- Mitsubishi announced the return of the iconic Pajero off-roader.
- The new flagship SUV rides on a Triton-derived ladder-frame chassis.
- It will debut in autumn 2026, sold as the Montero in certain markets.
Mitsubishi has finally put years of rumors to rest by officially announcing the global comeback of its most iconic off-road nameplate. The Japanese automaker released an official teaser for a new Pajero that will also return as the Montero in some markets, hopefully including North America.
The new Pajero will ride on the ladder-frame underpinnings of the Triton pickup, pointing out to a successor of the aging Pajero Sport. However, Mitsubishi said it will have “model-specific development of the cabin and front and rear suspension”, promising “outstanding off-road capability” as well as a “refined and comfortable ride”. This places it closer to the regular Pajero in terms of market positioning.
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The new teaser focuses on the lighting signature, with elongated T-shaped LEDs pointing to the Mitsubishi emblem. The headlight setup is not the same with a model teased on January 2026, but it could always be a matter of camouflage or different trim levels.
Earlier spy shots reveal an SUV with an upright stance, boxy proportions, and muscular fenders, hinting at a worthy rival for the Toyota Land Cruiser.
The company calls the upcoming “cross-country SUV” its new flagship, suggesting it will be priced above the unibody Outlander. The premiere of the new Pajero is scheduled for autumn 2026, which is five years after the discontinuation of the previous generation.
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Mitsubishi historically rebadged the Pajero as the Montero in North America, South America, Spain, and the Philippines, meaning that those markets have a strong chance of getting the new generation.
The original Pajero was introduced in 1982, with the goal of combining the off-road performance of a 4WD with the comfort of a passenger car. The model has sold over 3.25 million units in over 170 countries across four generations, and has secured a total of 12 victories at the Dakar Rally.
