Next-Gen Mitsubishi Pajero Spied Testing in Europe – A Legendary Comeback on the Cards?

Mitsubishi’s iconic off-roader might be gearing up for a global return.

Mitsubishi’s legendary nameplate – Pajero – could soon be making a comeback, as a new test mule was recently spotted testing in Europe. The SUV, heavily camouflaged yet unmistakably bold in stance, has reignited hope among fans and off-road enthusiasts across the globe.

A Legacy Revisited

The Pajero, also known globally as the Mitsubishi Montero or Shogun, was discontinued in 2021 after a production run that spanned nearly four decades. The SUV built a cult following due to its robust build, unmatched off-road prowess, and rally-bred legacy, including multiple Dakar Rally wins. In India, the Pajero was sold between 2002 and 2012, with a few units even being inducted into the Indian Army fleet. Its replacement, the Pajero Sport, was also later discontinued in India around 2020.

Spy Shots Reveal a Bold New Design

The new-gen Pajero test mule, caught on camera in Europe, indicates a thorough evolution over the outgoing model. Despite camouflage, key elements hint at a boxy and upright silhouette, high ground clearance, and muscular design, all of which are signatures of traditional off-roaders.

Key exterior highlights:

• Sharper design than the 4th-gen Pajero
• Upright front fascia with a clamshell bonnet
• Large front grille with horizontal slats
• Vertical LED DRLs and sleek headlamps
• Prominent bumpers and squared wheel arches
• 19 or 20-inch alloy wheels with sporty geometric spoke design
• Running boards, roof rails, and shark-fin antenna
• Vertically stacked tail lamps – possibly connected by a full-width LED light bar
• A large rear skid plate, which could double as a diffuser
• Clearly visible exhaust pipe, confirming it’s ICE (internal combustion engine) powered

The overall shape and presence indicate a strong focus on ruggedness, with long suspension travel hinting at serious off-road intent.

Ladder Frame or Monocoque? The Big Question

One of the major talking points is whether Mitsubishi will retain the Pajero’s ladder-frame chassis or switch to a more modern monocoque layout.

• If it retains the ladder frame, it could share its platform with the Mitsubishi Triton / L200 pickup, which is built for heavy-duty use and extreme terrains. This setup would appeal strongly to traditionalists and off-road fans.
• On the other hand, reports suggest a possible shift to a monocoque chassis, likely the Renault-Nissan CMF-C/D platform that currently underpins the Mitsubishi Outlander. This would hint at a more comfort-oriented, urban SUV positioning – suitable for global markets looking for a balance between on-road comfort and occasional off-roading.

Powertrain Possibilities

While exact specifications are yet to be revealed, the visible exhaust pipe confirms that the prototype is not an EV. Mitsubishi may offer the next-gen Pajero with:

• Petrol and diesel engine options, depending on the market
• A potential plug-in hybrid version in the future to comply with global emissions regulations
• A possible turbo-petrol powertrain for select markets

Will It Come to India?

Mitsubishi’s operations in India have been dormant for a while, and the brand hasn’t introduced any new product here in years. The chances of the next-gen Pajero launching in India appear slim as of now. However, given the growing popularity of large SUVs in India, and the revival of several discontinued global models, nothing can be ruled out entirely.

Mitsubishi’s alliance partners – Renault and Nissan – are preparing to launch multiple new vehicles in India under their CMF-B platform. If Mitsubishi chooses to piggyback on this momentum, the Pajero name could find its way back into Indian showrooms — possibly under a new sub-brand or joint venture.

Expected Debut

As per global media reports, the next-gen Mitsubishi Pajero could make its official debut later this year. Whether it will be called “Pajero,” “Montero,” or an entirely new name remains to be seen.