temperature.

The infotainment system is complemented by a 360-degree camera system with a "transparent hood" view. This feature can show the area immediately in front of the SUV and activates automatically when one of the off-road drive modes is selected.

The Pajero will come standard with a three-row interior. The second-row seats can slide forward and backward by up to 5.9 inches. The seats will also offer ventilation, while the climate-control system features three-zone temperature control.

In keeping with the Pajero's flagship positioning, the cabin features leather upholstery, a 12-speaker Yamaha audio system and a comprehensive selection of driver-assistance features designed for both highway and urban driving.

Mitsubishi has not yet said whether the new Pajero will be sold in the United States.