The all-new Mitsubishi Pajero has returned with a diesel-only powertrain, but the company has confirmed that electrified versions of its body-on-frame vehicles, including potential future Pajero hybrid models, are already under development.
The new Pajero is initially available with a 2.4-liter turbo-diesel four-cylinder engine derived from the Triton pickup and improved for the SUV. The engine produces 201 horsepower and 354 lb-ft of torque, though Mitsubishi has indicated that electrification remains part of its longer-term development work.
2027 Mitsubishi Pajero: Everything We Know About the Legendary SUV’s Return
New Pajero Launches With Diesel Power Only
For now, the all-new Mitsubishi Pajero relies exclusively on internal combustion power. Its 2.4-liter turbo-diesel four-cylinder receives revisions over the version used in the Triton, including additional torque and sharper throttle response.
The diesel-powered model is not expected to arrive in the United States anytime soon. A different powertrain would likely be needed if Mitsubishi were to bring the Pajero, known as the Montero in some markets, back to American buyers.
Mitsubishi Confirms Hybrid Pajero Development
During the Pajero launch, Mitsubishi Australia CEO Shaun Westcott and other Mitsubishi executives told CarExpert that the company’s engineering teams are actively working on electrified versions of its ladder-frame vehicles.
Chief engineer Takao Itagaki said the new Pajero launches with internal combustion power, but confirmed that Mitsubishi is researching hybrid and plug-in hybrid technologies for future products.
“Mitsubishi Motors is pursuing research and development in electrified ladder-frame vehicles, including hybrid vehicle and plug-in hybrid vehicle technologies for products such as Pajero and Triton in the future,” Itagaki told the Australian publication.
Mitsubishi has also emphasized that any future electrified Pajero would need to maintain the vehicle’s off-road capability, towing performance and durability.
No Timeline for a Pajero Hybrid
Mitsubishi has not announced a timeline for a hybrid version of the Pajero. Until then, the SUV will continue with its revised 2.4-liter diesel engine.
The company has also dismissed rumors involving alternative engines, including Nissan’s twin-turbo V6 from the Armada. Instead, Mitsubishi says it is continuing to evaluate its options based on market demand, emissions regulations and performance requirements.
The company’s confirmed research into electrified ladder-frame vehicles provides its clearest indication so far that a Pajero Hybrid remains under consideration for the future.
The Pajero Lineup Could Expand
The Pajero’s return may involve more than the full-size SUV. During Mitsubishi’s major reveal, a teaser image showed two unidentified vehicles parked alongside the new Pajero, suggesting that the nameplate could eventually become part of a broader family.
The midsize vehicle in the teaser is believed to be a compact SUV that could revive the Pajero iO name, while the smallest silhouette appears to hint at the possible return of the Pajero Mini. Mitsubishi has not officially announced names for either vehicle.
The Pajero iO was historically a compact off-roader positioned below the full-size Pajero. The Pajero Mini, meanwhile, was a kei-sized SUV that competed in Japan’s lightweight off-road segment against vehicles including the Suzuki Jimny.
For now, Mitsubishi’s immediate focus is the diesel-powered return of the Pajero, while its engineering teams continue researching hybrid and plug-in hybrid technologies for future ladder-frame vehicles, including the Pajero and Triton.
