Mitsubishi Pajero Mini sells at US auction as company teases next‑gen off‑road model

A 2000‑model Mitsubishi Pajero Mini, the Japanese kei‑car version of the classic SUV, was listed for auction in Cookeville, Tennessee. The vehicle, painted in a “Snoopy Edition” livery with Peanuts graphics, is powered by a 659 cc turbo three‑cylinder engine delivering 51 hp and features four‑wheel drive, a four‑speed automatic and a low mileage of about 35,000 mi after recent maintenance.

Separately, Mitsubishi announced that a new generation of the Pajero is under development, targeting a 2026 launch. The upcoming model will use a ladder‑frame chassis and a 2.4‑litre turbodiesel engine offered in 150‑204 hp outputs. Built on the Triton pickup platform, production for European markets is planned at the Laem Chaban plant in Thailand. Design cues include a prominent front grille, vertical light groups and a revived Multi‑Meter instrument cluster aimed at serious off‑road users.