Electric Cars

Mitsubishi recently unveiled a striking Pajero Rally Concept, featuring vibrant Ralliart branding, alongside a replica of the Triton ASXR rally truck. This display immediately fueled hopes for a high-performance production model, reminiscent of the Pajero's illustrious history in the Dakar Rally. However, these aspirations were quickly tempered by an executive statement, indicating that such a vehicle is not currently slated for production.

Kunitoshi Itagaki, Mitsubishi's chief product specialist, explicitly stated that there are no concrete plans to introduce a production version of the Pajero Ralliart. He clarified that the company is merely exploring the feasibility of such a project. Despite the absence of a confirmed performance model, Itagaki underscored the enduring significance of Ralliart's heritage to Mitsubishi. The showcased concept, in its essence, is more of a stylistic exploration designed to honor the Pajero's past rally achievements rather than foreshadowing a new performance-oriented vehicle.

The standard Pajero, a robust body-on-frame SUV built upon a Triton-derived ladder frame, is positioned as a premium off-road vehicle. It features a 2.4-liter turbodiesel engine producing 201 horsepower and 354 lb-ft of torque, coupled with an eight-speed automatic transmission and Super Select 4WD II. The fully redesigned Pajero made its global debut on September 2, 2026, with initial market releases planned for Thailand, Japan, and Australia in fiscal year 2026, followed by a broader expansion to approximately 100 countries starting in fiscal year 2027.

The Rally Concept itself, apart from its Ralliart decals, is largely a demonstration of available accessories. It incorporates bolt-on additions such as front and rear fender extensions, a custom C-pillar cover, red skid plates, and a snorkel. These components are fitted directly onto the standard Pajero chassis, without any modifications to the engine or underlying structure. Mitsubishi is currently assessing the possibility of making these or similar accessories available through official distribution channels, suggesting a potential avenue for customers to customize their standard Pajero with a rally-inspired aesthetic.

While a hybrid powertrain variant is anticipated to complement the diesel offering in the future, the immediate focus remains on the turbodiesel configuration and the established ladder frame architecture. The display of the Pajero Rally Concept allows Mitsubishi to gauge public interest in the Ralliart brand without committing to the extensive development of a full-fledged performance model. Should the company proceed with offering these bolt-on accessories as official options, it would signal a clear intention to cater to the demand for the Ralliart aesthetic. Furthermore, the introduction of hybrid powertrains will be a key development to observe in the evolving Pajero lineup.

Mercedes-AMG is poised to redefine automotive exclusivity with the upcoming CLE 63 Mythos, an extraordinary performance coupe slated for a 2027 debut. This highly anticipated model, following the SL PureSpeed in the Mythos series, promises a blend of raw power, aggressive design, and extreme rarity, positioning it as a coveted collector's item and a track-focused beast.

The Mercedes-AMG CLE 63 Mythos is currently undergoing rigorous development, with Mercedes-AMG even utilizing the Nürburgring for private testing sessions. This indicates a profound commitment to pushing the boundaries of performance beyond that of a typical high-performance coupe. The vehicle is engineered to be a true special model, drawing inspiration from track-focused machines rather than merely a more potent version of the standard CLE.

Early renderings suggest a dramatically restyled exterior, featuring a more assertive front fascia where the bodywork appears meticulously sculpted around the mechanical components. A prominent hood with a large air intake, observed on recent prototypes, will be a key functional and aesthetic element, aiding in engine cooling. The rear design is equally aggressive, highlighted by a substantial rear wing that far exceeds what is typically found on road-going coupes, along with distinctive stacked exhaust outlets. To achieve significant weight reduction, extensive use of carbon fiber is expected across numerous body panels, enhancing the car's agility and overall performance.

At the heart of the CLE 63 Mythos lies a celebration of the V8 engine, a move that distinguishes it within AMG's evolving lineup. Speculation points to a new twin-turbocharged flat-plane-crank V8 engine, delivering approximately 641 horsepower. While final specifications are yet to be confirmed by Mercedes-AMG, this formidable power output is expected to propel the Mythos into the supercar category, offering an uncompromising driving experience. This level of power would place it significantly above standard CLE variants.

Adding to its allure, rumors suggest that production of the CLE 63 Mythos will be severely limited, with only about 30 units planned for global distribution. This strategy aligns with the Mythos family's philosophy of crafting ultra-exclusive vehicles for a select clientele, intended to represent the pinnacle of the Mercedes-AMG range. Such scarcity will undoubtedly lead to a substantial price premium, making it a highly desirable asset for automotive enthusiasts and collectors.

The Mercedes-AMG CLE 63 Mythos represents a fusion of exceptional power, bespoke design, and unparalleled exclusivity. Its track-honed capabilities, combined with a rumored limited production run, are set to solidify its status as a collector's dream and a monumental achievement in high-performance automotive engineering. This model is poised to become a defining statement for Mercedes-AMG, showcasing their dedication to crafting vehicles that stand apart in both performance and prestige.