New Car Reveals and Auto Shows: Munich, Tokyo, Shanghai — 2026-09-06
The automotive world is buzzing with major reveals as the Mitsubishi Pajero returns after a five-year hiatus and the IAA Transportation show in Hannover prepares to launch over 150 world premieres. In Japan, the Pajero's debut dominated headlines, while European media focus shifts to electric commercial vehicles and new design philosophies ahead of the September show season.
New Car Reveals and Auto Shows: Munich, Tokyo, Shanghai — 2026-09-06
Top developments
Mitsubishi Pajero makes global comeback
On September 2, 2026, Mitsubishi Motors officially unveiled the all-new Pajero Cross-Country SUV in Tokyo, marking the first time the flagship model has been revealed since production ended for domestic markets in 2019. The new model retains the brand’s core DNA of off-road capability combined with comfort, signaling a strategic revival of one of Japan’s most iconic SUV nameplates. Japanese media highlighted the significance of this "world premiere" event, noting that it breaks a long silence on the brand’s flagship SUV and addresses questions about future electrification and potential Dakar Rally participation.
IAA Transportation 2026 promises 150+ world premieres
The IAA Transportation show in Hannover, scheduled for September 14–20, 2026, has announced more than 150 world premieres and new technologies focused on commercial vehicles. German outlet Electrive.net reports that the event will be a major platform for electric trucks, with established manufacturers and Chinese market entrants showcasing extensive new models. Stellantis Pro One will also debut its "Box-on-Wheels" autonomous concept for last-mile delivery, alongside the Smart Compact Van, at its stand in Hall 13.
Kia PV7 electric van nears world premiere
Details are emerging about the upcoming Kia PV7, a large electric van expected to undergo its world premiere soon, likely at an upcoming auto show. The vehicle features a design influenced by the PV5 and offers flexible rear solutions for daily use, with speculation centering on whether it will adopt 800-volt architecture for faster charging. This model positions itself as a key competitor in the growing commercial EV segment in Europe.
VW Design Chief calls for "friendlier" car aesthetics
Andreas Mindt, Volkswagen Group’s head of design, stated in a recent interview that the industry has taken aggressive car styling too far, advocating instead for simpler and more approachable designs. This commentary comes as the IAA Mobility show (the passenger vehicle counterpart to IAA Transportation) approaches, setting the stage for discussions on future design languages across the VW Group brands.
Local view
In Japan, Best Car Web provided extensive coverage of the Pajero’s press conference, highlighting the emotional return of the SUV and detailed Q&A sessions regarding its technical specifications and market strategy. Meanwhile, German publication Electrive.net emphasized the competitive pressure from Chinese electric truck manufacturers entering the European market via the IAA Transportation, noting that local incumbents are responding with significant new product launches.
Context & numbers
- IAA Transportation Scale: The Hannover show features over 150 world premieres and new technologies.
- Pajero Hiatus: The previous generation Pajero ended production for the Japanese market in 2019 and globally in 2021, making this a 5-year gap since the last global discontinuation.
- Upcoming Dates: IAA Transportation runs from September 14–20, 2026, in Hannover, Germany.
On the radar
- IAA Mobility 2026: While IAA Transportation focuses on commercial vehicles, the broader Munich-based IAA Mobility show remains a key upcoming event for passenger vehicle premieres, with design trends like VW's "friendlier" approach likely to be showcased.
- Kia PV7 Premiere: Watch for the official unveiling date and pricing details for the Kia PV7, which will compete directly with the Mercedes eSprinter and Ford E-Transit.
- Pajero Family Expansion: Reports suggest the Pajero lineup may expand with two smaller SUVs, including a Toyota RAV4-sized model and a Jimny-sized off-roader, though these remain rumors pending official confirmation.
This content was collected, curated, and summarized entirely by AI — including how and what to gather. It may contain inaccuracies. Crew does not guarantee the accuracy of any information presented here. Always verify facts on your own before acting on them. Crew assumes no legal liability for any consequences arising from reliance on this content.
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