After months of anticipation, Mitsubishi has officially unveiled its all-new Pajero, a rugged off-road SUV that marks the brand’s serious return to the adventure vehicle segment. The fifth-generation model represents a departure from the brand’s recent focus on crossovers and sedans, delivering a purpose-built alternative to established players in the premium off-road market. However, there is a significant catch for American consumers: this new Pajero will not reach US showrooms anytime soon, leaving off-road enthusiasts facing a lengthy wait.

The new Pajero is targeting markets in Southeast Asia, Latin America, and the Middle East with an impressive set of capabilities. Under the hood sits a 2.4-liter turbocharged diesel engine mated to an 8-speed automatic transmission, providing the torque needed for serious off-road work. The vehicle rides on a rigid ladder frame that Mitsubishi claims offers improved rigidity over previous generations, paired with a solid rear axle for traditional off-road capability. What sets it apart from competitors like the Toyota Land Cruiser is the retention of double wishbone independent front suspension, a choice that balances on-road comfort with terrain-crossing prowess.

The feature set that will appeal most to off-road buyers includes Super Select 4WD-II technology, which Mitsubishi engineered to combine serious four-wheel-drive capability with everyday drivability. The SUV also offers seven selectable drive modes and over 9 inches of ground clearance, positioning it squarely in the capable adventure segment. The boxy exterior design is not merely aesthetic; it provides a commanding presence and optimizes interior space, allowing the Pajero to comfortably seat seven passengers across three rows. The second row features a sliding mechanism that moves approximately six inches to ease third-row access.

Inside, the new Pajero represents a significant step up in refinement compared to older Mitsubishi models. Tan-colored upholstery, modern trim pieces, and a dual-screen dashboard with dual 14.3-inch displays create an upscale atmosphere. One interesting feature is a digital interpretation of vintage Pajero gauges on the center screen, displaying pitch, roll, and altitude data. Practical amenities include heated second-row seats and a 12-speaker audio system, making longer journeys more enjoyable. Budget off-road tires are increasingly challenging premium-priced options, so shoppers will appreciate having quality audio while exploring remote areas.

The US Market Reality: A Long Wait Ahead

The critical disappointment for American buyers is the timeline. Mitsubishi has not confirmed plans to bring this Thailand-built Pajero to North America, and the consensus suggests that a US-spec version, potentially branded as the Montero, will not arrive before 2030. The reason for the delay likely boils down to a competitive dynamic involving Nissan and their upcoming Xterra launch.

Nissan is expected to debut the new Xterra around 2028 or as a 2029 model year vehicle. Given that Nissan and Mitsubishi share certain platform and powertrain relationships, the two companies appear to have staggered their releases to avoid direct competition in the US market. This means Nissan will likely launch first, capturing market share and consumer attention before Mitsubishi introduces its North American version several years later. The Toyota RAV4 Hybrid received off-road drive modes for 2027, demonstrating how quickly the segment is evolving.

For consumers who have been waiting for a genuine body-on-frame Mitsubishi off-roader since the last-generation Montero disappeared from US dealerships in 2006, this extended timeline is frustrating. The off-road SUV segment is experiencing unprecedented demand, and Mitsubishi’s delay means missed sales opportunities and prolonged customer wait times. The Range Rover Electric proved that off-road capability is no longer the exclusive domain of traditional powertrains, showing the market is expanding rapidly.

What This Means for Shoppers Today

modern vehicle interior dashboard
Photo by Maxim

If you are in the market for a true off-road SUV right now, you will need to look elsewhere. The Toyota Land Cruiser, Jeep Wrangler, and the forthcoming Nissan Xterra remain your best domestic options. The new Mitsubishi Pajero’s eventual arrival in North America could shake up the landscape, particularly if it arrives with competitive pricing and proven reliability. However, that scenario remains years away.

Prospective buyers should monitor Mitsubishi’s official announcements for any updates on a North American launch timeline. The longer the wait stretches, the more the automotive landscape will shift, with new competitors emerging and technology advancing. By the time the Montero arrives in the US market, it will need to offer something truly compelling to justify the extended absence from American consumers who have long called for its return.