All-new Mitsubishi Pajero to launch in 2021! Plug-in hybrid power coming as iconic SUV makes a surprise comeback – reports

The iconic Mitsubishi Pajero nameplate is set for a return to glory, with Japanese media today reporting that an all-new model will launch in Japan in 2021.

It’s a return from the scrapheap for the Pajero, at least in Japan, where the model was axed in 2019.

The ageing icon – last fully updated in 20006 – remains on sale in Australia. In fact, it was just updated for 2020 here, with Mitsubishi trimming the line-up from three to two models, and adding equipment.

Despite that stay of execution, it was thought the Pajero would be phased out entirely around the world in the coming years, with no all-new model on the horizon.

Until now, that is, with Japanese scoop site Spyder7 today reporting that an all-new Pajero will be revealed in “late 2021 or 2022”, rejuvenating the nameplate in Japan.

According to the site, the Pajero will adopt a new-generation ladder-frame chassis and will stretch roughly the same dimensions as the car it replaces.

Powering the new model will be a plug-in hybrid powertrain which marries a 2.4-litre, four-cylinder petrol motor with a pair of electric motors. According to the site, you can expect 75km in pure electric driving range.

Again, according to reports, the next-gen Pajero will borrow its styling cues from the Concept GC (pictured) which was first revealed at the Tokyo Motor Show in 2013. That car married a supercharged V6 with a hybrid system, but if the reports are to be believed, the capacity has since been downgraded.