Mitsubishi officially confirms the return of the legendary Pajero SUV
Mitsubishi has finally put an end to years of rumors by officially confirming the global return of its most famous SUV. The Japanese automaker has released a teaser of the new Pajero, which will also be sold under the Montero name in some markets. Details regarding availability in different markets are not yet disclosed, but the return of the Montero name is a strong hint that North America may be in Mitsubishi’s plans this time.
The new Pajero is based on the ladder frame chassis of the Triton pickup truck
The new Pajero is built on the ladder frame platform that underpins the Triton pickup. This puts it in line with the outdated Pajero Sport, rather than the original Pajero. However, Mitsubishi pitches it differently, promising “model-specific development of the cabin, front and rear suspension,” as well as “outstanding off-road capabilities” and “comfortable and smooth driving.” Such wording indicates that in terms of market positioning, the new model will be closer to the full-fledged Pajero.
Design and comparison with the Toyota Land Cruiser
The teaser focuses on the lighting: elongated T-shaped LEDs frame the Mitsubishi emblem. The headlight design does not match the model teased in January 2026, although this difference could be due to camouflage or different trim levels. Previously published spy photos show a straight, “boxy” SUV with muscular fenders — proportions that invite direct comparison with the Toyota Land Cruiser.
Flagship status and launch timeline
Mitsubishi calls the new model a “cross-country SUV” and its new flagship, placing it above the unibody Outlander in the model lineup hierarchy. The premiere is scheduled for autumn 2026, five years after the production of the previous generation ended.
Historical context and target markets
Historically, Mitsubishi sold the Pajero under the Montero name in North America, South America, Spain, and the Philippines, so these markets have justified grounds to lay claim to the new generation. The original Pajero was introduced in 1982 with the goal of combining the off-road capabilities of a four-wheel-drive vehicle with the comfort of a passenger car. The model sold over 3.25 million units in more than 170 countries across four generations and achieved 12 victories in the Dakar Rally.
Mitsubishi has announced the return of the iconic Pajero SUV.
The new flagship SUV is based on the ladder frame chassis from the Triton.
The debut will take place in autumn 2026; in some markets, the model will be sold as the Montero.
The return of the Pajero is not just a nostalgic move, but a strategic decision by Mitsubishi to occupy a niche that is currently being actively filled by new models from Toyota (Land Cruiser 250) and other manufacturers. Using the proven ladder frame platform from the Triton helps reduce development costs, but the promise of a “model-specific” suspension indicates that engineers aim to preserve the legendary on-road comfort of the Pajero, which once set it apart from competitors. Given its history of 12 Dakar victories, the new model has serious potential to become not just another SUV, but a true symbol of the brand’s revival.