The return of the Mitsubishi Pajero has reignited nostalgia among SUV enthusiasts around the world. Five years after the iconic nameplate was discontinued, Mitsubishi has brought back the Pajero with a rugged ladder-frame chassis, diesel power and genuine off-road credentials.
While there are currently no plans to bring the new Pajero to India, its comeback highlights a growing demand for tough, purpose-built SUVs that prioritise capability over trends. The Pajero has long enjoyed a cult following in India, and it's not the only global icon enthusiasts would like to see here.
Here are five legendary SUVs that, like the Pajero, could be major crowd-pullers if they ever made their way to Indian showrooms.
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Ford Bronco
The Ford Bronco is one of the world's most recognisable off-road SUVs, combining retro-inspired styling with serious 4x4 capability. Built on a rugged body-on-frame platform, it comes standard with four-wheel drive and features terrain management systems, high ground clearance and water-wading ability.

Buyers can choose from multiple turbocharged petrol engines, including a range-topping V6, while removable doors and roof panels add to its adventure-focused appeal. Its blend of off-road prowess and everyday usability has made the Bronco one of Ford's most popular lifestyle SUVs.
Nissan Patrol
The Nissan Patrol is one of the most respected full-size SUVs in global markets, particularly in the Middle East, where it has built a reputation for durability and off-road capability. Built on a rugged body-on-frame platform, the Patrol combines strong 4x4 credentials with a spacious three-row cabin and powerful petrol engines, including a twin-turbo V6 in newer models.

Over the years, it has evolved from a utilitarian off-roader into a premium SUV, offering a blend of luxury, long-distance comfort and serious desert-driving ability that has earned it a loyal following worldwide.
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Toyota 4Runner
The Toyota 4Runner has built a global reputation as a rugged, body-on-frame SUV known for its durability and off-road capability. Unlike many modern SUVs that have moved to car-based platforms, the 4Runner retains its truck-derived construction, making it a favourite among off-road enthusiasts.

The latest generation offers turbocharged petrol and hybrid powertrains, advanced four-wheel-drive systems and dedicated off-road variants such as the TRD Pro and Trailhunter, while continuing to offer the practicality of a spacious cabin and strong resale value.
Tesla Cybertruck
The Tesla Cybertruck is one of the most unconventional vehicles on sale today, known for its angular design and stainless-steel body. The all-electric pickup combines futuristic styling with high performance, offering up to 845 hp in Cyberbeast form, rapid acceleration and a towing capacity of up to 11,000 lbs.

It also features advanced technologies such as steer-by-wire steering, an 800V electrical architecture and vehicle-to-load capability, making it one of the most talked-about EVs in the global market.
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GMC Hummer EV
The GMC Hummer EV is an all-electric SUV and pickup that reimagines the iconic Hummer for the EV era. Combining up to 1,000 hp with a rugged off-road-focused design, it features technologies such as CrabWalk four-wheel steering, adaptive air suspension and an 800V fast-charging architecture.

Despite its massive size, the Hummer EV delivers supercar-like acceleration while retaining serious off-road credentials, making it one of the most extreme electric vehicles on sale today.
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