Pajero Sport’s Surprising Sales Surge: A Year-End Success Story Down Under
It might seem counterintuitive, but a vehicle that ceased production over a year ago is currently experiencing a remarkable upswing in sales figures across Australia. The Mitsubishi Pajero Sport, a stalwart of the off-road SUV segment, has defied expectations with a nearly 20 per cent year-on-year increase in deliveries, even as its remaining stock ages. This unexpected success story highlights the enduring appeal of the Pajero Sport for Australian buyers who value its robust capabilities and strong value proposition.
New vehicle sales data for Australia paints a compelling picture. In January and February of 2026, a total of 1047 Mitsubishi Pajero Sports found new homes. This represents a significant leap from the 881 units sold during the same period last year. While this figure might appear modest when stacked against segment leaders like the Ford Everest (3691 units), Toyota Prado (2665 units), and Isuzu MU-X (2423 units), the Pajero Sport’s performance is particularly noteworthy given its production status.
It also comfortably outsold several other contenders in the large off-road SUV category, including the GWM Tank 300 (795 units), the also-discontinued Toyota Fortuner (501 units), the LDV D90 (428 units), the Denza B5 (300 units), the GWM Tank 500 (189 units), and the KGM Rexton (104 units).
The Road to Revival: Pajero Sport’s Hiatus and the Future
The current Pajero Sport has been on hiatus in the Australian market since early 2025. This pause precedes the highly anticipated arrival of a new-generation SUV, expected to be based on the all-new Triton ute. This upcoming model is slated for release later this year or in early 2027, and it’s widely rumoured that the iconic “Pajero” nameplate will be revived for this new entrant.
The decision to cease production for the Australian market in Thailand ahead of schedule was driven by new safety regulations that came into effect on March 1, 2025. These regulations mandate the inclusion of autonomous emergency braking (AEB) technology, a feature the outgoing Pajero Sport did not meet.
Mitsubishi Australia proactively implemented a strategic “forward ordering program” to maintain sales momentum. This initiative aimed to bridge the gap until the brand’s new large SUV becomes available. A spokesperson for Mitsubishi Australia commented on the strategy:
“While we enacted a forward ordering program on Pajero Sport to sustain sales in preparation for our new Large SUV, it still remains in-demand for its value-packed specification and off-road capability.”
Limited Stock, Lasting Appeal
Despite the production halt, stock of the Pajero Sport remains available, though in diminishing quantities. Prospective buyers are advised to consult their local dealerships for the most up-to-date information on specific model availability.
To clear the remaining inventory, Mitsubishi is currently offering attractive national drive-away pricing. The GLX variant is available for $49,990, the GLS for $55,940, and the Exceed for $61,640. The range-topping GSR model appears to have already sold out, a testament to its popularity.
What’s Next for the Pajero Legacy?
The future of the Pajero nameplate in Australia is closely tied to the forthcoming new large SUV. This model, expected around 2027, will continue to be built on the robust ladder-frame chassis shared with the Triton ute and manufactured in Thailand, much like its predecessor.
However, significant enhancements are anticipated. The new Pajero is expected to increase in size, bringing it closer to the dimensions of competitors like the Ford Everest and Toyota LandCruiser Prado. Furthermore, it’s poised to offer a distinct identity from the Triton, with more substantial visual and interior differences.
Under the bonnet, the Pajero is likely to adopt Mitsubishi’s potent ‘4N16’ bi-turbo four-cylinder diesel engine. This powerplant, already found in the Triton, is expected to deliver outputs that match or surpass the ute’s 150kW and 470Nm, offering a notable upgrade from the outgoing Pajero Sport’s ‘4N15’ 133kW/430Nm single-turbo unit.
Towing capabilities are also set to see an improvement, with a projected braked towing capacity of 3.5 tonnes, an increase from the Pajero Sport’s 3.1 tonnes. These advancements suggest that the revived Pajero will be a formidable contender in the Australian large SUV market, carrying forward the legacy of its predecessors with modern technology and enhanced performance.
