Mitsubishi is expanding its SUV strategy with several new models aimed at key segments, including a compact crossover expected to compete with the Toyota RAV4 and Mazda CX-5 in 2028 or 2029. According to Nikkei Asia, the automaker is also preparing a midsize SUV and a kei-class variant while continuing to reveal details about its upcoming Pajero/Montero full-size body-on-frame SUV.
Mitsubishi Plans Broader SUV Expansion
Mitsubishi has gradually shared more information about its upcoming Pajero/Montero full-size SUV, which is expected to offer rugged capability comparable to the Toyota Land Cruiser.
According to Nikkei Asia, the company’s plans extend beyond that model. A new compact unibody crossover is reportedly scheduled to arrive in 2028 or 2029 to compete with the Toyota RAV4 and Mazda CX-5.
The report also says Mitsubishi is planning a midsize SUV positioned against models such as the Hyundai Santa Fe and the Toyota Crown Signia. In addition, a kei-class SUV is reportedly expected around 2030, although that vehicle is considered too small for the U.S. market.
Aiming for More Mainstream Appeal
Mitsubishi has become a relatively niche brand after not offering products in some of America’s most popular vehicle segments. The company is now looking to broaden its lineup, with the Pajero name expected to serve as the foundation for a family of off-road-focused SUVs.
Rather than relying on platforms from Nissan or Renault, Nikkei Asia reports that Mitsubishi is developing a dedicated platform for its upcoming RAV4 competitor. The move is intended to strengthen the Mitsubishi brand while allowing the company to manage development costs and maintain an attractive MSRP.
A hybrid version is also viewed as a natural fit for the compact crossover, similar to expectations surrounding the full-size Montero.
Off-Road Capability as a Key Selling Point
According to Nikkei Asia, Mitsubishi plans to distinguish its future compact crossover by placing greater emphasis on rugged four-wheel-drive technology. The company aims to highlight that buyers are getting a vehicle with greater off-road capability than a typical crossover.
While that positioning could place the vehicle at the higher end of its segment, developing an entire family of off-road-oriented SUVs could also help spread those technologies across multiple models.
More details are expected after Mitsubishi officially unveils the first member of the lineup, the Montero/Pajero, in early September.
Conclusion
Mitsubishi’s reported SUV roadmap includes a new compact crossover, a midsize SUV, and a kei-class model alongside the upcoming Pajero/Montero. With dedicated development and an emphasis on four-wheel-drive capability, the company is targeting some of the industry’s most competitive SUV segments over the coming years.
