The famed SUV has an international loyal fanbase and is among the most popular SUVs in its space worldwide
The next-gen Mitsubishi Pajero Sport makes its virtual debut courtesy of a creative rendering by a prominent digital artist. Pajero is a name familiar in our country. In fact, the regular Pajero was first launched in our market back in 2002 and remained in production until 2012, when it was replaced by the Pajero Sport. Interesting, it was on sale until 2020-21. It was a key challenger to the likes of the Toyota Fortuner and Ford Endeavour back then. Unfortunately, Ford and Mitsubishi are no longer operational in India. Nevertheless, the latter is allegedly looking for ways to re-enter India and the new Pajero Sport could be the perfect model to facilitate that.
Next-Gen Mitsubishi Pajero Sport Visualized
This digital concept has been created by malvinwsetiawan on Instagram. The design is based on the spy pics which surfaced a few days ago. At the front, we see a striking fascia with massive LED DRLs on the extreme edges, neatly encapsulating the LED headlamps. The centre stage is occupied by a colossal grille finished in black with the Mitsubishi logo at the centre. Down below, the bumper is relatively simple. Moving down the sides captures a muscular and rugged appearance with solid body panels, black side pillars, practical roof rails, adventurous alloys and squared wheel arches. All in all, it is a significant departure from the Pajero Sport of the past.
The new-gen Mitsubishi Pajero Sport will be based on the Triton pickup truck. The powertrain option will most likely be the 2.4-litre twin-turbo diesel engine, which is good for a decent 181 hp and 470 Nm of peak power and torque, respectively. This mill pairs with an 8-speed automatic transmission. However, the biggest attraction will be the hardcore Super Select 4WD system, which will make it immensely capable off-tarmac. In terms of safety and convenience, the large SUV will bear all the latest bells and whistles. The launch might take place in 2026 across various international markets.
My View
We know that there is no worthy rival to the Toyota Fortuner in our market at the moment. Therefore, if something like the new Mitsubishi Pajero Sport launches in India, the buyers will have another eminent option in this space. Personally, I would love to see it in our market. In any case, we shall keep an eye out for how things pan out in the coming months.
Editor’s Note
Yatharth Chauhan, Managing Editor
Having tracked the Indian SUV space for well over a decade, I can say the Pajero name still commands deep respect among enthusiasts and seasoned buyers alike. The next-gen Pajero Sport, if Mitsubishi truly brings it here, could finally inject some much-needed competition into a segment long dominated by the Fortuner. With its Triton-based underpinnings and proper 4×4 hardware, it has the right ingredients for India’s growing lifestyle-SUV audience. Mitsubishi’s comeback won’t be easy, but a well-priced, well-supported Pajero Sport could be the brand’s strongest ticket back into relevance.
Also Read: Man Builds Mercedes G63 AMG Out of an Old Mitsubishi Pajero
