New Mitsubishi Pajero Official Images Released, Is It Still a Hit for Off-Road Enthusiasts?

More Stylish Exterior, More Tech Interior: New Mitsubishi Pajero Official Images Released, Is It Still a Hit for Off-Road Enthusiasts?

Whether in China or abroad, anyone in the "off-road circle" naturally knows the nickname "Mountain Cat". Even though Mitsubishi has exited the Chinese market and the model has been discontinued for 5 years, it is still often compared when discussing off-road vehicles. Just a few days ago, Mitsubishi officially released the official images of the new Pajero model. As its fifth-generation vehicle, the new car will be manufactured in Thailand and will gradually roll out to over 100 countries in regions like ASEAN and the Middle East next year.

Design-wise, there is basically no major connection with the "Mountain Cat" Pajero we knew before, although the new car continues the family's signature rugged style. At the front, the new car adopts a split headlight design with vertically oriented daytime running lights on either side of the bumper and a horizontal light bar matrix layout inside. A through-type LED light strip connects the headlight groups, giving the overall look a more fashionable feel, leaning towards new energy vehicles. The large central grille features a blackened honeycomb layout for a sportier appearance, while the dual raised contours on the hood add a muscular look.

The body design also changes the impression of the Pajero among Chinese consumers. The overall lines are richer and more youthful. The segmented body creases are agile yet powerful. The body trim, wheel arches, and mirror housings all use black finishes, and the A, B, C, and D pillars along with the roof are painted black. The contrasting body color is more fashionable, and the silver trim on the C-pillar adds depth to the new car.

The rear also features a new through-type light group design, with taillight shapes echoing the headlights. The new car cancels the external spare tire design common in previous fourth-generation models. Combined with the octagonal tailgate, complex lines, and spoiler design at the bumper, it lacks the wildness and steadiness of the old models, instead interpreting sportiness, fashion, and technology.

After seeing the exterior, let's look at the interior. Like the exterior, the new car's interior design has no connection with previous models. The dual-screen combination of a floating LCD instrument cluster and a large infotainment screen brings plenty of technology and intelligence to the cabin. Below the large screen are air conditioning buttons, while the central instrument panel features a physical gear selector and 4WD knob. According to official images, the interior uses extensive leather material wrapping, and the overall premium feel is significantly better than the old models.

In terms of dimensions, the new car measures 4920/1925/1910mm in length, width, and height, with a wheelbase of 2870mm. Compared to the old model's 4900/1875/1900mm dimensions and 2780mm wheelbase, the new car sees improvements across the board. More importantly, the new car does not adopt the external spare tire design, meaning the actual length increase is greater than the specs suggest. Inside, it uses a three-row seven-seat layout, although the third-row seats are more suitable for occasional emergency use based on the parameters.

Regarding power, the new car will be equipped with a 2.4T diesel engine, generating a maximum of 204 horsepower, mated to an 8AT transmission.

Final Thoughts:

Combining current information, the new car's profile is clear, and its product positioning and trends are aimed at accommodating both "off-roading and family" needs. The new design is more fashionable and tech-focused, but it lacks the steadiness of before. It remains to be seen if everyone will still accept it.