Even though most never leave the pavement, rugged SUVs are some of the most desirable vehicles on the market today. Mitsubishi knows that, or at least recently remembered it, and may be doing something to jump (back) on the bandwagon. The iconic Montero may be on its way back, as recent spy shots captured a new off-road SUV that looks an awful lot like the beloved model.
Mitsubishi announced plans for several new vehicles in the next few years and filed a trademark for the Montero name last year, but that’s about as much confirmation as we have. The Montero, known as the Pajero in other markets, was a successful off-roader in the 1980s and 1990s, but Mitsubishi’s lineup has dwindled to a few humdrum SUVs in the U.S. in recent years.
The spy photos show a boxy SUV with an upright shape and vertical LED headlights. It features a large grille and tall side windows. Keen-eyed observers also spotted a solid rear axle in the shots, which could mean a rugged body-on-frame configuration. We’ll also likely see hybrid power of some sort, especially if the SUV goes on sale in Europe.
While nothing is confirmed, we could see a new Montero as soon as next year, given Mitsubishi’s commitment to release a new model every year starting in 2026. It would be nice to see a new sports car from the brand, but the return of the Montero would be an exciting development for Mitsubishi.
[Images: fireflite59 via Shutterstock.com, Dmitry Dven via Shutterstock.com]
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