The Mitsubishi Pajero could return to Philippine roads after a five-year absence as Mitsubishi Motors prepares to roll out its redesigned flagship SUV across about 100 markets beginning fiscal 2027.
Mitsubishi Motors Corp. on Wednesday unveiled the all-new Pajero in Tokyo, reviving one of its most recognizable nameplates after the previous generation was discontinued in overseas markets in 2021.
The new Pajero will be manufactured in Thailand and launched first in Thailand, followed by Japan and Australia within fiscal 2026. From fiscal 2027, Mitsubishi plans to expand sales to around 100 countries across ASEAN, Latin America, and the Middle East.
The Philippines is included in the planned ASEAN rollout, potentially opening the door for the SUV’s return. Mitsubishi Motors Philippines, however, has yet to announce whether or when the Pajero will be introduced locally.
The Pajero disappeared from Mitsubishi’s Philippine lineup in June 2021, ending a local run that dated back to the 1980s.
Globally, more than 3.29 million Pajeros were produced across four generations, with the SUV sold in more than 170 countries and regions.
“The all-new Pajero is the first model to bring this vision to life,” Mitsubishi Motors President and Chief Operating Officer Keisuke Kishiura said.
“As our flagship model, it will lead not only the Pajero series to follow, but the entire Mitsubishi Motors lineup,” he added.
The new-generation Pajero retains its off-road positioning while adding greater refinement and premium features expected of a flagship SUV.
Its planned expansion into ASEAN puts the Philippines back on the potential Pajero map, although local buyers will have to wait for Mitsubishi to confirm whether the iconic nameplate is coming home.
