Electric Cars

Mitsubishi is orchestrating the revival of its renowned Pajero SUV, with an official global launch slated for September 2, 2026. This eagerly awaited fifth-generation model will proudly re-embrace a rugged body-on-frame construction, departing from its predecessor's unibody design. The vehicle is also confirmed to integrate Mitsubishi's sophisticated Super All-Wheel Control (S-AWC) system, promising enhanced off-road prowess and dynamic handling. Industry observers anticipate the introduction of hybrid powertrains, likely utilizing diesel technology, alongside speculation of a potential rebranding to Montero for the North American market. These strategic moves signal Mitsubishi's commitment to recapturing the essence of serious off-roading for enthusiasts worldwide.

Mitsubishi Pajero: A Glimpse into the Future of Off-Roading

On September 2, 2026, Mitsubishi will formally introduce the next-generation Pajero. This pivotal moment marks the return of a legendary nameplate, reimagined with a robust ladder-frame chassis. This engineering choice is a clear declaration of Mitsubishi's intent to position the Pajero as a formidable contender in the competitive off-road segment. The integration of the Super All-Wheel Control (S-AWC) system, a technology refined in the Lancer Evolution X and currently employed in the Triton pickup, underscores the vehicle's commitment to superior traction and stability across diverse landscapes. While specific dimensions and interior features remain under wraps, design previews suggest regional variations in front-end aesthetics.

Further enhancing its off-road credentials, reports indicate the S-AWC system will likely be paired with Mitsubishi's Super Select 4WD-II transfer case. This configuration would enable drivers to seamlessly switch between two-wheel drive, full-time all-wheel drive, and low-range modes, a setup favored for demanding off-pavement excursions. Rumors also circulate about a high-performance Ralliart off-road variant, which could intensify the rivalry with models like the Toyota Land Cruiser Prado. The powertrain details, particularly regarding the anticipated hybrid options, are a focal point of discussion. Given its shared platform with the Triton, a diesel-based hybrid system is widely expected, catering to both efficiency and rugged performance, rather than a plug-in hybrid designed primarily for urban environments.

Looking ahead, Mitsubishi's strategic vision for the Pajero extends beyond a single model. The brand's 2030 U.S. roadmap hints at the return of a body-on-frame SUV, potentially under the Montero badge, a name with established recognition among American consumers. Additionally, plans for smaller, kei-class Pajero variants with hybrid technology are reportedly in motion for the 2028-2030 timeframe, aiming to transform Pajero into a comprehensive family of SUVs. This approach mirrors industry trends of diversifying a popular nameplate across multiple sizes to broaden market appeal. The success of these ambitious plans hinges significantly on the reception of the global reveal, particularly in key markets, as Mitsubishi endeavors to reassert its presence in the robust SUV arena.

The reintroduction of the Mitsubishi Pajero with its foundational ladder-frame and advanced S-AWC system represents a deliberate move to cater to core off-road enthusiasts. This strategy signals a departure from the "soft-road" SUV trend, aiming to rebuild credibility and challenge established rivals. If the engineering and performance live up to the promise, Mitsubishi stands to regain significant market standing and capture the attention of a dedicated enthusiast community.

Ford's strategic alliance with Geely is poised to redefine its European SUV offerings, with a new compact model slated for production at the iconic Valencia plant. This collaboration, formalised through a joint venture in July 2026, aims to leverage Geely's advanced Global Intelligent New Energy Architecture (GEA) platform. The GEA platform is renowned for its versatility, accommodating various electrified powertrains including battery-electric, plug-in hybrid, and range-extended options. This move underscores Ford's commitment to low-emission vehicles and its agile adaptation to the evolving automotive landscape in Europe. By integrating Geely's technical prowess with its established manufacturing capabilities, Ford seeks to streamline development processes, optimize production costs, and accelerate the introduction of a new generation of electrified SUVs to the European market, challenging traditional in-house engineering paradigms.

Ford and Geely Forge a New Path in European SUV Manufacturing

In a groundbreaking industrial collaboration, Ford and Geely officially sealed their joint venture on July 23, 2026. This partnership designates Ford's long-standing Valencia manufacturing facility in Spain as the production hub for an innovative line of low- and zero-emission vehicles tailored for European consumers. The venture, majority-owned by Ford with a 66% stake, is set to commence production in 2028. This ambitious timeline necessitates rapid preparation of Ford's extensive dealer network and customer base for a key model built on a partner's architecture, a novel approach for the American automotive giant in Europe.

The Valencia plant, steeped in Ford's rich history, is currently responsible for producing the successor to the Ford Focus, reimagined as a crossover. With the advent of this new joint venture, the facility will expand its output to include a compact SUV under the esteemed Bronco lineage, alongside two distinct Geely Auto models. This strategic integration is underpinned by Geely's Global Intelligent New Energy Architecture (GEA), a flexible modular platform already utilized in Geely's cutting-edge Galaxy and EX5 models. The GEA platform’s ability to support diverse powertrain configurations—from battery-electric to plug-in hybrid and range-extended systems—offers Ford a significant advantage. This enables the rapid development of new models while distributing the substantial costs associated with tooling and production across a broader manufacturing scale. While Ford has yet to explicitly name the specific platform for the compact Bronco, the strategic reliance on Geely's engineering expertise is evident, promising a future fleet of electrified vehicles that combine American design ethos with Chinese technological innovation.

This pioneering collaboration signals a notable evolution in Ford’s global strategy, prioritizing efficiency and market responsiveness through strategic partnerships. The forthcoming compact SUV from Valencia will undoubtedly be a crucial test case, demonstrating how a Geely-engineered foundation can be harmoniously integrated with Ford’s signature styling, performance tuning, and software. The reception of this vehicle by European drivers will offer vital insights into the potential reshaping of Ford's entire European product portfolio, especially concerning the long-term positioning of established models like the Kuga. It highlights a pragmatic embrace of external expertise to navigate the complexities and accelerate the transition towards an electrified automotive future.