15:19 06-02-2026

Mitsubishi unveils new Pajero prototype with off-road capabilities

Mitsubishi reveals a production-ready Pajero prototype with angular design, 4N16 diesel engine, and Super Select 4WD-II system. Expected to compete with Toyota Land Cruiser and Ford Everest.

After five years of silence, Mitsubishi has rolled out a nearly production-ready prototype of the new Pajero/Montero on European roads. As expected, the design has become more angular and closely resembles the Elevance concept. Underneath the body lies the ladder-frame architecture from the Triton—a layout confirmed in the Challenger 2025 strategic plan.

Despite heavy camouflage, the body contours, vertical front end, and massive wheel arches clearly echo the Elevance concept, first shown in Japan in 2025. The prototype features running boards and a long wheelbase, suggesting serious off-road capability. Production, according to industry sources, will be established in Thailand—Mitsubishi's key export hub.

Under the hood, the expected diesel engine is the 4N16. Its twin-turbo version delivers 201 horsepower and 470 Nm of torque, making it the most likely choice for Australia and other markets where low-end grunt is crucial. The Super Select 4WD-II system should be standard: it supports full-time four-wheel drive on any surface and a dedicated 4LLc mode for serious off-roading.

The returning Pajero enters a segment that is growing rapidly, thanks to models like the Toyota Land Cruiser 250, Ford Everest, and Nissan Patrol/Armada. The Land Cruiser remains the benchmark for combining capability and reliability, though it relies on more expensive powertrains and targets premium demand. The Ford Everest, built on the Ranger platform, stands out for its balance of modern driver aids and torquey diesels, but it falls short of Mitsubishi in terms of off-road mode variety and maintenance costs.

The Nissan Patrol offers a powerful V8 and large dimensions, but its aging platform is increasingly a limitation outside the Middle East. With the Triton frame, a new bi-turbo diesel, and confirmed global assembly, the Pajero could carve out a niche as a more affordable yet serious expedition SUV. The interior will be a crucial factor: Mitsubishi's current solutions are more functional than luxurious, and the company must elevate the model to meet segment expectations, or the technological edge of competitors will become apparent.