Next-Gen Mitsubishi Pajero Renderings Reveal Bold Off-Road Revival Design

The legendary Mitsubishi Pajero, an icon of off-road prowess absent since 2021, appears poised for a dramatic resurrection. New renderings by digital artist Theottle—based on recent prototype sightings in Southern Europe—suggest a striking fusion of heritage toughness and contemporary aesthetics. These visuals decode camouflaged test vehicles showing a squared-off silhouette and advanced lighting, hinting at Mitsubishi’s ambitious bid to reclaim its throne in the rugged SUV segment. Industry analysts note the timing aligns with growing demand for adventure-ready vehicles, positioning the Mitsubishi Pajero revival as a potential challenger to the Toyota Land Cruiser and Ford Bronco.

Design Evolution: Boxy Heritage Meets Futuristic Tech

Theottle’s renderings extrapolate from spy shots revealing a production-ready body with upright proportions, vertical LED headlights, and a prominent skid plate. The design echoes the classic Pajero’s boxy stance but incorporates Mitsubishi’s “Dynamic Shield” language seen in newer models like the Outlander. Key features include:

• Vertical lighting elements flanking a wide grille
• Short front overhangs enhancing approach angles
• Tapered greenhouse resembling Mitsubishi’s DST Concept
• Connected LED taillights and integrated rear diffuser

Notably, prototypes show minimal disguise around critical areas, suggesting final styling is locked in. Automotive design expert Paul Horrell notes: “The proportions signal serious off-road intent—high ground clearance, flat surfaces, and minimal overhangs recall the Pajero’s golden era” (Autocar, July 2025).

Platform Uncertainty: Unibody vs. Ladder Frame Debate

Conflicting reports swirl around the Pajero’s underpinnings. Three theories dominate:

1. Triton-Based Ladder Frame
   Australian outlet Drive (July 2025) suggests the model may replace the Pajero Sport, utilizing the next-gen Triton pickup’s chassis. This would enable body-on-frame durability and a 2.4L turbodiesel engine (201 hp) with potential hybrid variants.
2. Outlander’s Unibody Platform
   Spy shots reveal proportions similar to the Outlander, hinting at its CMF-C/D architecture. This could enable a plug-in hybrid powertrain (302 hp) for improved on-road efficiency.
3. Nissan Patrol Chassis
   A less likely scenario involves sharing the Patrol’s platform, though its twin-turbo V6 conflicts with Mitsubishi’s downsize strategy.

Mitsubishi hasn’t clarified, but engineers were observed testing suspension articulation in rocky terrain—hinting at serious off-road capability regardless of architecture.

Strategic Positioning and Market Impact

Industry insiders speculate the new model may drop “Sport” from its name, positioning it as a direct successor to the original Pajero. This aligns with Mitsubishi’s focus on adventure vehicles under its “Beyond Tough” slogan. Key markets will include:

• Asia-Pacific: Where the Pajero name retains cult status
• Australia: A critical region for off-road SUVs
• Middle East: Historic stronghold for desert-running variants

Timing appears strategic—Toyota’s Land Cruiser sales surged 32% YTD (Q2 2025), proving demand for retro-styled, capable SUVs remains strong.

As anticipation builds, the reborn Mitsubishi Pajero could redefine off-road excellence when it debuts later this year. With renderings suggesting a perfect marriage of heritage and innovation, Mitsubishi appears ready to reignite the SUV wars. Watch for official reveals this fall—your next adventure might have a three-diamond badge.

Must Know

Q: When will the new Mitsubishi Pajero launch?
A: Spy shots indicate a near-production design, suggesting a late-2025 debut. Mitsubishi typically unveils global models at Tokyo Motor Show (October) or Dubai International Motor Show (November).

Q: Will it have a ladder frame or unibody?
A: Evidence points toward a Triton-based ladder frame for off-road durability, though Outlander platform sharing remains possible. Official confirmation is pending.

Q: What engines will power the next Pajero?
A: Expect either a 2.4L turbodiesel (201 hp) with mild-hybrid tech or the Outlander PHEV’s 302-hp plug-in system. Gasoline options are unlikely.

Q: Will it rival the Toyota Land Cruiser?
A: Yes. Design and capability cues position it against the Land Cruiser Prado, Ford Everest, and Jeep Wrangler.

Q: Is the “Pajero Sport” name being retired?
A: Reports suggest Mitsubishi will consolidate under the “Pajero” badge globally, aligning with the original model’s legacy.

Q: What markets will get the new Pajero?
A: Asia, Australia, Middle East, and Europe are confirmed. North America remains uncertain due to emissions regulations.