Mitsubishi Pajero returns with body-on-frame design

Mitsubishi is preparing to bring back its legendary Pajero. This time, the Japanese automaker isn’t skimping on the off-road capabilities the SUV is widely known for. The new vehicle will feature a body-on-frame design and Super All-Wheel Control (S-AWC) technology, while its global premiere is scheduled for Sept. 2, Autoblog reported.

Pajero returns to body-on-frame construction

The biggest news from the latest teaser is that the Pajero will be built on a body-on-frame platform. The last two generations of the model used monocoque construction, but Mitsubishi is now returning to a design intended for serious off-road use. Furthermore, the new SUV will feature a solid rear axle — a setup better suited to challenging terrain than the independent rear suspension of the previous Pajero.

However, Mitsubishi isn’t simply bringing back the old design. The new Pajero will feature S-AWC, which first appeared on the Lancer Evolution X. The technology should help the large SUV combine off-road capability with a more confident driving experience on paved roads.

Familiar instruments will return

Another familiar feature for fans of the old Pajero is the signature Triple Multi Meter. In the new generation, it will once again display information related to off-road driving, including vehicle height, roll and pitch.

In other words, Mitsubishi is tapping into nostalgia, but from a technical standpoint, the vehicle will be thoroughly modern. The new Pajero will likely be built on a body-on-frame platform similar to that of the Triton pickup, with production moving to Thailand. However, it remains unclear which type of powertrain will be used.

Neck and neck with the Land Cruiser again

The Pajero’s return is particularly interesting for Kazakhstan, where the model is well known and respected. Moreover, the new SUV is arriving at a time when the Toyota Land Cruiser has established a particularly strong position in the large body-on-frame SUV segment.

Given that the Pajero has historically competed with the Land Cruiser Prado, a new chapter in their rivalry may be just around the corner. However, it’s too early to draw conclusions, as Mitsubishi has yet to reveal the key specifications of the new model.

Premiere set for early September

The world premiere of the new Pajero is scheduled for Sept. 2, when Mitsubishi is expected to reveal the remaining technical specifications, including the vehicle’s powertrain options and trim levels.

For Mitsubishi, this will be one of its most important premieres in recent years. The Pajero’s return is also significant for Kazakhstan, where the SUV remains popular among outdoor enthusiasts.