The Mitsubishi Pajero is finally making a comeback in Japan, and it seems buyers have been eagerly awaiting its return. The legendary off-roader has already attracted thousands of pre-orders, even though it won’t officially reach Japanese dealerships until December.
According to Mitsubishi Motors, approximately 5,500 customers placed orders for the all-new Pajero between October 1 and October 28. That’s particularly impressive considering the company had initially targeted just 4,000 sales for the entire fiscal year ending in March 2027.
The strong early response suggests Mitsubishi may have a winner on its hands, especially as traditional body-on-frame SUVs continue attracting enthusiasts. The new Pajero also marks the return of an important nameplate that disappeared from the Japanese market in 2019.
Known as the Montero in certain markets, the Pajero has a long history of tackling difficult terrain and competing in motorsport. Its latest incarnation aims to combine those rugged credentials with the comfort and technology expected from a modern flagship SUV.
Buyers Are Already Flocking To The New Pajero
Interestingly, Mitsubishi isn’t relying entirely on existing customers to generate interest in its new SUV. According to reports, nearly 80% of early buyers are switching from competing brands, while some former Mitsubishi owners are returning after years away.
The flagship Super Exceed trim has also proven especially popular, accounting for approximately 70% of pre-orders. It features semi-aniline leather upholstery, 20-inch alloy wheels, and a premium 12-speaker Yamaha audio system.
Japanese pricing starts at 6,193,000 yen, equivalent to approximately $40,000. The range includes four trims: GLS, GSR, Exceed, and Super Exceed.
Mitsubishi Hasn’t Forgotten The Pajero’s Off-Road Roots
Underneath its redesigned body, the Pajero rides on a rugged ladder-frame chassis shared with the Mitsubishi Triton pickup. Its Japanese-market powertrain consists of a turbocharged 2.4-liter diesel engine producing approximately 201 horsepower and 354 lb-ft of torque.
An eight-speed automatic transmission works alongside Mitsubishi’s Super Select 4WD-II system, which includes selectable four-wheel-drive settings and low-range gearing. Drivers also get seven terrain modes, including Gravel, Mud, Sand, Snow, and Rock.
Ground clearance reaches 230 mm on models equipped with 20-inch wheels. Combined with a reinforced chassis and capable suspension, the new Pajero promises genuine off-road ability.
A Promising Comeback For Mitsubishi
The new Pajero is already available in Thailand, with Japanese sales scheduled to begin on December 17. Mitsubishi also plans to expand availability to numerous international markets, although a United States launch is still unconfirmed.
For a company looking to strengthen its SUV lineup, the early demand is encouraging. Exceeding its annual sales target before launch is certainly an excellent start, so let’s hope the Pajero can maintain that momentum moving forward.