Mitsubishi Montero Returning as a True Off-Road SUV.

The classic Mitsubishi Montero SUV is rumored to make a comeback very soon, and I think it’s a great idea. I mean really, this is a no-brainer for Mitsubishi. The illustration above shows what the next generation could look like. And from what we’ve seen so far in spy shots, it’s probably pretty close to the real thing.

The original Pajero debuted in 1981, with four generations produced until 2021. During its long career, it earned a reputation as one of the world’s most capable off-road SUVs. It also became a motorsport legend thanks to its remarkable success in the Dakar Rally. In the United States, the vehicle was sold as the Mitsubishi Montero, although the final generation was never offered here.

With the continued popularity of vehicles like the Jeep Wrangler and Ford Bronco, bringing back the Montero to North America seems like a logical move. The market for rugged SUVs is stronger than ever, and Mitsubishi currently has nothing that directly competes in that segment.

Some reports claim the next Pajero could share its architecture with the Nissan Patrol, creating a large, body-on-frame SUV with serious off-road credentials. That would certainly satisfy enthusiasts looking for a genuine successor to the original model. After driving the patrol for a week, I think this would be dbe a mistake. As the patrol is just a huge, clumbsy and thirsty beast. Something most people don;’t actually want.

However, earlier rumors suggest Mitsubishi could take a different path by basing the new Pajero on the current Outlander. In that scenario, it would become a more rugged-looking, adventure-focused version of the popular crossover. Such a vehicle would likely be less expensive to build and could easily offer hybrid and plug-in hybrid powertrains.

The problem is that a unibody-based SUV might not be taken seriously by traditional off-road enthusiasts. What Mitsubishi may really need is the real thing. The company already sells the Triton pickup truck in several global markets, and its body-on-frame platform could provide the ideal foundation for a new off-road SUV.

A Triton-based Pajero would likely be more affordable than a Patrol-based model while still delivering the toughness and total lack of comfort truck buyers expect.

Whatever direction Mitsubishi chooses, reviving the Montero/Pajero could be exactly what the brand needs. The company has a rich off-road heritage, and a new Montero could help reconnect with buyers looking for something tougher and more adventurous than the average crossover.

Something tough for the rough boys and girls of the world.