New Mitsubishi Pajero Sport 2026: What’s Driving Innovation in Australia’s Off-Road Next Gen

The 2026 Mitsubishi Pajero Sport arrives as a bold reinvention — a blend of rugged capability, intelligent technology, and refined design tailored for modern adventurers. Building on a legacy of off-road prowess, the updated model introduces sweeping improvements that redefine competitiveness in Australia’s growing SUV market. From powertrain efficiency to safety and connectivity, the new Pajero Sport sets a new benchmark for purpose-built vehicles.

True to its directional heritage, the 2026 Pajero Sport delivers commanding off-road performance while integrating cutting-edge features that reflect current mobility expectations. “We’ve reimagined the Pajero Sport not just for terrain, but for the driver — combining intuitive technology with proven durability,” says Mitsubishi Australia’s chief product officer. “This is off-roading with a future-ready edge.”

Powertrain & Performance: Efficiency Meets Effortless Power

At the heart of the 2026 Pajero Sport lies a refined powertrain engineered for both rugged versatility and everyday usability.

The standard 148h TwinCharge B6V10 3.0L gasoline engine, now tuned for smarter fuel economy, delivers 235 hybrid-shift horsepower while achieving 7.1 L/100km in mixed driving conditions — a mark down from prior generations. Paired with a six-speed automatic transmission featuring auto-clutch lockup, the system ensures smooth transitions from city streets to steep mountain trails.

Optionally available, a turbocharged 2.4L diesel engine offers 202 hp with a 7.3 L/100km fuel rating, appealing to eco-conscious and long-haul users. This dual powertrain philosophy underscores Mitsubishi’s commitment to offering choice without compromising performance.

Four-wheel drive remains central, now featuring Mitsubishi’s Intelligent Selective Torque Control (i-STC), which dynamically adjusts drive distribution based on terrain feedback. Combined with auto-mode, torque vectoring, and low-range gearing, i-STC ensures optimal traction across mud, gravel, sand, and urban obstacles.

Performance Trim Upgrades: Track-Ready Capabilities for Every Trail

The base Pajero Sport ranks as a top-ten voted SUV in off-road capability surveys, while higher trims introduce specialized features designed for enthusiasts and frequent adventurers. Level up with the S trim, now featuring enhanced aerodynamics, heavier-duty cognitive suspension, and 20-inch indegent alloy wheels with Michelin Fourth Generation tires optimized for low-pressure off-road traction.

“S trim isn’t just an upgrade in comfort — it’s about control on the toughest terrain,” explains Mitsubishi’s technical lead.

“Enhanced ground clearance, adjusted ride height, and reinforced axle components allow for more confident navigation across rocks, ruts, and loose surfaces.” The mid-level EX trim elevates connectivity and driver aids, offering dual-zone climate control, a 9-inch color touchscreen with AMOLED resolution, and a 12-speaker Bang & Olufsen audio system. A premium leather-wrapped steering wheel and ambient interior lighting complete the ambiance, merging utility with luxury.

Inside the Cabin: Comfort Meets Tech in a Driver’s Paradise

Step inside, and the ren Toyota Pajero Sport 2026 cabin emerges as a sanctuary of functionality and refinement. The cabin prioritizes intuitive ergonomics while embracing Mitsubishi’s Vision X aesthetics — sharp lines, sustainable materials, and seamless integration of digital interfaces.

- Dual 10.25-inch screens deliver real-time off-road navigation, vehicle diagnostics, and media streaming.

- Heated, ventilated front seats with memory function adapt to long journeys or sudden weather shifts. - A new “Adventure Mode” adjusts suspension stiffness, throttle response, and climate settings for rugged terrain, switching from smooth cruising to precise trail maneuvering in seconds. - Ambient lighting scenes set moods — from crisp daylight ambiance to cozy warmth for evening drives.

- Minimalist yet durable trim materials resist wear without sacrificing elegance, featuring natural wood accents and soft-touch surfaces. “The interior balances rugged durability with modern warmth,” notes an interior design expert familiar with commercial benchmarks. “It’s not just a cabin — it’s a mobile command center designed for those who demand preparedness and comfort.”

Offshore-Tested Excellence: Built for Global and Australian Conditions

Before reaching Australian showrooms, the 2026 Pajero Sport underwent extensive validation across varied global terrains — from the karstic limestone landscapes of Croatia to the equatorial mud of Southeast Asia — and direct testing in Australia’s