Pajero is one of the highest-reputable nameplates in the world of SUV enthusiasts but despite its great legacy, these days aren’t the best for the famous Japanese models, particularly the Pajero, which still has an uncertain future. On the other hand, the Pajero Sport is available in many parts of the world and it is still a pretty decent SUV. Therefore, this article will bring some of our predictions regarding the future of both the 2023 Mitsubishi Pajero and Pajero Sport models.
The following paragraphs are based on rumors, particularly in the case of Pajero, so make sure to stay reserved. On the other hand, things about the Pajero Sport are quite easy to predict, as we are pretty sure that the next year’s model won’t bring bigger changes and that the current generation will remain in production for a few more years. The Pajero Sport should hit the market in the last quarter of the year.
2023 Mitsubishi Pajero and Pajero Sport Design
When it comes to the 2023 Mitsubishi Pajero and Pajero Sport models, some things are easy to predict, while others are no more than pure speculation. In the case of Pajero Sport, we don’t expect bigger changes. The current generation has been around for a while, but it’s still early for bigger changes. This SUV is based on the L200/Triton pickup and shares most of the parts with it. Still, there is a bunch of differences as well, particularly in terms of suspension setup. For example, this model features an independent rear suspension, while the pickup sibling still relies on good-old leaf springs.
Of course, the Pajero Sport will also continue with the same styling, which still looks modern and attractive. On the inside, this SUV is more about functionality than style, so it’s no wonder that most materials are hard to touch. Still, the build quality is great and everything looks like it could last for ages. More importantly, the amount of passengers is pretty generous. The first two rows are pretty generous with space, while the third row also accommodates adults with ease.
Mitsubishi Pajero
On the other hand, the destiny of the full-size Pajero is still a mystery. The production of the previous generation ended last year, after more than 15 years. Nowadays, we are getting reports about the next generation, which would be developed along with the next-generation Nissan Patrol, allegedly. According to rumors, the new 2023 Mitsubishi Pajero would ride on the same F-Alpha platform as Patrol, sharing pretty much all of the mechanics. On the other hand, the new Pajero would come with a different styling, based on the brand’s new design language.
2023 Mitsubishi Pajero and Pajero Sport Engines
When it comes to the 2023 Mitsubishi Pajero and Pajero Sport powertrain options, we are pretty sure that the Pajero Sport would continue in the same way. In most parts of the world, that would be the company’s well-known 2.4-liter turbodiesel, which puts out around 133kW (180hp) and 430Nm (317 lb-ft) of torque. The engine comes in pair with 8-speed automatic transmission.
On the other hand, the full-size Pajero would share the powertrain with the new Patrol. From what we know so far, that probably won’t be the good-old 5.6-liter V8 but rather something smaller and more efficient. Some sources speculate about a turbocharged version of Nissan’s new 3.8-liter V6, which debuted last year in the Frontier.
2023 Mitsubishi Pajero and Pajero Sport Release Date
When it comes to the 2023 Mitsubishi Pajero and Pajero Sport release date, we know that the latter will come sometime in the last quarter of the year. On the other hand, the former is still waiting for official confirmation. The Pajero Sport will continue to compete with models like Toyota Fortuner, Ford Everest etc. On the other hand, the full-size Pajero would compete with models like Nissan Patrol, Toyota Land Cruiser 300 etc.