In the early 1980s, Mitsubishi saw a growing demand for rugged off-road vehicles that could do more than just get dirty — they needed to be capable, comfortable, and reliable over long distances and tough terrain. This vision led to the creation of one of the most iconic 4WD vehicles in history: the Mitsubishi Pajero.
Why the Pajero Was Created
By the late 1970s, the off-road market was dominated by utilitarian vehicles like the Toyota Land Cruiser and the Land Rover Defender. Mitsubishi wanted to break into this space but with a different approach — to blend the off-road ability of a traditional 4×4 with the comfort of a passenger vehicle. The idea was simple: make a vehicle that could conquer the mountains by day and cruise the city streets by night.
The Debut: 1982
The first-generation Pajero officially launched in 1982 at the Tokyo Motor Show, and it was a game changer. Available initially as a 3-door short-wheelbase model, it quickly gained attention for its robust ladder frame chassis, powerful engine choices (including a 2.0L petrol and 2.3L turbo diesel), and optional Super Select 4WD system — which let drivers switch between 2WD and 4WD on the fly.
In 1983, a long-wheelbase 5-door version was released, which opened the Pajero up to families, tourers, and adventure seekers alike. It featured optional luxuries like air conditioning, power windows, and even a digital compass — cutting-edge at the time.
The Dakar Connection
What really put the Pajero on the map was its performance in motorsports, especially the Paris-Dakar Rally. Mitsubishi entered the first-gen Pajero in the race in 1983. It quickly established itself as a dominant force, eventually securing its first win in 1985. These victories weren’t just for show — the technology developed for rallying found its way into production vehicles, proving the Pajero’s durability and engineering.
Built for Australia
Australia fell in love with the Pajero almost immediately. Its balance of comfort and capability made it perfect for exploring the Outback, towing, or just tackling everyday family life. Many original first-gen Pajeros are still on the road today — a testament to their toughness and reliability.
Legacy of the First Gen
The first generation ran until 1991, when it was replaced by the second-gen model with more modern styling and tech. But even now, over 40 years later, the original Pajero is fondly remembered for setting the standard of what a true 4WD SUV could be.