Even though Mitsubishi has officially exited car manufacturing in India, its legacy still echoes loudly among SUV lovers across the country. One name in particular — the Mitsubishi Pajero Sport — continues to hold a special place in the hearts of enthusiasts. Now, with the 2024 Pajero Sport officially launched in Thailand, interest is once again surging among fans who remember its rugged persona.
🚗 Still No Comeback for India—But What If?
Earlier this year, Mitsubishi surprised many by entering a retail joint venture with TVS Mobility, hinting at a return to the Indian automotive scene. But so far, the partnership hasn’t translated into new models or local production. Had Mitsubishi kept its manufacturing alive in India, the all-new Pajero Sport could have easily become a top contender in the premium SUV segment.
Let’s explore what makes the 2024 Pajero Sport a serious head-turner globally—and why Indian SUV lovers wish it was launching here too.
Price & Segment Positioning: Premium Muscle with a Legacy
The new Pajero Sport starts at THB 1,389,000 and goes up to THB 1,689,000 in Thailand, roughly equivalent to ₹32–₹39 lakh in India. While the silhouette remains faithful to its earlier design, Mitsubishi has modernized the look with new touches both inside and out.
Bold Design Refresh with Rugged Presence
Visually, the 2024 model carries forward its muscular design language but features a refreshed front grille, flanked by bi-LED projector headlamps with automatic beam leveling. The front end now looks sharper and more assertive.
Other key design upgrades include:
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Redesigned LED DRLs and sleeker fog lamps
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New rear LED tail light design
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Bigger and bolder 18-inch alloy wheels
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Improved ground clearance, now at 222 mm
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Rain-sensing wipers and a hands-free electric tailgate
Inside the Cabin: Comfort Meets Technology
Step inside, and the Pajero Sport offers an impressively modern interior. Borrowing the multi-function steering wheel from the new Triton, it blends rugged charm with tech-forward features.
Notable interior highlights include:
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Large infotainment system with wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay
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8-inch digital instrument cluster
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Leather seats with electrically adjustable front seats
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Keyless entry, push-button start, and electronic parking brake
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A premium 12.1-inch roof-mounted entertainment screen for rear passengers, complete with wireless headphones — a rare touch of luxury
Upgraded Powertrain: More Torque, Better Control
Under the hood, the 2024 Pajero Sport now features a 2.4L 4-cylinder turbo diesel engine (4N16), producing 184 PS of power and 430 Nm of torque. It replaces the older engine and brings better efficiency and performance.
In a surprising move, Mitsubishi has swapped the previous 8-speed automatic with a new 6-speed automatic transmission, shared with the latest-gen Triton. Buyers can also choose between rear-wheel drive (RWD) and all-wheel drive (AWD) configurations, making it versatile for various driving conditions.
Safety First: Loaded with Driver Aids
Mitsubishi hasn’t cut corners when it comes to safety. The new Pajero Sport includes:
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7 airbags
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ADAS suite with advanced driver assistance features
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Steering-mounted paddle shifters
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Auto-dimming IRVM for added driving ease
Final Word: A Missed Opportunity for Indian Roads
The 2024 Pajero Sport is making waves in Thailand, and rightfully so—it combines tough SUV DNA, a luxurious cabin, and a suite of modern features. For Indian fans, however, it’s a bittersweet moment.
Had Mitsubishi stayed active in the Indian market, this new Pajero Sport could have carved out a serious niche in the ₹30–₹40 lakh segment. For now, we can only hope the brand’s growing partnership with TVS signals a broader revival plan.
Until then, the Pajero Sport remains an icon that still roars — just not on Indian roads.
