Mitsubishi Brings Back an Icon
Can an offroad icon be a halo vehicle? Mitsubishi hopes bringing back the legendary Pajero adds some sparkle to the brand...
While the Montero (the Pajero’s nameplate in North America) never achieved the status of a Wrangler or a Bronco, the picture looked quite different overseas. The original debuted 44 years ago, inspired by the Mitsubishi PX33--Japan’s first 4WD sedan. It spawned midsize, small, and kei-class variants, and exited production five years ago. Mitsubishi has been teasing its return for a while--and now it’s here.
The new model is a true body-on-frame entry, derived from the Triton midsize pickup but with an updated suspension. The only engine at launch is a “clean” 2.4-liter turbodiesel paired with an eight-speed automatic; rumors suggest electrified options are likely forthcoming.
The “Grand Charisma” design draws on the Elevance concept shown last year (and will likely be cascaded across the Mitsubishi portfolio). The C-pillar design is inspired by the original’s roll bar, and the hexagonal motif out back references the (no longer used) external spare tire. Overall, kudos to Mitsubishi for going their own way with Pajero (unlike Hyundai’s Boulder concept, which seemed to have quite a bit of Bronco in its design).
There are plenty of other noteworthy features here, too...
🔹 The more upscale interior, inspired by the Japanese craft of Kimekomi, adds the iconic triple-meter layout to the central touchscreen (which offers 16 background themes that change according to the time of day)
🔹 Acoustic glass is used on the windshield and doors, and there’s extra effort to reduce NVH for a more refined ride
🔹 Super All Wheel Control integrates Active Yaw Control, and the driver can select four different 4WD models and seven drive modes
🔹 Unlike Bronco and Wrangler (but comparable to the Land Cruiser 250), a third row seat is standard (as well as trizone climate control)
🔹 The new Emergency Lane Assist uses camera and radar to recognize lane markings and surrounding vehicles, providing warnings and steering assistance when it detects a risk of lane departure
🔹 MI-PILOT integrates adaptive cruise control and lane-keep assist
Launch begins later this year, initially in Thailand, Japan, and Australia, with 100 markets to follow--but, alas, North America has yet to be confirmed. Overall--aside from the currently limited powertrain selection--Mitsubishi appears have to ticked all the boxes in resurrecting the Pajero. Here’s hoping offroad enthusiasts on this side of the pond get a chance to get their hands on one.
Comments