New Car Reveals and Auto Shows: Munich, Tokyo, Shanghai — 2026-10-31
Mitsubishi Motors has announced the launch date and pricing for its highly anticipated new-generation Pajero, marking a major return for the iconic SUV in Japan. Meanwhile, European media is highlighting a strategic shift in design, with brands like Citroën and Renault leveraging heritage icons to compete against the influx of Chinese electric vehicles showcased recently in Paris.
New Car Reveals and Auto Shows: Munich, Tokyo, Shanghai — 2026-10-31
Top developments
Mitsubishi Pajero Launch Date and Pricing Confirmed
Mitsubishi Motors officially announced on October 29, 2026, that the new-generation Pajero will go on sale in Japan on December 17. The fifth-generation model, positioned as a flagship cross-country SUV, features a development concept of "First-class & All-rounder CHARISMA." Pricing ranges from 6.193 million yen to 7.958 million yen. Pre-orders have exceeded targets, with approximately 5,500 reservations received by late October, surpassing the initial annual goal of 4,000 units.
EICMA 2026 Motorcycle Previews
Ahead of the EICMA show opening in November, several major motorcycle manufacturers have already released specifications and pricing for upcoming models. Key debuts include the Triumph Tiger 1200 2027, which features two radars and drops the 21-inch front wheel, starting at €22,795. Kawasaki has confirmed the KLE650 at €8,290, while Moto Guzzi has officially presented The Trip 500. These early reveals set the stage for the industry's largest motorcycle exhibition.
European Design Strategy vs. Chinese EVs
In a recent analysis published on October 29, Fast Company highlighted how European automakers are using their design history as a competitive weapon against Chinese manufacturers. Following the Paris Motor Show, where Chinese EVs dominated volume, brands like Citroën (with the 2 CV Concept) and Renault are reviving iconic nameplates to appeal to nostalgia and brand heritage, aiming to differentiate themselves from the high-tech but historically newer Chinese entrants.
Local view
Japan: Mitsubishi's Strategic Return Japanese automotive media, including Motor Fan and Response.jp, are focusing heavily on the commercial success of the new Pajero's pre-order phase. The strong uptake of 5,500 units in just one month is being interpreted as a significant vote of confidence in Mitsubishi's ability to revive a dormant nameplate in a market increasingly dominated by crossovers and EVs.
Germany: IAA Transportation Highlights German press coverage continues to reflect on the IAA Transportation 2026, with TIR transNews noting the event's role as a "pace-setter" for the industry. The focus remains on the rapid adoption of electric trucks, with over 150 world premieres and innovations in megawatt charging and automated solutions previously showcased in September.
Context & numbers
- Pricing: The new Mitsubishi Pajero ranges from 6.193 million JPY to 7.958 million JPY.
- Pre-orders: Mitsubishi Pajero reservations hit ~5,500 units, exceeding the 4,000-unit annual target.
- Motorcycle Prices: Triumph Tiger 1200 2027 starts at €22,795; Kawasaki KLE650 is priced at €8,290.
On the radar
- Nissan Sentra SPEC-V Concept: Nissan will debut this 300hp, 6MT sports concept at the SEMA Show in Las Vegas, November 3–6, 2026.
- Japan Car of the Year: The 33 nominees for the "Japan Car of the Year 2026-2027" were announced, including the Suzuki e SKY.
- Toyota Hiace Concepts: Toyota showcased two "Hiace" branded concepts at the Japan Mobility Show, hinting at a future full model change for the van.
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