# Mitsubishi automotive product development and renewal

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/mitsubishi-automotive-product-development-and-renewal
> Updated: 2026-10-26T12:03:47.000Z. Sources: 11. Developments: 4.

Mitsubishi is implementing a brand renewal strategy through the development of new vehicle models and powertrain technologies.

The company is reviving the Pajero nameplate with a fifth-generation flagship SUV scheduled for release on December 17. This model marks a return after a five-year production hiatus and utilizes a high-rigidity ladder-frame chassis shared with the Triton (L200) pickup truck. The vehicle features a 2.4-liter diesel engine producing 204 horsepower, an 8-speed automatic transmission, the S-AWC vehicle motion control system, Super Select 4WD-II, and ‘MI-PILOT’ highway driving assistance. To balance off-road capability and luxury, Mitsubishi is introducing a ‘Prestige’ concept alongside ‘Confidence’ and ‘Comfort’ philosophies.

President Keisuke Kishiura indicated the Pajero’s return is tied to motorsport ambitions, including potential entries in the 2027 Asia Cross Country Rally (AXCR), the Dakar Rally, and the World Rally Championship (WRC). Future Pajero plans include a compact crossover variant with electrified powertrains expected around 2028 or 2029, and potentially a smaller kei-sized model for Japan.

Regarding the Outlander, Mitsubishi is planning a major redesign for a 2028 debut to address declining US market deliveries. This overhaul may include an upgraded hybrid system utilizing up to four electric motors to enhance the S-AWC system. As part of its ‘Momentum 2030’ business plan, Mitsubishi Motors North America will premiere the 2028 Outlander Diamond Trail Edition at the 2026 SEMA Show. This trim features a ‘Rock’ drive mode, redesigned bumpers for improved approach and departure angles, and an extended Multi-View Camera System.

## Claims

- Mitsubishi will return to the SEMA Show in Las Vegas from November 3 to 6, 2026. (corroborated by 2 sources)
- The 2028 Outlander Diamond Trail Edition will make its world debut at SEMA 2026. (corroborated by 2 sources)
- The Outlander Diamond Trail Edition includes a new Rock drive mode. (single source)
- The vehicle features redesigned bumpers to increase the approach angle to 20.5 degrees. (single source)
- The Outlander Diamond Trail Edition uses 265/65-18 all-terrain tires. (single source)
- Mitsubishi will exhibit six vehicles at the SEMA Show. (single source)
- The Outlander Diamond Trail Edition features a Multi-View Camera System active up to 18.6 mph. (single source)
- The vehicle's departure angle is increased to 23.1 degrees. (single source)

## Timeline

### 2026-10-26: Mitsubishi returns to SEMA Show with 2028 Outlander debut

Mitsubishi returns to the SEMA Show in 2026, debuting the 2028 Outlander Diamond Trail Edition, an off-road focused SUV featuring a new Rock drive mode and enhanced ground clearance.

5 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/mitsubishi-returns-to-sema-show-with-2028-outlander-debut

### 2026-10-15: Mitsubishi Motors announces return of Pajero SUV

Mitsubishi Motors will launch the fifth-generation Pajero SUV on December 17, aiming to combine off-road performance with luxury while eyeing a potential return to the Dakar Rally.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/mitsubishi-motors-announces-return-of-pajero-suv

### 2026-09-29: Mitsubishi plans major redesign for next-generation Outlander

Mitsubishi plans to debut a redesigned Outlander in 2028, featuring an advanced hybrid system with up to four electric motors to enhance performance and off-road capabilities.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/mitsubishi-plans-major-redesign-for-next-generation-outlander

### 2026-09-18: Mitsubishi revives Pajero nameplate with fifth-generation SUV

Mitsubishi is reviving the Pajero name with a fifth-generation, ladder-frame SUV featuring a 2.4L diesel engine and plans for a future lineup of compact crossovers and smaller models.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/mitsubishi-revives-pajero-nameplate-with-fifth-generation-suv

---
Cite as: Mitsubishi automotive product development and renewal. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/mitsubishi-automotive-product-development-and-renewal
