After years of speculation and countless spy shots, one of the most iconic names in off-roading is officially making a comeback. The 2027 Mitsubishi Pajero is set to land in Australian showrooms soon, and there’s a lot for buyers to get excited about. Here are seven things you should know before it arrives.
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1. It’s Officially Back After a Five-Year Hiatus
The last full-sized Pajero left Australian showrooms back in 2021, and its smaller Triton-based sibling, the Pajero Sport, was pulled from local sale in 2025. That gap ends soon, as the 2027 Mitsubishi Pajero has now been officially confirmed, marking the first new generation of this legendary nameplate in years.
A Nameplate With Serious History
Globally known as the Montero and the Shogun in other markets, the Pajero has racked up more than 3.3 million sales across four generations since its debut in 1981. The return of the 2027 Mitsubishi Pajero isn’t just another new model launch, it’s the revival of a genuinely iconic badge.
2. It’s Built on the Tough Triton Ute Platform
Rather than continuing with a unibody structure like more recent Pajero generations, the new model goes back to its rugged roots. The 2027 Mitsubishi Pajero uses a body-on-frame ladder chassis based on the current Mitsubishi Triton, giving it genuine off-road credentials rather than a softer crossover-style setup.
Model-Specific Suspension Tuning
Mitsubishi has confirmed the cabin, along with the front and rear suspension, has been specifically developed for this SUV rather than simply carried over from the Triton, aiming to give it its own distinct driving character on and off the road.
3. Expect a Bigger Lineup With Multiple Variants
Buyers in Australia will have real choice this time around. Local homologation documents suggest the 2027 Mitsubishi Pajero could arrive with as many as six variants across four grade levels, mirroring the structure of the outgoing Pajero Sport while offering more options overall.
A Possible Return for the Exceed Badge
Early reports out of Japan suggest a top-tier trim reminiscent of the well-known Exceed grade could return, which would appeal to buyers wanting a more premium, feature-loaded version of the SUV.
4. Diesel Power, With Hybrid Technology on the Horizon
Under the bonnet, the 2027 Mitsubishi Pajero is expected to share its powertrain with the Triton, likely featuring a 2.4-litre bi-turbo four-cylinder diesel engine producing around 150kW and 470Nm, with a towing capacity of up to 3500kg.
A Plug-In Hybrid Option Could Follow
Mitsubishi has also confirmed that plug-in hybrid technology currently being developed for the Triton could eventually make its way into the Pajero lineup, giving buyers a more efficient option down the line without sacrificing off-road capability.
A Nod to Its Off-Road Roots
This diesel-first approach echoes the original 1982 Pajero, which was designed as a genuine rival to off-road stalwarts like the Toyota LandCruiser of its era.
5. A More Premium, Tech-Loaded Cabin
Inside, buyers can expect a noticeable step up. The 2027 Mitsubishi Pajero is expected to feature a 9.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system, an upgrade from the 8.0-inch unit in the outgoing Pajero Sport, along with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto instead of the older wired-only setup.
Tan Upholstery and a Boxier Cabin Feel
Teaser footage shown to existing Pajero owners has revealed tan upholstery and an upright rear profile, signaling a cabin designed to feel more premium while staying true to the model’s traditional, rugged character.
6. Available in Both Five-Seat and Seven-Seat Layouts
Practicality remains a key focus. According to current reports, the 2027 Mitsubishi Pajero will be offered in both five-seat and seven-seat configurations, giving buyers flexibility depending on whether they need extra passenger space or prioritise cargo capacity.
A True Rival to the LandCruiser and Patrol
With its ladder-frame construction, diesel power, and seating flexibility, this new SUV is shaping up as a genuine competitor to established heavyweights like the Toyota LandCruiser and Nissan Patrol in the large off-road SUV segment.
7. When and How You Can Get One in Australia
Timing-wise, things are moving quickly. The 2027 Mitsubishi Pajero is expected to be globally revealed in Tokyo in early September, with pre-orders opening in Australia in October and vehicles arriving in local showrooms by December, potentially in time for the end of the year.
Manufactured in Thailand Alongside the Triton
Production will take place in Thailand, the same facility responsible for building the current Triton, ensuring consistent quality and supply as demand ramps up ahead of the Australian launch.
Where to Research Ownership Costs and Servicing
Once you’ve decided on a new SUV like this, it’s worth planning ahead for ownership costs too. You can explore practical vehicle care tips through this resource hub, and if you run a workshop interested in servicing vehicles like the new Pajero, you can look into this partnership program built for automotive businesses. Service centres wanting to set up their own management account can get started through this registration page.
Should You Wait for It?
If you’ve been holding off on a large 4WD purchase, this might be worth the wait. Compare its expected specs and pricing against rivals once official details drop, and consider getting on a dealer’s early interest list so you’re not left waiting once local stock arrives.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the 2027 Mitsubishi Pajero replacing the Pajero Sport?
Yes, effectively. The Pajero Sport was discontinued in Australia in 2025, and the new Pajero steps in as its replacement while dropping the “Sport” name entirely.
Will the new Pajero be more capable off-road than the outgoing model?
It should be, thanks to its return to a body-on-frame ladder chassis, which generally offers stronger off-road durability compared to the unibody structure used in more recent Pajero generations.
Is a hybrid version confirmed for launch?
Not for the initial launch. A diesel engine is expected first, with plug-in hybrid technology potentially arriving later as it’s developed further for the Triton platform.
How many seats will it have?
Reports indicate it will be offered in both five-seat and seven-seat layouts, giving buyers flexibility based on their needs.
Ready to Explore Your Options?
With official reveal dates approaching fast, now is a great time to start researching trims, comparing it against rivals, and speaking with your local dealer about expected pricing and availability.
Conclusion
The wait is almost over for one of Australia’s most anticipated SUV comebacks. The 2027 Mitsubishi Pajero brings back genuine off-road toughness, a more premium cabin, and real variant choice, all built on a platform proven by the Triton. Whether you’re drawn to its history or simply need a capable, family-friendly 4WD, this is a launch worth watching closely as more details emerge over the coming months.
