Mitsubishi's Boxy New SUV Could Be More Than Just a Pajero Revival | Carscoops

      The enigmatic Mitsubishi SUV appears rugged and boxy, yet its foundational details are still undisclosed.

      A camouflaged Mitsubishi SUV prototype has been observed during testing in Southern Europe, reigniting enthusiasm for the brand's tough SUV range and raising speculation about the return of the anticipated Pajero model. There have been various reports, some indicating that the new SUV may utilize the Outlander’s unibody platform, while others suggest a conventional ladder-frame configuration similar to that of the Nissan Patrol.

      Additionally, there's a new theory proposing that the upcoming Pajero could be based on the Triton pickup's chassis, potentially replacing the aging Pajero Sport. There's also the possibility that the prototype represents the production version of the Mitsubishi DST concept, a seven-seat unibody SUV primarily designed for Asian markets.

      **Boxy Shape, Recognizable Features**

      Our sources observed the prototype undergoing testing in hot conditions, showcasing what seems to be near-production bodywork and lighting arrangements. It has moved away from earlier disguises to display more polished, cohesive aesthetics. The vehicle boasts a tall, square silhouette, a straight nose, and proportions reminiscent of classic off-road vehicles.

      The front end includes vertically-stacked LED daytime running lights flanking a broad grille and a prominent skid plate. The sides share design cues with the DST concept, while the rear resembles the latest Nissan Patrol, featuring a vertical window, linked LED taillights, and a large skid plate that doubles as a diffuser.

      One prevailing theory from the Australian publication Drive proposes that this prototype may take the place of the Pajero Sport, with Mitsubishi potentially eliminating the “Sport” designation altogether. Earlier insights suggested that the next iteration of this ladder-frame SUV would diverge further from the closely-related Triton pickup in exterior design.

      However, the latest spy photographs indicate that the SUV displays slightly altered proportions compared to earlier Pajero Sport prototypes. Upon closer evaluation, it may have more in common with the unibody Outlander, albeit with a notably shorter front overhang and a more vertical windshield.

      **What’s Hiding Underneath**

      The choice of platform will ultimately influence the Pajero’s powertrain options. A variant based on the Outlander’s CMF-C/D architecture could likely incorporate the plug-in hybrid system that generates 302 hp (225 kW / 306 PS). In contrast, a ladder-frame chassis shared with the Triton would likely support the 2.4-liter turbodiesel engine with a maximum output of 201 hp (150 kW / 204 PS), with electric power expected to be integrated later.

      A model based on the Patrol appears less plausible due to its 316 hp (235 kW / 320 PS) twin-turbo V6 and its more robust intentions. There’s also a more economical possibility: a production variant of the DST concept that shares its front-wheel-drive configuration and 1.5-liter gasoline engine producing 103 hp (77 kW / 105 PS) with the Mitsubishi xForce. However, such a setup would likely be incongruous with the Pajero name, which Mitsubishi is unlikely to apply to a base-level SUV.

      With the current stage of development evident in the most recent spy images, the final model may make its debut by late 2025, delivering some long-awaited clarity.