The success of Outlander crossover and its PHEV version could lead to the expansion of the Mitsubishi SUV lineup in the US. However, its flagship model had a rough time recently. Some rumors even mentioned the discontinuation. Instead, the company is going to revisit the 2021 Mitsubishi Pajero and bring it as the all-new SUV. You can also find this vehicle in other markets appearing as Montero. This nameplate was used for North America as well. So, the question is if the SUV is coming as Pajero or Montero.
Either way, we doubt the Japanese company is going to discontinue the legendary 4×4 model after a couple of bad seasons. It is still capable of competing with other off-road SUVs in Asia and Europe, such as Toyota Fortuner or Ford Everest. Mitsubishi can respond to the needs of buyers and experts.
The new look and cleaner engines are a good start for the 2021 Mitsubishi Pajero. On the other hand, COVID-19 pandemic slowed things down, including sales, production, and the development of upcoming vehicles. But, the Japanese SUV needs a shocking therapy and it has to be ready when the market recovers and gets back on the track.
2021 Mitsubishi Pajero Redesign
It is not a surprise why the Pajero sells slowly. The SUV is more than 10 years ago and it desperately needs an update. New look, interior, drivetrains… everything will be revisited and renewed. Still, this is a huge investment for the model that wasn’t profitable recently. However, Pajero is in production for nearly 40 years, and it would be a shame to discontinue it without reviving.
The new look is the first goal. The 2021 Mitsubishi Pajero will keep a rugged and boxy appearance. Nevertheless, modernization should make the SUV more aesthetic. We still don’t have details about the redesign and the new look since the situation in the market is not promising and the new Pajero/Montero could appear as the 2022 YM. Still, we can look at the latest design solutions for other Mitsubishi vehicles and get some clues that can be used for the large SUV.
Interior
Not only outside, but the 2021 Mitsubishi Pajero interior needs a total overhaul. The SUV is going to remain a seven-seater. The company must revisit the entire cabin if it wants to be competitive in the US market. Also, more upscale materials and advanced features are required. Outlander keeps up with its rivals. On the other hand, Montero or Pajero will face a totally different market. Plus, the happenings in the big rig segment are drawing a lot of attention because of debuts we can see in the next 12 months. That would make the situation for the 2021 Pajero even tougher and its appearance questionable.
Still, upper trim levels should lure buyers. Premium models will offer a six-seat layout with captain’s chairs. Off-road packages are going to improve the ride in tough terrains. But, the comfort, convenience, and safety are important as well if 2021 Montero is going to position well in the US market.
Pajero or Montero
Outside the US the vehicle is mostly available as Pajero and Montero. Very few markets are offering this SUV as Shogun. Mitsubishi is known for such tricks. All the buyers in North America remember the vehicle coming out as Montero. So, there is an option to bring back an old nameplate, which seems to be quite popular nowadays (comebacks of Honda Passport, Ford Bronco, Chevy Blazer). On the other hand, the refreshment will be complete with a new nameplate.
2021 Mitsubishi Pajero Specs
Another condition for the appearance in the biggest stage for the 2021 Montero or Pajero is a cleaner drivetrain. This is where experts are the most confident speaking of this model. Outlander made some space for new arrivals with the plug-in hybrid system. Well, it wasn’t too spectacular, but Mitsubishi showed it can compete with likes of Nissan, Ford, Honda, and its partners, Toyota.
So, the cooperation with one of the leaders in this segment will be another reason why we can expect the Pajero to meet all the emission requirements pretty easily. Toyota purchased Mitsubishi shares, and in the future, we will see cleaner engines. One of the first vehicles that will introduce the results of the partnership is 2021 Mitsubishi Pajero, a model for the US market. A large V6 is the priority, but the SUV can also take some powerful turbo-four configuration for a starter.
2021 Mitsubishi Pajero Release Date
As said, the coronavirus caused many delays already, so it is questionable if the all-new 2021 Mitsubishi Pajero will come out next season. Still, all the changes won’t wait for too long and the all-new SUV will come as 2022 YM in the worst scenario. The price in the US market will depend on the size and engines it uses. According to rumors, it could start around $35,000.
