What's the news?
Mitsubishi will relaunch a classic nameplate here early next year with the return of the Pajero Sport. The seven-seat SUV will fit into the range between the Outlander and the full-size Pajero.
Based on the chassis and structure as the L200 pickup, the Pajero Sport will use the same 2.4-litre diesel engine as the pickup, with 180hp and 430Nm of torque. There'll be an optional eight-speed automatic transmission and as standard it will come with Hill Descent Control, Trailer Start Assist (TSA), Hill Start Assist (HSA) and a dedicated off-road mode, which will allow a choice of driving modes that can be selected to suit differing types of terrain.
Assuming that Mitsubishi Ireland shadows the UK spec for launch, there will be two models, both of which will feature leather upholstery, keyless entry, LED daytime lights and a touchscreen infotainment system that includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
The top spec model will have heated seats, emergency autonomous braking, blind spot warning, and a 360-degree parking camera system.
Style-wise, while you can spot the L200 underneath, the nose definitely takes some inspiration from the rather handsome new Eclipse Cross, and it'll be practical too. Quite apart from the lofty ground clearance, if you fold down the back seats, then you've got a whopping 1,488-litre boot to play with.
Full specs and prices are still to be confirmed, and will be released closer to the launch date.