While Mitsubishi has reintroduced its rugged, truck-based Outlander (sharing a platform with the Triton) in select Asian and Australian markets, complete with seven seats and diesel power, the company remains tight-lipped about a potential return of the legendary Montero to North America. This leaves a void for enthusiasts seeking the brand’s off-road heritage. Speculation suggests a new mid-size pickup truck, possibly named Raider, might be on its way to the US around 2028, potentially sharing underpinnings with the next Nissan Frontier, though it won’t be directly linked to the Pajero lineage.

However, the digital realm is buzzing with what could be next for Mitsubishi’s more mainstream offerings. A popular automotive content creator, working under the “AutoYa” banner and its “AutoYa Interior” CGI hub, has envisioned a significant mid-cycle refresh for the best-selling Outlander compact crossover SUV, potentially for the 2028 model year. This hypothetical update would represent the second such facelift for the current, fourth-generation Outlander, which debuted in 2021 and has seen only minor revisions since.

The imagined 2028 Outlander, particularly the PHEV variant, is depicted with a larger battery pack, signaling a commitment to electrified powertrains. The artist’s rendering showcases substantial design tweaks both inside and out. Externally, the updated Outlander features a striking full-width LED light bar positioned above a redesigned grille, complemented by vertical LED headlights. The front bumper is also reimagined, incorporating repositioned LED fog lights within its protective element. New alloy wheel designs are also part of the visual overhaul. At the rear, the vehicle sports boomerang-shaped LED taillights and a revised bumper.

The interior enhancements in the CGI concept are equally noteworthy. A new three-spoke steering wheel and a redesigned gear knob contribute to a more modern cabin feel. The dashboard itself has been reworked to accommodate a larger digital instrument cluster and a more expansive central infotainment screen, suggesting an increased focus on technology and driver-centric information. These virtual updates paint a compelling picture of how Mitsubishi’s popular family crossover could evolve, offering a glimpse into potential future design directions for the brand.