If This Is The Next Pajero, Mitsubishi May Finally Be On To Something
Based on recent prototype sightings, the next Pajero has been imagined using Mitsubishi’s latest design language
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by Thanos Pappas
Fresh renderings attempt to decode the SUV’s rugged styling and camouflaged design cues.
Upright, boxy prototype may preview the long-anticipated Pajero or Pajero Sport successor.
SUV looks production-ready, but reports about its platform remain conflicting and unclear.
Update: We now have a clearer look at what the upcoming Pajero could look like, thanks to new illustrations based on the recently spotted prototype.
A camouflaged prototype recently spotted in Southern Europe has reignited interest in Mitsubishi’s rugged SUV lineup, fueling speculation about the long-awaited return of the Pajero (also known as Montero in some markets). With the latest spy shots as a reference, digital artist Theottle has produced a set of renderings that attempt to visualize what the upcoming model might look like.
The latest illustrations are based around the Nissan Patrol, adding elements from the recently-unveiled Destinator. That model, a three-row SUV tailored for ASEAN markets, rides on a front-wheel-drive unibody platform and isn’t related to the next-generation Pajero. Still, it provides an early look at Mitsubishi’s evolving design direction.
Illustrations: Theottle
Boxy Form, Familiar Features
Previously, our spies captured the prototype undergoing hot-weather testing, showing off its nearly production-ready bodywork and lighting setup. Multiple sightings gave us access to a wider range of angles, offering a clearer look at key exterior details.
Also: Next Mitsubishi Pajero Envisioned With Modern Boxy Looks And An Appetite For Land Cruisers
The vehicle ditches earlier test mule disguises in favor of more refined, cohesive styling. It carries a tall, square profile with an upright nose and proportions that echo traditional off-roaders.
The front end features vertically-stacked LED DRLs set beside a wide grille and a bold skid plate. Along the sides, the greenhouse bears a resemblance to the DST concept, while the rear brings to mind the latest Nissan Patrol, thanks to its vertical window, connected LED taillights, and an oversized skid plate that doubles as a diffuser.
What Lies Beneath
Rumors have pointed in several directions, with some suggesting the new model could ride on the Outlander’s unibody platform, while others anticipate a more traditional ladder-frame setup borrowed from the Nissan Patrol. A new possibility has now entered the mix. This theory places the upcoming Pajero on the chassis of the Triton pickup, effectively stepping in for the aging Pajero Sport.
The new SUV (above) compared to an earlier prototype of the next-gen Pajero Sport (below).
Australian outlet Drive, suggests that the production version of the pictured prototype could replace the Pajero Sport, with Mitsubishi set to drop the “Sport” badge entirely. Earlier reports indicated that the next generation of this ladder-frame SUV would move further away from the closely related Triton pickup in terms of exterior styling.
Even so, based on the latest spy shots, the SUV seems to have slightly different proportions compared to previous Pajero Sport test mules. On closer inspection, it might share more in common with the unibody Outlander, though with a noticeably shorter front overhang and a more upright windshield.
More: A Real Mitsubishi Ralliart SUV Could Be Closer Than You Think
The platform choice will ultimately shape the Pajero’s powertrain offerings. A version based on the Outlander’s CMF-C/D architecture would likely adopt the plug-in hybrid system producing 302 hp (225 kW / 306 PS). A ladder-frame chassis shared with the Triton would instead favor the 2.4-liter turbodiesel engine, delivering up to 201 hp (150 kW / 204 PS), with electrification expected to join the mix later.
A model derived from the Patrol seems less likely, considering its 316 hp (235 kW / 320 PS) twin-turbo V6 and heavier-duty aspirations.
Given the stage of development shown in the latest spy shots, the final model may debut before the end of 2025, bringing some long-awaited answers with it.
SH Proshots
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