A Legendary Nameplate Reborn
The global automotive community has been eagerly waiting for this moment. The legendary Mitsubishi Pajero, a household name in rugged off-roading, extreme reliability, and desert-conquering prowess, has made its triumphant return. Brought to you by team carmotocar , this comprehensive review deep dives into every single detail of the next-generation SUV.
For years, automotive enthusiasts feared that the true Pajero spirit might fade away or be permanently replaced by lighter, softer crossovers. However, Mitsubishi has proven that the spirit of true adventure is alive and well. Designed to challenge established heavyweights like the Toyota Land Cruiser Prado and the Ford Everest, the new Pajero combines classic ladder-frame toughness with ultra-modern digital technology, superior interior luxury, and enhanced powertrain efficiency.
Whether you are navigating difficult mountain trails, crossing open sand dunes, or cruising smoothly along highways, the new Mitsubishi Pajero promises an exceptional driving experience. In this detailed article, carmotocar breaks down the exterior design, chassis architecture, engine specs, towing capacities, interior comfort, off-road modes, and tech features that make this vehicle one of the most exciting automotive launches of the decade.
Exterior Design and Stance: Bold, Boxy, and Purposeful
At first glance, the new Mitsubishi Pajero makes a massive statement with its imposing presence and aggressive styling. Moving away from soft curves, Mitsubishi designers have embraced a boxy, muscular silhouette that pays homage to classic off-roaders while incorporating sleek modern lighting elements and bold bodylines.
Front Fascia and Lighting
The front end features a distinct horizontal slated grille designed specifically for tough global markets, giving it a broad and dominant visual stance. High-set LED headlights frame the front fascia, flanked by modern daytime running lights (DRLs) that ensure high visibility in harsh weather conditions. For off-road enthusiasts looking to venture into remote terrain, aftermarket accessories such as integrated Lightforce lighting bars, heavy-duty bullbars, and reinforced skid plates seamlessly integrate with the front architecture.
Proportions and Dimensions
In terms of overall sizing and road presence, the new Pajero stands nearly as wide and tall as full-sized 300 Series land cruisers, while maintaining a slightly shorter overall length. This design choice enhances maneuverability in tight city environments or technical off-road tracks without compromising cabin space or road presence.
- Overall Width & Height: Comparable to full-size 4x4 SUVs.
- Wheel Options: Comes standard with rugged 18-inch alloy wheels wrapped in durable all-terrain tires.
- Body Highlights: Prominent 'Pajero' side lettering, sturdy metal side steps for easy cabin access, and functional wheel arch cladding.
Rear Styling and Practicality
At the back, the vehicle features striking LED tail lamps that create a signature light pattern during night driving.
A power tailgate provides effortless access to the rear cargo area. The rear bumper is designed with optimized
departure angles to prevent scraping when stepping off sharp inclines or rocks.
Platform and Chassis Engineering: Not Just a Rebadged Triton
One of the biggest questions surrounding the new Pajero is its underlying architecture. While it shares foundational engineering roots with the Triton utility platform, team carmotocar can confirm that the Pajero is far more than just an SUV version of a pickup truck.
Heavily Revised Ladder-Frame Architecture
Mitsubishi engineers have completely overhauled the chassis specifically for the Pajero. Only the front section of the heavy-duty ladder frame is shared with the Triton; the remaining frame structure has been heavily revised or completely redesigned from the ground up. This structural upgrade provides:
- Increased Torsional Rigidity: Reducing body flex during extreme articulation off-road.
- Improved Noise, Vibration, and Harshness (NVH): Delivering a plush, limousine-like ride on tarmac.
- Enhanced Passenger Safety: Absorbing impact energy far more effectively in multi-directional collisions.
Advanced Suspension Setup
To balance heavy-duty off-road durability with everyday family comfort, the Pajero abandons traditional, stiff leaf-spring rear suspension setups. Instead, it features:
- Front Suspension: Double wishbone independent suspension delivering sharp steering response and excellent tire contact.
- Rear Suspension: A specialized 5-link multi-link rear suspension setup engineered for long wheel travel and maximum comfort over severe bumps.
Powertrain, Transmission, and 3.5-Ton Towing Power
Under the bonnet, the new Mitsubishi Pajero houses a refined and upgraded 2.4-liter turbo-diesel engine that balances low-end torque with strict environmental compliance.
| Feature | Specification Details |
| Engine Type | 2.4-Liter Turbo-Diesel Inline-4 |
| Power Output | 150 kW |
| Torque Output | 480 Nm |
| Emissions Standard | Euro 6d Compliant (requires AdBlue) |
| Transmission | Brand-New 8-Speed Automatic Transmission |
| Towing Capacity | 3,500 kg (3.5 Tonnes) Braked Towing |
Variable Geometry Turbocharger (VGT)
Unlike earlier dual-turbo or fixed-geometry setups, Mitsubishi has fitted this upgraded 2.4L diesel block with an advanced variable valve geometry single-turbo system. The moving vanes inside the turbocharger adjust dynamically depending on engine RPM and throttle input. This eliminates turbo lag at low speeds while maintaining linear, effortless acceleration during high-speed highway overtaking maneuvers.
8-Speed Automatic Gearbox
Replacing the aging 6-speed automatic of the previous generation, the new 8-speed automatic torque-converter gearbox offers significantly smoother gear transitions, lower highway engine speeds, and better overall fuel economy. The extra gear ratios allow the engine to remain in its optimal powerband for longer periods, whether crawling up a steep hill or hauling heavy loads.
Heavy-Duty Towing Capability
Towing capability is a crucial metric for any serious 4x4 buyer. While older Triton-derived models were restricted to around 3.0 tons, the new Pajero features an official maximum towbar capacity of 3,500 kg (3.5 tons). This makes it an ideal rig for towing heavy caravan trailers, boat trailers, or horse floats effortlessly.
Off-Road Capability: The Super Select 4WD System
At the heart of the Pajero's legend is its off-road drivability. Team carmotocar is thrilled to report that Mitsubishi has retained and upgraded its world-renowned Super Select 4WD-II system.
4WD Modes Explained
- 2H (Two-Wheel Drive High Range): Drives power exclusively to the rear wheels for maximum fuel efficiency on dry tarmac.
- 4H (Full-Time Four-Wheel Drive High Range): Uses a center differential to distribute power safely between front and rear axles, allowing permanent 4WD driving on paved surfaces and wet highways without drivetrain binding.
- 4HLc (Four-Wheel Drive High Range with Locked Center Differential): Locks power 50/50 between front and rear axles for loose dirt, gravel, and snow tracks.
- 4LLc (Four-Wheel Drive Low Range with Locked Center Differential): Engages crawler low-range gearing and locks the center differential for technical rock crawling, steep gradients, and deep mud.
Selectable Off-Road Driving Modes & Locking Diffs
Complementing the mechanical Super Select hardware is a sophisticated terrain response management system featuring up to eight distinct off-road drive modes . These electronic modes recalibrate throttle sensitivity, traction control intervention, transmission shift points, and braking control to match specific surfaces such as Sand, Mud, Rock, Snow, and Gravel.
Furthermore, for hardcore off-road recovery scenarios, the Pajero features a selectable rear differential lock as standard equipment. When engaged alongside 4LLc low-range, all four wheels turn in unison, pushing the vehicle out of the most challenging terrain.
Interior Design: Luxury, Comfort, and Technology
Stepping inside the cabin reveals an atmosphere that rivals high-end luxury SUVs. Mitsubishi has focused heavily on upgrading interior materials, soft-touch surfaces, acoustic insulation, and overall ergonomic layout.
Premium Cabin Materials
Gone are the hard, cheap plastics of entry-level utility vehicles. The Pajero interior boasts soft-touch leatherette trims along the dashboard, door cards, and center console sides. Plush stitched leather seats offer exceptional support during long distance touring.
Driver Ergonomics and Controls
- Traditional Gear Shifter: A solid, tactile gear lever provides intuitive control over the transmission.
- Physical Climate Controls: Mitsubishi wisely retained physical switches, buttons, and dials for temperature and fan controls, allowing drivers to adjust air conditioning settings easily without taking their eyes off the road.
- Pajero Grab Handles: Iconic sturdy grab handles built into the A-pillars and dash, giving passengers stability during heavy off-road driving.
- Steering Wheel: A multi-function leather-wrapped wheel housing controls for adaptive cruise control, media playback, and trip meter displays.
Infotainment and Yamaha Premium Audio
Dominating the center dashboard are monolithic digital displays housing the main infotainment and digital instrument cluster.
- Nostalgic Off-Road Gauges: A special nod to Pajero heritage includes digital readouts for vehicle pitch, roll angles, altitude, and compass headings displayed right on the central screen.
- Yamaha Premium Sound System: In partnership with world-renowned audio engineer Yamaha, the Pajero features a high-fidelity speaker sound system that delivers crisp highs, deep bass, and immersive interior acoustic quality.
- Wireless Connectivity: Built-in wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, fast-charging USB-C ports, and a dedicated wireless phone charging pad keep all devices powered.
Seating Layout, Space, and 7-Seat Practicality
Family buyers will appreciate the Pajero’s flexible 3-row, 7-passenger seating configuration.
Second-Row Comfort
The second row provides generous legroom, knee room, and headroom, easily accommodating adults over six feet tall. The second-row bench slides forward and back on rails, allowing passengers to adjust legroom according to third-row requirements.
- Dedicated Rear Climate Controls: A third climate zone with digital fan controls and dedicated ceiling-mounted air vents keeps rear passengers comfortable.
- Power Outlets: Integrated USB-C fast-charging ports and a household 220V power socket allow rear passengers to charge laptops and camping equipment.
Third-Row Usability
Access to the third row has been significantly redesigned for easier ingress and egress. The second-row seats fold and tumble forward smoothly. Once inside, the third row offers respectable space for children or medium-sized adults during shorter journeys. When not in use, the third-row seats fold flat into the cargo floor to create a massive, wide boot area for luggage, camping gear, or tools.
Competitive Analysis: Pajero vs. Land Cruiser Prado vs. Ford Everest
To understand where the new Mitsubishi Pajero sits in the marketplace, carmotocar has compiled a detailed comparison against its key competitors:
| Feature | Mitsubishi Pajero | Toyota Prado | Ford Everest |
| Engine | 2.4L Turbo-Diesel | 2.8L Turbo-Diesel | 2.0L Bi-Turbo / 3.0L V6 |
| Power / Torque | 150 kW / 480 Nm | 150 kW / 500 Nm | 154 kW / 500 Nm |
| Transmission | 8-Speed Auto | 8-Speed Auto | 10-Speed Auto |
| 4WD System | Super Select 4WD-II | Full-Time 4WD | Full-Time 4WD |
| Rear Suspension | 5-Link Multi-Link | 4-Link Rigid Axle | Watt's Linkage Coil |
| Max Towing | 3,500 kg | 3,500 kg | 3,500 kg |
| Seating Capacity | 7 Seats | 7 Seats | 7 Seats |
As seen in the comparison table, the Mitsubishi Pajero matches or exceeds its key rivals across crucial performance metrics. With its refined 8-speed transmission, Super Select 4WD system, and competitive pricing strategy, the Pajero poses a major threat to Toyota's dominance in the 4x4 segment.
Ownership Experience, Fuel Economy, and Maintenance
Beyond raw numbers and off-road capability, prospective buyers must consider long-term ownership costs, fuel economy, and day-to-day drivability.
Real-World Fuel Efficiency
The combination of Euro 6d emission compliance, an upgraded variable-geometry turbocharger, and an 8-speed automatic transmission helps the new Pajero achieve impressive fuel consumption figures for a heavy ladder-frame SUV.
- City Driving: Highly efficient gear shifting keeps engine RPM low during stop-and-go urban traffic.
- Highway Cruising: The top overdrive gears allow the 2.4-liter turbo-diesel engine to rest at low RPM at high speeds, significantly conserving fuel on long family road trips.
AdBlue and Emissions System
To meet modern global emissions standards, the Pajero is equipped with an AdBlue Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR) system. The AdBlue filler port is conveniently located next to the diesel fuel cap. While this requires filling the AdBlue fluid periodically, it results in drastically reduced nitrogen oxide (NOx) emissions, making the Pajero one of the cleanest diesel 4x4s in its segment.
Build Quality and Reliability Expectation
Mitsubishi has long built its reputation on durability under harsh conditions. From the Australian Outback to Saharan dunes, Pajeros have proven their mechanical toughness over decades. The heavy-duty ladder frame, combined with reinforced underbody bash plates and high-grade drivetrain components, guarantees that the new Pajero can endure thousands of miles of heavy off-roading without major mechanical issues.
Safety Systems and Driver Assistance Technology
Safety is paramount for modern family adventure vehicles. The new Mitsubishi Pajero comes equipped with a comprehensive suite of active safety technologies designed to prevent collisions and protect occupants on and off the road.
- Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB): Detects vehicles, pedestrians, and cyclists ahead, automatically applying brakes to prevent impacts.
- Lane Keep Assist and Departure Warning: Keeps the vehicle centered on highway lanes during long-distance driving.
- Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop & Go: Maintains a safe preset distance from preceding traffic in both heavy highway traffic and open road cruising.
- Blind Spot Monitoring & Rear Cross-Traffic Alert: Warns drivers of hidden vehicles when changing lanes or reversing out of parking spaces.
- 360-Degree Surround-View Camera: Uses high-definition external cameras to provide a bird's-eye view of the vehicle's surroundings, making tight off-road maneuvers and trailer hitching effortless.
- Hill Descent Control (HDC) & Hill Start Assist (HSA): Automatically controls braking pressure when descending steep, slippery gradients or starting on sharp inclines.
Conclusion and Verdict by Team carmotocar
The new Mitsubishi Pajero is a triumphant return for one of the auto industry's most beloved 4x4 nameplates. By taking a rugged ladder-frame base, completely re-engineering the suspension, introducing a smooth 8-speed transmission, and filling the interior with modern luxury and tech, Mitsubishi has produced a formidable off-roader.
Pros:
- Bold, striking boxy design with great road presence.
- Advanced Super Select 4WD system with rear differential lock.
- Full 3,500 kg (3.5-ton) braked towing capacity.
- Luxurious interior with soft-touch trims and Yamaha audio.
- Excellent 7-seat cabin versatility with independent rear climate controls.
Cons:
- Requires periodic AdBlue refills due to Euro 6d emission regulations.
- Tight luggage space when all 7 seats are fully upright.
Team carmotocar believes that for drivers seeking an authentic, heavy-duty 4x4 that can handle demanding off-road trails on weekends while serving as a comfortable, quiet family cruiser during the week, the new Mitsubishi Pajero is a top-tier choice. The legend is truly back!
