The Mitsubishi Pajero, also known as the Montero in some markets, is set to make a grand comeback in 2025. With a legacy spanning 40 years and over 3 million units sold, this iconic SUV was discontinued in the U.S. in 2006. However, as SUVs continue to dominate the market and with a renewed interest in off-roading vehicles like the Bronco and Defender, Mitsubishi is seizing the opportunity to reintroduce the Pajero as a luxury off-roader for a new generation.
What’s Updated in New 2025 Pajero’s Design?
As the new Mitsubishi Pajero is still in the early stages of development, official details are scarce. However, several automotive artists have speculated on its design using Mitsubishi’s current design language. Among these, the renderings by Enoch Gonzalez stand out, showcasing a modern, boxy look with a prominent upright front end. The large grill, adorned with a Mitsubishi badge and t-shaped LED running lights, gives the vehicle a commanding presence.
The side profile is clean and flat, with a few high-end touches such as flush door handles and a black-accented roof that contrasts beautifully with the vibrant orange body color. The fixed plastic running boards, while less luxurious than powered alternatives, contribute to the Pajero’s rugged Overlander aesthetic. For those seeking a more upscale look, a monochrome trim accented by aluminum details could add a touch of elegance.
Exterior Features That Make a Statement
The rear of the new Pajero continues the design language with an upright back end featuring t-shaped light designs. One of the most intriguing elements is the faux spare tire look—a hexagonal shape that protrudes into the rear window, creating a distinctive visual appeal while leaving space for the license plate.
Another design interpretation by Car Scoops offers a more familiar look that aligns with Mitsubishi’s current lineup, although it may appear less premium. Despite this, reports suggest that Mitsubishi is aiming to take the new Pajero upmarket, positioning it as a value-oriented alternative to more expensive SUVs like the Defender or Grenadier.
Inside the New 2025 Pajero
When it comes to interiors, Mitsubishi is not traditionally known for opulence. However, the Outlander Seal Premium trim has raised the bar with features like semi-aniline leather and diamond-stitched seats. If the new Pajero follows suit, it could offer a similarly luxurious interior. Renderings suggest a combination of saddle leather and black contrasts on the door panels and dashboard, creating a refined atmosphere.
A fully digital gauge cluster and a well-proportioned infotainment screen are expected to be standard. One potential drawback is the bulky shifter in the center console, which could take up valuable space. A smaller, electronic shifter could be a welcome change, freeing up the console for additional storage.
High-End Features and Modern Amenities
The new Mitsubishi Pajero is expected to come equipped with an array of high-end features as standard, with additional options available. These may include a heads-up display, Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, three-zone climate control, and heated, ventilated, and massaging front seats. Rear passengers could enjoy heated seats, while conveniences like a power liftgate and power-folding rear seats are also likely to be offered.
While it’s still unclear if the Pajero will include a third row of seats, it seems plausible given that the vehicle is expected to be slightly longer than the Outlander. Mitsubishi could opt to use the CMF-CD platform from the Outlander or, if the Pajero grows significantly in size, it may borrow Nissan’s F-Alpha platform, currently used in the Armada and QX80. With Nissan holding a controlling interest in Mitsubishi, increased collaboration between the two brands is expected.
Power and Performance
Performance-wise, the Pajero could feature a beefed-up version of the Outlander’s hybrid powertrain, potentially delivering around 400 horsepower through a 2.4L inline 4-cylinder engine coupled with electric motors on each axle. Another possibility is the twin-turbo V6 used in the QX80, capable of producing 450 horsepower and 500 lb-ft of torque. Regardless of the engine choice, the Pajero will be a 4×4 with enhanced off-roading capabilities, surpassing the Outlander and other smaller Mitsubishi SUVs.
Is the New Pajero the Right Move for Mitsubishi?
Bringing back the Pajero as a luxury off-road SUV seems to be a strategic move for Mitsubishi. The Outlander Seal Premium currently serves as the brand’s flagship model, and the addition of a more luxurious and capable SUV could significantly boost Mitsubishi’s image. A larger model like the Pajero would also enable Mitsubishi to reach a broader customer base and increase sales sustainably, offering a high-quality SUV that delivers excellent value.
This could be Mitsubishi’s “Telluride moment,” positioning the Pajero as a pivotal model in revitalizing the brand. While it doesn’t need to be a high-volume seller initially, the Pajero’s role in improving Mitsubishi’s brand image and marketability is crucial. This model represents a significant step in Mitsubishi’s 2030 plan to expand aggressively, particularly in the American market, by opening more dealerships, renovating existing ones, and introducing one new model each year from 2026 to 2030.
What’s Next for the Pajero?
The new Mitsubishi Pajero is expected to debut in 2025, with sales starting in 2026. The starting price is anticipated to be in the low $40,000 range, making it a more affordable alternative to the Defender, Grenadier, and even the Land Cruiser, Grand Cherokee, and Grand Highlander.
As we look forward to the official unveiling, there’s plenty of excitement surrounding the return of the Pajero. This all-new luxury 4×4 is poised to play a crucial role in Mitsubishi’s strategy to revitalize its brand and expand its market presence. What are your thoughts on the new Pajero? Share your opinions in the comments below!
