A boxy, rugged-looking Mitsubishi SUV has been caught testing in Southern Europe, sparking rumours that the iconic Pajero name could soon make a comeback. 

Mitsubishi has yet to confirm details, but the heavily camouflaged prototype hints at a serious off-road contender aimed at rivals like the Toyota Prado and Ford Everest.

3

The vehicle’s squared wheel arches, upright stance and six-lug wheels suggest it may be built on a traditional body-on-frame chassis – possibly sharing underpinnings with the latest Triton ute. This would mark a shift back toward classic 4WD architecture, setting it apart from Mitsubishi’s crossover-style models.

Visually, the SUV sports a tall grille with stacked LED headlights, a clamshell bonnet, and a blocky overall shape that hints at capability. At the rear, it moves away from the distinctive tail-light design of the Pajero Sport, opting instead for a more conventional look, which could indicate a fresh design direction.

While the exact powertrain line-up remains unconfirmed, the new SUV is expected to use the Triton’s 2.4-litre twin-turbo diesel engine, delivering solid torque for towing and off-road use. A plug-in hybrid variant may also be in development.

1

The launch could come at a pivotal time for Mitsubishi. With the Pajero Sport recently withdrawn from Australia due to new safety regulations, the brand is currently missing a key player in the large SUV segment. Industry insiders suggest this new model will serve as a flagship 4WD and could arrive locally by 2027 following a global debut in late 2026.

Whether it carries the Pajero badge again or adopts a new name remains uncertain. However, the signs point to Mitsubishi preparing a capable and robust 4WD that could re-establish the brand’s presence in the tough off-road market and go head-to-head with established competitors.

MORE Pajero Sport news and reviews!