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Pajero/Montero returns: spied and production-ready
The Pajero — known as Montero in some markets — is officially back after a five-year break. Recently teased by Mitsubishi's Ralliart division, the next-generation model has been photographed in Europe wearing production-level bodywork, confirming many of the design cues first shown on the Elevance concept.
Design: Elevance concept influences the new look
Although the new Pajero keeps a deliberately boxy silhouette, it borrows several signature elements from the Elevance concept revealed at the 2025 Japan Mobility Show. Expect an upright grille and T-shaped daytime running lights up front, sharp vertical surfaces along the sides and rear, pronounced flared wheel arches, and truck-style running boards on camouflaged prototypes. The overall stance reads more like a rugged SUV built from pickup DNA than a soft-roader.
Underpinnings and production details
Mitsubishi has confirmed through its Challenger 2025 plan that the new Pajero/Montero is a body-on-frame vehicle that shares underpinnings with the L200/Triton pickup. That platform gives the Pajero serious towing and load credentials: the L200/Triton is rated to tow up to 3.5 tons (7,716 lb) and carries roughly 1,115 kg (2,458 lb) of payload on typical configurations.
Multiple industry sources say Mitsubishi will build the flagship SUV in Thailand, where the automaker operates its largest production complex outside Japan. The Laem Chabang industrial area houses multiple assembly plants and an engine production facility that already builds the four-cylinder turbo diesel used in the Triton/L200 and Pajero Sport — making Thailand a natural hub for the new model.
Powertrain and transmissions
Under the hood, the strong candidate for several markets — notably Australia — is Mitsubishi's 4N16 four-cylinder bi-turbo diesel. In bi-turbo tune this unit delivers around 150 kW (201 hp) at 3,500 rpm and 470 Nm (347 lb-ft) from about 1,500 to 2,750 rpm. As of February 2026, expected transmission pairings include a six-speed manual and a six-speed automatic.
By contrast, the current Pajero Sport uses a single-turbo variant of the same family, rated at about 133 kW (178 hp) and 430 Nm (317 lb-ft), and is paired with an eight-speed automatic in that model — showing Mitsubishi will likely tailor powertrain options to different trims and markets.
Off-road hardware: built to go places
Off-road capability appears to be a focus. Super Select 4WD-II should be standard, offering a center differential and the ability to run 4H on any surface. For tough terrain there is a 4LLc mode — four low with a 50:50 torque split between axles — which hints the Pajero will remain a serious overlander rather than a mere lifestyle SUV.
Highlights:
- Body-on-frame architecture derived from L200/Triton
- 4N16 bi-turbo diesel: ~150 kW and 470 Nm
- Super Select 4WD-II with 4LLc low-range mode
- Likely assembly at Laem Chabang, Thailand
Interior and market positioning
One open question is the cabin. With Mitsubishi under the Nissan umbrella, expect conservative but well-executed interiors that share technology and parts with sibling models like the Outlander. That means modern infotainment and driver aids but perhaps fewer radical design departures. The new Pajero seems positioned as a true midsize, tow-capable flagship with off-road cred — likely replacing the Pajero Sport in many markets and taking aim at rivals such as the Nissan Patrol/Armada family.
Whether you care about form or function, the 2026 Pajero/Montero promises to combine pickup-bred toughness with contemporary design cues from the Elevance concept. Keep an eye on official reveal dates and regional lineups — diesel buyers in Australia and several export markets will probably see the 4N16 engine as the frontrunner.
"This looks like a Pajero that remembers its roots," said one enthusiast at the sighting. "Boxy, capable, and ready for the long road."
Source: autoevolution
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