The Mitsubishi Montero Might Be Coming Back

It’s been nearly two decades, but the wait could soon be over. The Mitsubishi Montero, a name that once stood tall in the world of rugged, off-road-ready SUVs may be making its long-awaited return to the U.S. market. And if recent spy photos are any indication, this reborn Montero could be just what Mitsubishi fans (and adventure seekers) have been waiting for.

A Montero Comeback? Here's What We Know

Last sold in the U.S. in 2006, the Mitsubishi Montero was a body-on-frame SUV built to compete with icons like the Toyota 4Runner and Nissan Xterra. While the Montero name lived on as the Pajero in international markets until 2021, U.S. customers haven’t seen this rugged SUV on showroom floors in almost 20 years.

That may soon change. In early 2024, Mitsubishi filed a U.S. trademark for the name “Montero,” signaling serious interest in bringing the nameplate back. Combine that with recently captured spy shots of a heavily camouflaged, boxy SUV testing in southern Europe, and the evidence is mounting that the Montero is getting ready for a comeback, possibly as early as 2028.

What the Spy Photos Reveal

The spy images show a chunky, upright SUV with clear body-on-frame proportions and a solid rear axle, a major clue that this isn’t just another crossover. Despite the heavy camouflage, we can still spot:

• Squinty front lighting similar to the Mitsubishi Outlander
• Boxy fenders and bulky roof pillars that scream Montero heritage
• Mud flaps hinting at off-road capability
• An internal-combustion exhaust pipe, suggesting a gas-powered engine, at least for now

One thing notably missing? The rear-mounted spare tire, a classic Montero feature. That said, this could just be a design omission on the test mule or a shift toward modern design standards.

Mitsubishi + Nissan: A Strategic Collaboration

This rumored Montero revival may not be happening in isolation. Industry insiders believe Nissan and Mitsubishi are teaming up to co-develop body-on-frame SUVs, and potentially even mid-size pickup trucks for the North American market. A new Nissan Xterra is also rumored to be in the works, and the two could share a common platform.

According to Automotive News, Nissan is considering moving production of its Japanese-built Armada and Infiniti QX80 to its Canton, Mississippi plant. The same report suggests the factory could also build two new Frontier-sized SUVs, which could very well be the next-gen Xterra and Montero.

That means not only could we see the Montero return, but it might even be built right here in the U.S., a big win for fans and the domestic economy alike.

Why the Montero's Return Matters

For years, Mitsubishi has leaned heavily into crossovers and plug-in hybrids, but enthusiasts have long missed a tough, go-anywhere SUV in the lineup. If the Montero returns with serious off-road credentials and modern tech, while keeping its reputation for durability, it could shake up the midsize SUV segment once again.

Imagine a true 4Runner or Bronco competitor with Mitsubishi’s global off-road experience, Nissan’s manufacturing support, and pricing that undercuts the competition. That’s a recipe worth watching.

Final Thoughts: Stay Tuned, Adventure Fans

While Mitsubishi hasn’t officially confirmed the new Montero, spy photos, trademarks, and production rumors suggest something big is on the horizon. And if you're a fan of capable, body-on-frame SUVs built to take you off the beaten path, the Montero’s potential comeback should be on your radar.

Whether it debuts in 2028 or earlier, we’ll be keeping a close eye on developments, and so should you.