PERTH: The spy shoots of Mitsubishi Montero have been revealed recently at the Chicago Auto Show just last month. The vehicle was hyped as “the return of a legend,” leading many to believe that the eventual production version will end up reviving the Montero name.
What’s evident from the photos is that although the new Pajero will be a much curvier, more progressive design than the chunky model on sale at present, Mitsubishi has toned down the radical lines of the GC-PHEV concept (pictured) that gave us our first preview of the next Pajero back in 2013 at the Tokyo motor show.
As far as the interior treatment goes, Mitsubishi is likely to increase luxury and refinement levels, along with an uptick in technology. That means a range of new adaptive safety tech, from radar cruise control to autonomous emergency brakes (AEB), and possibly a few off-road doodads to highlight its ruggedness.
Tokyo Motor ShowMitsubishi Concept GC-PHEV, 2013 Tokyo Motor ShowMitsubishi quoted combined power output at 335 horsepower, and an electric range of more than 25 miles for the system, although that’s likely on the gentle Japanese test cycle—a U.S. number would likely be 25-30 percent lower.
The original Mitsubishi Montero, sold here through the 2006 model year, attracted a strong cult-like following among off-road enthusiasts and others who appreciated its rugged design. While Mitsubishi’s new full-size SUV looks to be taking a more on-road path, it should still be fully capable off the road. Buyers with larger families are also likely to appreciate the vehicle’s third-row seating.
As mentioned, the new SUV should make its debut next year. While the Montero name is likely for the U.S. market, elsewhere Mitsubishi may go with Pajero. Other new high-riding models coming from the Japanese automaker include an updated Outlander in the mid-size category and an all-new Outlander Sport in the small category.
