The 50-year-plus Japanese off-roader trifecta is complete once again.If you buy from a link, we may earn a commission. Learn moreAfter months of rumors and teasers, Mitsubishi's archrival to the Toyota Land Cruiser and Nissan Patrol is finally here. The Japanese off-roader trifecta is complete once again.Say hello to the all-new, highly anticipated fifth-generation Mitsubishi Pajero. It arrives after being on hiatus for almost a decade, following the previous fourth-gen's 15-year production run.AdvertisementAdvertisementMore importantly, the Pajero's revival once again reignites one of the automotive world's greatest competitions. We couldn't be any more excited for it.The new Toyota Land Cruiser and Nissan Patrol will finally meet their latest matchJapan has only recently refreshed its iconic off-roaders. Toyota introduced its latest Land Cruiser and Land Cruiser Prado, while Nissan treated the world to the newest Patrol. We get it as the Armada.Thus, it was Mitsubishi's turn to return to the party. And it finally has, continuing one of Japan's most iconic four-wheeled rivalries since the 1950s.Mitsubishi's Pajero looks trail-ready enough to take on the furthest corners of the planet. - Credit: Mitsubishi MotorsAs promised, the new fifth-gen Pajero arrives on the company's latest rugged, full-size ladder-frame. This same platform will also yield a next-gen pickup.AdvertisementAdvertisementThe Pajero introduces Mitsubishi's latest tech-forward four-wheel-drive system. Called SS4-II, it's an iteration of Mitsubishi's Super Select 4. 2027 Mitsubishi Pajero Details 6 photos Mitsubishi Motors - Credit: Mitsubishi MotorsMitsubishi Motors - Credit: Mitsubishi MotorsMitsubishi Motors - Credit: Mitsubishi MotorsMitsubishi Motors - Credit: Mitsubishi MotorsAdvertisementAdvertisementMitsubishi Motors - Credit: Mitsubishi MotorsMitsubishi Motors - Credit: Mitsubishi Motors Expand gallery 10 1 / 6 Previous slide Next slide Return to story AdvertisementAdvertisementAdvertisementAdvertisementMitsubishi MotorsMitsubishi MotorsMitsubishi MotorsMitsubishi MotorsAdvertisementAdvertisementMitsubishi MotorsMitsubishi Motors 10 1 / 6 Previous slide Next slide As such, features like electronic torque distribution between the front and rear axles and left and right wheels is standard. Active Yaw Control helps on inclines and declines.Different drive modes with programming variances also help with traction and grip.All-terrain versatilityThe Pajero finally gets the modern reboot it sorely needed, and it most certainly looks fresh on the inside.Sending power to two or all four wheels, depending on the drive mode, will be Mitsubishi's latest 2.4-liter turbocharged diesel four-cylinder. Between the engine and the axles lies the company's latest eight-speed automatic transmission.Mitsubishi is initially launching the Pajero in Japan and Asian markets first, which is likely why it's debuting with a turbo-diesel four-cylinder. In those regions, such engines are still widely accepted and standard kit.AdvertisementAdvertisementOther additional engines will likely arrive later down the production cycle.The Land Cruiser and Patrol had better watch out. Mitsubishi is back in the off-roading game. - Credit: Mitsubishi MotorsThere still hasn't been any official word about the Pajero's North American return as the Montero. This is despite the rumors and even American-based Mitsubishi dealers getting a supposed sneak preview several months ago.We hope Mitsubishi plans to revive the Pajero in America.Availability and pricingMitsubishi Motors announced the next-gen Pajero's official launch for Japan and select Asian markets beginning at the end of 2026. Pricing details will likely follow closer to that date.2027 Mitsubishi Pajero Learn More About the Author: Chris Chin is an associate editor at Gear Patrol, covering cars, trucks and anything else with four wheels. He has over a decade of experience writing news and reviews but considers himself an enthusiast first, with a passion for classics and European cars. His daily driver is a 1987 Mercedes-Benz 560SEL with nearly 250,000 miles (87,000 are his).AdvertisementAdvertisementWant to stay up to date on the latest product news and releases? Add Gear Patrol as a preferred source to ensure our independent journalism makes it to the top of your Google search results.