2027 Mitsubishi Pajero Revealed the Legendary SUV Returns

Mitsubishi Has Officially Unveiled the All New Pajero

Mitsubishi has done it.

After a five-year absence, one of the most legendary off-road SUVs in UAE history is officially back.

On September 2, 2026, Mitsubishi Motors unveiled the all new fifth generation Pajero at its world premiere in Tokyo. This is a completely reimagined Pajero positioned as Mitsubishi new flagship SUV and the start of a bold new chapter for the brand.

For UAE buyers, this is one of the most important SUV launches of the year. The Pajero has been a fixture on UAE roads for decades. It is one of the most trusted family SUVs in the Emirates, one of the most commonly used SUVs in Dubai and one of the most respected off-road nameplates ever built.

The new Pajero brings serious changes. A completely new ladder frame platform derived from the Triton pickup. A premium seven-seat interior. Advanced Super Select 4WD-II and S-AWC technology. And a design that pays direct tribute to the original 1982 Pajero while embracing modern flagship SUV positioning.

This launch will also reshape the SUV market in the UAE, including the used cars in Dubai segment where existing Pajero Sport and other mid-size off road SUV values will be affected as the new model approaches.

Quote From Mitsubishi Motors President

Keisuke Kishiura President and Chief Operating Officer of Mitsubishi Motors on the new Pajero.

Under our Mid to Long Term Vision for the 2030s we aim to enhance customer satisfaction and corporate value by developing distinctive products and strengthening our brand while further reinforcing what makes Mitsubishi Motors unique.

The all new Pajero is the first model to bring this vision to life. As our flagship model it will lead not only to the Pajero series to follow but the entire Mitsubishi Motors lineup.

Evolved with a new level of refinement, the all new Pajero is a premium cross-country SUV that drivers can rely on in any situation. We will introduce the model to markets around the world in phases, and we hope customers will look forward to its arrival.

Quick Specs Table

Here is the complete specification overview before diving into the details.

Specification	Details
Model	All-New 5th Generation Mitsubishi Pajero
Design	Concept Grand Charisma (inspired by Japanese kendo)
Platform	Ladder-frame (derived from Mitsubishi Triton/L200)
Global Launch Engine	2.4L turbo-diesel with VGT
Estimated Power	Around 204 hp
Torque	480 Nm (470 Nm on select specs)
Transmission	New 8-speed automatic with Sport mode
4WD System	Super Select 4WD-II (SS4-II) + S-AWC
Drive Modes	Normal, Eco, Gravel, Snow, Mud, Sand, Rock
Seating	7 seats (3 rows)
Weight Distribution	52:48 front to rear
Central Display	14.3 inch (12.3 inch on lower trims)
Airbags	8 (first Mitsubishi with SRS centre airbag)
Audio System	12-speaker Yamaha Dynamic Sound Ultimate
Highway Assist	MI-PILOT (Adaptive Cruise + Lane Keep Assist)
Built In	Mitsubishi Motors Thailand plant
Global Debut	September 2, 2026 (Tokyo)
First Markets	Thailand, then Japan and Australia (FY 2026)
UAE Availability	Expected late 2027 to 2028
UAE Engine Expected	Petrol (diesel unlikely for GCC market)
Expected UAE Price	Around AED 150,000 to 220,000
UAE Distributor	Al Habtoor Motors

The Pajero Heritage Why This Return Matters

The Pajero name carries incredible weight.

Pajero heritage in numbers:

Introduced in 1982
Total production across four generations exceeds 3.29 million units
Sold in more than 170 countries and regions
One of Mitsubishi Motors most iconic models ever built
Motorsport pedigree
12 total Dakar Rally victories
7 consecutive Dakar wins between 2001 and 2007
One of the most successful off road competition vehicles in history

The Pajero built its reputation on combining serious off-road capability with passenger car comfort. It became an especially popular choice in the UAE where the mix of highway driving desert weekends and family duty demanded exactly that combination.

The new fifth generation Pajero is designed to carry all of that forward while adding a genuine premium
flagship feel.

A Completely New Ladder Frame Platform

Previous Pajero generations used monocoque construction.

The new Pajero goes back to a proper ladder frame.

Platform details:

Highly rigid ladder frame derived from the latest Mitsubishi Triton and L200 pickup
Extensively reworked specifically for the Pajero
Expanded use of high tensile steel for weight reduction
Increased frame cross sectional area for higher torsional and bending rigidity
Better durability and reliability

Why it matters:

Ladder frame construction is the gold standard for serious off-road SUVs
Same construction philosophy as the Toyota Land Cruiser Prado and Nissan Patrol
Better long-term strength for repeated off road use
Better towing capability
Better ability to handle rough terrain punishment

Mitsubishi has essentially built the Pajero to compete more directly with the Land Cruiser Prado than with the smaller Pajero Sport.

Suspension System New Five Link Rear Axle

Alongside the new ladder frame, Mitsubishi has also developed a new suspension setup.

Suspension details:

Independent double wishbone front suspension
Newly developed five link rigid rear axle
Rear uses coil springs (replacing the Triton work focused leaf springs)
Specifically tuned to keep tyres in contact with the road
Strengthened body mounts to suppress vibrations on rough roads

What it delivers:

Off road capability with durability and articulation
Better ride quality on paved roads than a typical body on frame SUV
Natural steering feel
Flat composed ride
Better handling stability

Mitsubishi established an off-road comfort development benchmark for this SUV. Balancing off road performance and road refinement was a specific design priority, not an afterthought.

Dimensions and Off-Road Angles

The new Pajero is properly sized for a flagship SUV.

Dimension	Measurement
Length	4,920 mm
Width	1,925 mm
Height	1,910 mm (with 20-inch tyres)
Wheelbase	2,870 mm
Front and Rear Track	1,630 mm
Ground Clearance	230 mm
Approach Angle	30.4 degrees
Ramp Breakover Angle	22.6 degrees
Departure Angle	25.8 degrees

Size comparison:

Approximately 95 mm longer than the outgoing Pajero Sport
110 mm wider than the outgoing Pajero Sport
75 mm taller than the outgoing Pajero Sport
70 mm longer wheelbase than the outgoing Pajero Sport
Slightly smaller than the current Toyota Land Cruiser Prado
Considerably more substantial than the Pajero Sport it effectively replaces

The 230 mm ground clearance combined with 30.4-degree approach angle and 25.8-degree departure angle places the Pajero firmly in serious desert capability territory. Ideal for UAE dunes and rocky wadis.

Engine Global Launch 2.4L Turbo Diesel with 8 Speed Automatic

At launch the new Pajero uses only one engine globally.

Engine details:

Newly developed 2.4 litre four-cylinder clean diesel
Single variable geometry turbocharger (VGT)
Maximum torque 480 Nm (470 Nm on select specs)
Estimated power around 204 hp
Strong responsive acceleration from standstill through to high-speed driving

Transmission details:

New 8 speed automatic with Sport mode
Smooth seamless gear changes
Better refinement than the previous 6 speed automatic
Better crawling capability off road
More flexible performance in all driving conditions

Important Note UAE Will Likely Get a Petrol Version

This is critical for UAE buyers.

The launch diesel engine is unlikely to come to the UAE.

Why not:

Thailand, Australia and several Southeast Asian markets have strong demand for diesel SUVs
The UAE and other GCC countries remain predominantly petrol driven markets
Diesel demand in the GCC is limited outside of commercial vehicles
Petrol infrastructure is universally available

What UAE buyers are likely to get:

A 2.4 litre four-cylinder petrol engine related to the unit offered in some L200 variants
Mitsubishi could retune it for more power
Possibly turbocharged to suit the Pajero larger body and flagship positioning

The familiar 3.0 litre MIVEC V6 that powered previous GCC Pajeros is unlikely due to end of lifecycle and emissions regulations.

Mitsubishi has not officially confirmed a petrol engine hybrid system or UAE specific powertrain yet. The expected UAE petrol version will be finalised closer to the 2027 or 2028 UAE launch date.

Super Select 4WD-II and S-AWC The Off-Road Weapons

The new Pajero features one of the most complete 4WD systems in the segment.

Super Select 4WD-II (SS4-II) four modes:

2H rear wheel drive for normal on road use
4H full-time four-wheel drive for slippery road conditions
4HLc four-wheel drive with the centre differential locked
4LLc four-wheel drive with locked centre differential and low range gearing

Super All Wheel Control (S AWC)
Mitsubishi integrated vehicle dynamics control system
Active Yaw Control (AYC) for torque distribution between left and right wheels through front brakes
Active Stability and Traction Control (ASTC) for slippery surface stability
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) integration
Optimises driving and braking forces at all four wheels based on driver input and road conditions
Seven selectable drive modes
Normal for everyday driving
Eco for maximum fuel efficiency
Gravel for loose surfaces
Snow for winter conditions
Mud for muddy terrain
Sand for UAE dunes and sand surfaces
Rock for technical rocky terrain like Hatta and Ras Al Khaimah wadis

The dedicated Sand mode is particularly relevant to UAE buyers. Sand driving is one of the most common UAE off road use cases and having an optimised drive mode for it is genuinely useful.

Exterior Design Grand Charisma Inspired by Kendo

The new Pajero design concept is called Grand Charisma.

Design highlights:

Bold upright proportions inherited from the first generation Pajero
Strong horizontal design theme carried through
Powerful fenders that express performance capabilities
Sculpted body surfaces for commanding presence
Front end conveys inner strength inspired by kendo (traditional Japanese martial art)

Two distinctive grille designs available:

Horizontal bar grille reflecting Japanese craftsmanship precision
Honeycomb grille evoking streamlined functional beauty and strength (inspired by Dakar heritage)

Distinctive T shaped headlight design
Modern advanced appearance overall
Heritage design elements:

C pillar inspired by the roll bar of the first generation Pajero
Hexagonal rear motif that reinterprets the classic rear mounted spare tire of earlier generations
Six exterior colour options:

Armor Copper Metallic (hero colour with metallic solid weight)
Phantom Blue Metallic (elegant grayish blue with gold highlights)
Plus, four additional colour options

Note the spare wheel has moved underneath the vehicle for easier tailgate operation. Some Pajero enthusiasts might miss the classic rear mounted spare visual signature.

Interior Premium Seven Seat Cabin

The interior takes a major step up in premium quality.

Interior design highlights:

Horizontally oriented instrument panel inherited from the first generation Pajero
Monolithic display integrating two 14.3-inch screens on higher trims
12.3-inch display on lower trims
Graphics inspired by Pajero heritage including reimagined triple meter cluster
Soft touch material with Kimekomi stitching technique inspired by traditional Japanese craft
Applied to instrument panel and door trims
Sense of depth and premium quality worthy of a flagship model
Physical controls retained for frequently used functions including climate control
Multi Meter display
Digital recreation of the iconic triple gauges from older Pajeros
Can show altitude compass direction temperature vehicle pitch and roll angles
Shows torque distribution status in real time
16 background themes that change with the time of day
Interior comfort and features
Semi aniline leather upholstery
Ventilated seats with natural cooling sensation
Tri zone automatic climate control with independent temperature settings
Acoustic windscreen and window glasses for cabin quietness
Wireless smartphone connectivity
USB C ports across all three rows
Wireless phone charging
Connected vehicle services
Camel interior colour scheme designed to hide daily use signs

Seven Seat Layout Third Row Actually Usable

The Pajero offers a genuine three-row seven-seater cabin.

Seating details:

Driver seat positioned higher for elevated eye point
Second row with 150 mm sliding range and tumble mechanism
Improved ease of entry and exit to third row
Third row provides ample headroom even for adults
Thoughtfully designed footwell allows toes beneath second row seats
Optimised seating posture enhances third row comfort
Front and second row seats designed to naturally support the body

This is genuinely important for UAE families where SUVs regularly need to accommodate extended families for weekend trips or airport runs.

Yamaha Dynamic Sound Ultimate Audio System

Mitsubishi has partnered with Yamaha for the new Pajero premium audio.

Audio system details:

Jointly developed with Yamaha Corporation
Uncompromising focus on sound quality
12 speakers total
Dual amplifiers
Noise compensation technology automatically adjusts volume and audio tuning based on vehicle speed
Offsets road noise for exceptional music experience
Works across a wide range of driving conditions

This is Mitsubishi first collaboration with Yamaha at this level and shows the flagship positioning
ambition of the new Pajero.

Safety Eight Airbags Including First Mitsubishi Centre Airbag

The new Pajero receives Mitsubishi most comprehensive safety package ever.

Airbag configuration
8 airbags total
First ever Mitsubishi SRS centre airbag
Reduces risk of injury from contact between front seat occupants
Preventive safety technologies
Forward Collision Mitigation (FCM) with pedestrian cyclist motorcyclist detection and junction assist
Predictive Forward Collision Warning (PFCW)
Emergency Assist for Pedal Misapplication (EAPM)
Emergency Lane Assist (ELA) with steering assistance
Front Cross Traffic Alert (FCTA)
MI-PILOT driver assistance
Highway single lane driving assistance system
Integrated control of Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC)
Lane Keep Assist (LKA)
Maintains appropriate following distance
Keeps vehicle centred in its lane on highways
Helps ease driver fatigue on long distance journeys

This safety technology is particularly relevant for UAE buyers who regularly drive long distances between Dubai, Abu Dhabi and other emirates.

3D Multi Around Monitor with Under Floor Camera

The Pajero includes an advanced surround view camera system.

Camera system details
Combines images from four vehicle mounted cameras with 3D model of vehicle
Processes approximately 30 frames per second
Real time display of surrounding environment
Front under floor view feature
Shows road surface conditions beneath and ahead of the vehicle
Would normally be hidden from view
Displays automatically when 4HLc or 4LLc modes are selected
Can also be manually activated when needed
Especially useful for UAE off road use
Steep dune driving
Rocky wadi navigation
Tight desert trail manoeuvring

Mitsubishi Pajero in the UAE Market

Few vehicle names carry as much recognition in the UAE as the Pajero.

Historical UAE presence
Decades as one of the region most common family SUVs
Accessible entry point into proper four-wheel drive ownership
Popular with UAE families and off-road enthusiasts alike
Combination of seven seats mechanical simplicity capable 4WD and relatively affordable ownership
Frequently on lists of most sold used cars in the UAE
Popular alternative to the Toyota Land Cruiser and Nissan Patrol at lower price points

Why the new Pajero matters for UAE buyers:

Genuine ladder frame off road SUV at a competitive price point
Proven Pajero heritage backed by 12 Dakar Rally wins
Seven seats making it a real family SUV

Al Habtoor Motors dealer network provides established service and parts support. Fills the important gap between the Pajero Sport and full-size Land Cruiser or Patrol.

Expected UAE Pricing and Timing

Mitsubishi has confirmed a phased global rollout.

Rollout timeline:

First launch Thailand
Then Japan and Australia before end of March 2027
Middle East included in subsequent global rollout from fiscal year 2027 onwards
UAE launch details from Al Habtoor Motors expected closer to arrival

Expected UAE availability:

Late 2027 or early to mid 2028 is realistic
Reservations through Al Habtoor Motors likely to open in second half of 2027

Expected UAE pricing:

Estimated between AED 150000 and AED 220000
Higher spec versions could exceed AED 250000
Positions it between the Pajero Sport (from around AED 100000) and Land Cruiser Prado (from around
AED 240000)

UAE competitor comparison:

Toyota Land Cruiser Prado from around AED 240000
Ford Everest from around AED 195000
Nissan Patrol from around AED 240000
Jetour T2 from AED 129000 with PHEV credentials
Mitsubishi Pajero Sport from around AED 100000

The Pajero would sit competitively in that mix offering serious off-road hardware without stretching to full size SUV pricing.

Used Pajero and SUV Options in Dubai While You Wait

The new Pajero will not reach UAE showrooms until late 2027 or 2028 at the earliest.

If you need a proper off-road SUV before then the UAE market offers strong options. used cars in Dubai include low mileage Mitsubishi Pajero Pajero Sport Toyota Prado Land Cruiser Nissan Patrol and other proven off roaders at significant savings versus new. The existing Pajero and Pajero Sport still deliver the classic combination of reliability seven seats and genuine off-road ability that made the model famous in the first place.

You get:

Proven Pajero reliability and off-road capability
Lower price than new
Immediate availability without waiting for late 2027 or 2028 deliveries
Strong dealer service network already in place
Established resale value patterns

Thinking of Upgrading to the New Pajero

If the new Pajero is on your wishlist for 2027 or 2028, this is a smart time to plan ahead.

You can sell your car quickly and put the value directly toward your new Pajero reservation when Al Habtoor Motors opens orders. Current Pajero and Pajero Sport values remain strong in the UAE market, and a proper valuation takes only 15 minutes. It often surprises owners with a higher number than expected.

Timing matters. Once the new generation Pajero arrives outgoing Pajero Sport and older Pajero prices typically soften over the following months.

Frequently Asked Questions

When will the 2027 Mitsubishi Pajero launch?

The new Pajero launches in Thailand first followed by Japan and Australia before end of March 2027. The Middle East is included in subsequent rollout from fiscal year 2027. UAE availability is expected late 2027 or 2028.

What engine does the new Pajero have?

The global launch engine is a new 2.4 litre turbo diesel producing 480 Nm of torque and around 204 hp paired with a new 8 speed automatic transmission. The UAE market is likely to receive a petrol version instead.

Will the new Pajero come to the UAE?

Yes. Mitsubishi has confirmed the Middle East as part of the global rollout. Al Habtoor Motors will handle UAE distribution. The exact UAE launch date has not been confirmed yet.

How does the new Pajero compare to the Land Cruiser Prado?

Slightly smaller than the current Prado but with similar ladder frame construction, 7 seats and off-road capability. The Pajero is expected to be priced lower than the Prado, making it a competitive alternative for UAE buyers.

How many seats does the new Pajero have?

The new Pajero has 7 seats across three rows. The second-row slides through a 150 mm range and has a tumble mechanism for easier third row access.

What 4WD system does the new Pajero use?

Super Select 4WD-II (SS4-II) with four selectable modes plus Super All Wheel Control (S-AWC) integrated vehicle dynamics system and seven drive modes including a dedicated Sand mode for UAE use.

How much will the 2027 Mitsubishi Pajero cost in the UAE?

Expected UAE prices range from around AED 150000 to AED 220000 depending on the trim. Higher spec versions could exceed AED 250000. Final pricing will be confirmed by Al Habtoor Motors closer to
launch.

Has the Pajero won the Dakar Rally?

Yes. The Pajero won the Dakar Rally 12 times in total, including 7 consecutive victories between 2001 and 2007. It is one of the most successful off-road competition vehicles in history.

Things to Watch Before the UAE Launch

Mitsubishi has confirmed most of the global Pajero details, but UAE specific details are still pending.

What we still need to learn:

Confirmed UAE launch date and dealer rollout
Final UAE petrol engine specification and power output
Complete UAE pricing across all trim levels
Which of the trims will be offered in the UAE
Al Habtoor Motors warranty terms
UAE specific features and equipment
MI-PILOT availability confirmation for UAE roads

Final Thoughts

The return of the Mitsubishi Pajero is genuinely significant for the UAE off-road SUV market.

Mitsubishi could have revived the badge on a soft roader crossover and relied entirely on nostalgia. Instead, they have developed a serious ladder frame SUV with Super Select 4WD-II a locking centre differential of seven seats and the dimensions to compete with segment leaders like the Toyota Land Cruiser Prado.

The Grand Charisma design language pays proper tribute to the original 1982 Pajero. The interior takes a real step up in premium quality. Safety technology is comprehensive. And the off-road hardware is proven for Mitsubishi engineering refined for a new era.

For UAE buyers who have been waiting for a proper mid to full size Mitsubishi off road SUV, the wait is nearly over.

Al Habtoor Motors will need to get the engine specification and pricing right for the GCC market. If they do that, Mitsubishi could once again have one of the UAE most popular family off roaders on its hands. The Pajero name still means something in the UAE. Now Mitsubishi has to deliver a Pajero worthy of that heritage. Based on what we have seen so far, it looks like they might have done exactly that.