New Mitsubishi Pajero Pricing Revealed in Australia

Mitsubishi has revealed the pricing for its new Pajero Sport in Australia, with the model launching on March 18, 2024. This release provides a significant clue for potential U.S. market pricing, as the Pajero nameplate has not been sold in the United States since 2006. The Australian market introduction includes three distinct trim levels: the GLX-R, the GLS, and the top-tier Exceed. These trims are equipped with a 2.4-liter four-cylinder turbo-diesel engine that produces 133kW of power and 430Nm of torque. This engine is paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission.

The entry-level GLX-R variant in Australia starts at AUD $56,490, which converts to approximately USD $37,300 as of March 2024. The GLS trim is priced at AUD $62,440 (approximately USD $41,300), and the flagship Exceed model commands AUD $69,440 (approximately USD $45,900). These figures are before any on-road costs, which can add a substantial amount to the final purchase price in Australia. The pricing structure in Australia is crucial for estimating what a potential U.S. version might cost, considering exchange rates, market positioning, and local taxes and fees.

While Mitsubishi has not officially confirmed a U.S. return for the Pajero, the strong performance and sales of its larger sibling, the Outlander, in the American market could encourage the automaker to reconsider. The Pajero Sport, known for its rugged off-road capabilities and robust construction, could appeal to a segment of the U.S. SUV market seeking a more traditional, body-on-frame utility vehicle. The current Australian models feature a suite of safety technologies, including adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, and lane-departure warning, indicating that a U.S. version would likely meet modern safety standards.

If Mitsubishi were to bring the Pajero back to the U.S., it would likely be positioned as a more affordable alternative to established large SUVs like the Toyota 4Runner or Ford Bronco. The Australian pricing suggests that a base model could potentially start in the mid-to-high USD $30,000s, with higher trims reaching into the USD $40,000s. However, the final U.S. pricing would depend on numerous factors, including the specific engine options offered, standard features, and the competitive landscape at the time of its potential launch. The absence of the Pajero from the U.S. market for nearly two decades means that any relaunch would require significant marketing efforts to re-establish brand recognition and consumer interest.