2026 Mitsubishi Pajero Sport: The all-new Mitsubishi Pajero Sport 2020 is set for a world premiere and the Japanese automotive manufacturer is all set to pull off the wraps from the massively improved version of its mid-size SUV. To be officially unveiled in the last quarter of 2025 with deliveries starting early in 2026, the new Pajero Sport draws on its rugged lineage while delivering a load of 21st century niceties to bring it in line with more contemporary competitors from the likes of the Ford Everest and Toyota Fortuner.
Pajero Sport 2026 Spy shots of early prototypes have already been seen being tested, so what do we know so far? However, the 2026 model seems to be bringing some of its new design from the latest gen Mitsubishi Triton pickup truck DNA on the front fascia, yet it continues to look like the unique identity among those who love to explore the world, as for Pajero Sport.
Bold Exterior Redesign
Compared to the previous model, the 2026 Pajero Sport takes on a more aggressive and chunky look. Early test mules indicate a new front end more clearly related to the current Triton pickup, with a raised hood line and repositioned headlights that help the SUV assume a more butch and aggressive appearance on the road. Its familiar silhouette remains, though the wheel arches are more pronounced and the overall proportions are bigger—about 15mm longer and 50mm wider than the current car.
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At the rear, triangular taillights are rumoured and these are said to evoke the classic Mitsubishi Lancer but at least establish a stylistic link to the company’s past while still looking totally up-to-date. Overall the exterior design is less revolution and more evolution, still maintaining the rugged stance and form of the Pajero Sport’s frame, but smoothing out some of the aerodynamics for a more efficient driving experience, as well as for reduced wind noise at highway velocities.
The new Dynamic Shield front grille is a lot burlier and the more sophisticated LED headlights don’t just make it pretty, but it’s good looking with a purpose, just like a tailor-made suit.
Powerful Powertrain Options
Power will come from something borrowed from Triton tendrils, which means the 2026 Pajero Sport will probably have a similar engine lineup to the pickup truck, tailored depending on the market and the nature of driving. The most powerful powertrain is likely to be that of a 2,4 litre twin turbo four-cylinder diesel engine that will push close to 150 kW and 470 N.m torque. With this powerful engine, the Pajero Sport will have enough power from effortless everyday commuting and challenging off-road driving.
Where available, markets such as the Middle East may get a 2.4-litre petrol non-turbo engine producing around 130 hp as the entry-level model. Transmission options are expected to consist of a six-speed manual and a six-speed automatic, though an eight-speed automatic has also been reported. With this range of powertrain options available, the Pajero Sport is engineered to suit your local needs.
It’s a performance that is entirely in keeping with the car’s carefully crafted balance between serenity and urgency, like a practiced mountain climber taking a measured and regular pace on easy ground, but with flashes of strength available when the terrain gets tough. Fuel economy has also been enhanced thanks to better aerodynamics and powertrain fine-tuning, this being one of the otherwise minor objections on the existing model.
Advanced Off-Road Capability
From its looks the 2026 Pajero Sport has the off-roading prowess has always been associated with. Based on a stronger ladder-frame chassis that offers 60 percent more torsional rigidity, the new SUV is expected to offer even greater toughness and off-road readiness.
Bringing the Xpander name into the great outdoors, it combines it with a heavy-duty system called the Mitsubishi Super Select 4WD-II that has different driving models for gravel, mud, sand, and snow. This advanced system enables drivers to conveniently change modes on the go by select the option for the ideal condition of road or terrain. An electronic locking rear diff and a revised mix of suspension make the Pajero Sport even more capable on difficult tracks.
The strengthened chassis enhances not only safety but also robust durability, which provides a positive synergy with off-road utility. For hardcore off-roaders the 4LLc mode locks the differential and sends help from lower gears to conquer the toughest terrains.
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Upscale Cabin and Features
The cabin represents a big step up for the Pajero Sport in terms of interior quality and tech. We also anticipate a 12.3-inch infotainment screen to be fitted into the dashboard, which will support wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Physical buttons for critical features are also present in addition to touchscreen interface – a balance of tech and ergonomics.
Higher trim levels will no doubt be fitted with soft-touch surfaces, leather upholstery and ambient lighting to make for a luxurious-feeling cabin that juxtaposes with the rugged exterior of the car. The 2nd and 3rd rows provide the utmost in comfort and sophistication, including available power-folding capability. And it is in looking after in-cabin comfort where the Pajero Sport goes from being a ute-masquerading-as-an-SUV to one that can do the family-adventure-job-of-work.
And we call the cabin technology user-friendly and intuitive, with useful attributes instead of gimmicks. It has a larger infotainment screen, which acts as the command center for the truck’s systems, such as navigation, climate control and off-road settings.
Expected Price Range
Expect the 2026 Mitsubishi Pajero Sport to attract a slightly higher price than the current version with step-up goodies and capabilities. In the Indian market, prices could start over ₹32 lakh (ex-showroom) for the base variant while the higher variants could have a pricepoint of over ₹45 lakh depending on the trims and optional equipment.
With this price range, the Pajero Sport is placed well against its main competitors. These being the mid-range models, that usually offer the sweet spot between features and value, we expect prices to be in the range of ₹36-40 lakh. Mitsubishi could also introduce special launch editions with special features and design elements which could demand a premium of around ₹1-2 lakh over the regular variants.
International price differences will of course be substantial based on local taxes, import duties and market positioning. In Australia, while there’s no official pricing just yet, the new Pajero Sport should be priced from around AUD 48,000 for the base model, and in Thailand, from where it hails, prices should start at about 1.3 million baht.
Comprehensive Safety Package
Safety continues to be Mitsubishi’s top priority and the 2026 Pajero Sport is equipped with an extensive system of advanced active and passive safety equipment. Key options will likely consist of forward collision warning, lane departure warning, and blind spot monitoring. Convenient highway drives with adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go.
Upper trims will be able to add a 360-degree camera system with rear cross-traffic alert, giving you one more level of protection on busy lots. Mitsubishi has also incorporated its advanced MI pilot assist system, delivering semi-autonomous driving performance that reduces weariness on lengthy trips.
Add the strong body structure to the mix, along with numerous airbags and an impact-absorbing chassis, and everyone inside is fully protected. These safety systems are working together seamlessly, like a protective shield that is always on, always vigilant, always monitoring the environment around the vehicle and prepared to make interventions as necessary.