Mitsubishi has unveiled the all-new Montero 2027, reviving its legendary off-road nameplate with a diesel engine, genuine 4x4 capability, and a luxurious seven-seat interior. The model launches first in Thailand, with global rollout planned.
After a five-year break, Mitsubishi is bringing back the Montero—also known as the Pajero—in 2027. The new model isn't a throwback; it's a complete overhaul, aimed squarely at rivals like the Toyota Land Cruiser. This fifth-generation Montero is built to compete with serious off-roaders, not just to trade on nostalgia.
Unlike many SUVs that have shifted toward city driving, the new Montero sticks to its roots. It uses a ladder-frame chassis based on Mitsubishi's pickup platform, a clear sign the company is focused on real 4x4 performance. Under the hood is a 2.4-liter four-cylinder turbo diesel engine with up to 480 Nm of torque. Drivers get selectable four-wheel drive and seven driving modes: Normal, Eco, Gravel, Snow, Mud, Sand, and Rock. This SUV is built for people who actually use their vehicles off-road.
The official world premiere of the new Pajero/Montero is scheduled for September 2, 2026, marking a precise milestone in Mitsubishi's global strategy.
Inside, the Montero 2027 moves away from its utilitarian past. The cabin is finished in leather, and the dashboard features two 14.3-inch screens, along with plenty of physical buttons and switches—a rare choice in an era dominated by touchscreens. Three rows of seats mean it can carry up to seven people, making it practical for families as well as for travel off the beaten path.
Production has already started in Thailand, which will be the first market to get the new Montero. Mitsubishi plans to launch the SUV in over 100 countries, focusing first on Asia, Australia, Latin America, and the Middle East. A European launch may come later. Keisuke Kishiura, Mitsubishi's president and COO, calls the Montero the company's flagship and promises a new level of refinement. Automotive publications report that the phased rollout will begin in Thailand, Japan, and Australia during the 2026 financial year, with a wider release to about 100 markets in 2027.
The Montero 2027 looks different from earlier versions. The exterior uses Mitsubishi's latest design, with large wheel arches and a choice of two grille styles: horizontal bars or a honeycomb mesh. The result is a vehicle that stands out among other off-road SUVs.
The new Montero will initially be available exclusively with a diesel internal combustion engine, as Mitsubishi has not announced hybrid or plug-in hybrid versions for the launch. The company confirms that electrified powertrains will require further development before introduction.
The Montero has a long history. Since 1982, Mitsubishi has sold more than 3.25 million units in 170 countries. The new model aims to build on that record, not just by bringing back a familiar name, but by setting a new standard for modern off-road vehicles. As reported earlier, competition in this segment is heating up, with brands trying to prove their vehicles' real-world abilities, not just their looks.
What makes the Montero 2027 stand out is its focus on substance over trends. While many SUVs are designed for city buyers and feature hybrid systems, Mitsubishi is sticking with diesel power, strong mechanicals, and real off-road gear. The seven-seat layout and upscale interior are central to its global strategy, aiming to appeal to both longtime fans and new buyers who want more than marketing claims.
With production based in Thailand and launches planned for Japan and Australia by March next year, Mitsubishi is betting that there's still strong demand for capable, authentic SUVs. The Montero's return is a direct challenge to its competitors and a statement that Mitsubishi still wants a place among serious off-road vehicles.
