Mitsubishi Pajero comes back after 5-year hiatus; gets diesel-only powertrain

New Delhi:Mitsubishi has debuted the fifth-generation Pajero, with the nameplate making a return after five years since it was discontinued in 2021. Like the previous-generation model, the 2026 Pajero has a ladder-frame chassis and a four-wheel-drive (4WD) setup with a low-range transfer case. 

It is going to be offered only with a diesel engine and has a comparatively upgraded exterior and interior design. It is unlikely that the Pajero will be returning to India; the SUV had been in the market, debuting in 2002, having loads of model changes and quite a fan following before it was discontinued in 2018. 

Mitsubishi has not yet disclosed the maximum power output of the new Pajero’s 2.4-litre diesel engine. However, the brand has confirmed a peak torque figure of 480Nm. The engine is paired with an 8-speed torque-converter automatic transmission sending power via a four-wheel-drive system featuring four selectable modes.

The 4WD system offers 2H, which sends power to the rear wheels, and 4H for full-time four-wheel drive. There’s also a 4HLc with the centre differential locked, and 4LLc, which mixes a locked centre differential with low-range gearing.

Underneath, the SUV carries the use of a ladder-frame platform. Suspension duties are managed by an independent double-wishbone setup at the front and a five-link rigid axle at the rear. Mitsubishi has also equipped the Pajero with Active Yaw Control (AYC). This system uses braking at the front wheels to manage torque distribution between the left and right sides. Drivers can also choose from seven terrain and driving modes: Normal, Eco, Gravel, Snow, Mud, Sand and Rock.