Story and photos by Andreas Conradt, Automedia

Mitsubishi Reviving the Montero Nameplate

The Montero (Pajero or Shogun in some markets) was one of the most iconic high-riders in Mitsubishi's lineup, and it appears the nameplate is making a comeback. A mysterious prototype was spotted undergoing testing in Germany, and it is believed to revive the moniker, albeit with a twist.

Around four years ago, Mitsubishi decided to retire the Montero. The fourth generation remained in production from 2006 to 2021, which is a long time for a vehicle in today's market. However, it appears the new model could actually be the successor to the Montero Sport, at least according to some reports.

Fret not, fellow high-riding enthusiasts, as the Japanese automaker could go the extra mile and base it on a ladder-frame chassis. That is one hypothesis and if it proves correct, the SUV could share its underpinnings with the Triton/L200. The pickup truck is currently in its sixth generation and has been in production since 2023, when manufacturing began in Thailand at the Laem Chabang facility.

The current Triton/L200 is offered with diesel and gasoline power, depending on the market, which is likely what will be found under the hood of the all-new Montero if it is derived from the workhorse. Electrification is also said to be in the works for the new SUV, meaning the pickup could benefit from it in the coming years as well.

Other rumors suggest the all-new Mitsubishi Pajero (name unconfirmed) could instead be a monocoque crossover, potentially utilizing the same platform as the Outlander. The latter is based on Renault-Nissan's CMF-C/D architecture, which also underpins the Kadjar, Scenic, Austral, Rafale, Qashqai and X-Trail among many others.

As you can see, little is known about this high-rider, though its rear-end design appears somewhat similar to the Nissan Patrol. It features an upright nose, a large grille, slim LED headlights and a boxy overall design that is well suited to off-road duty.

Rumors suggest the new Mitsubishi Montero could be revealed in the coming months, potentially launching in Australia.

Another SUV-Coupe: Fiat Panda Fastback

The Stellantis-controlled Fiat brand will debut a fastback-style compact model later this year. A global effort set to succeed the MLA-based Fastback for South America and the Tipo for Europe, the Middle East and Africa, the Grande Panda-derived Fastback was previewed by a namesake concept in February 2024.

Believed to be called the Panda Fastback in series-production form, the model has been spied near the Arctic Circle. The test vehicle sheds the excessive rear camouflage seen on earlier prototypes, making it clear the Italian automaker opted for a five-door SUV coupe design.

Confirmed to ride on the Stellantis Smart Car Platform used by the Grande Panda subcompact hatchback, the Panda Fastback features taillights heavily inspired by the concept. The rear bumper and liftgate, however, have been toned down.

Fiat has also softened the A-pillar angle, specifically how the front pillars transition into the roof. Pictured wearing steel wheels with a four-lug pattern, the Panda Fastback also hides a dirty secret beneath the cargo area. That secret is torsion-beam rear suspension, a cost-effective solution commonly used in this segment by European automakers.

The door handles and side mirrors appear to be borrowed from the Grande Panda, while the wheel arches suggest light cladding for added visual flair. Fiat adopted a different pattern for the front bumper's lower grille, though the upper section of the bumper and the headlights are reminiscent of the Grande Panda.

Through the lower grille, the air conditioning condenser and the internal combustion engine's radiator are visible. Exhaust gases exit through a single outlet at the rear, neatly concealed by the bumper's valance panel.

As a result, the Panda Fastback will be offered with the Grande Panda's 1.2L turbocharged inline-three engine. This powerplant is available on its own or with mild-hybrid assistance, resulting in transmission choices ranging from a six-speed manual to a six-speed dual-clutch automatic.

The Groupe PSA-developed engine produces between 101 and 110 metric hp, with peak torque arriving at 1,750 rpm at 205 Newton-meters. In 48-volt form, the system's electric motor is rated at 29 metric hp and 55 Newton-meters.

Like the Grande Panda, the Panda Fastback should also be offered with a fully electric option. For now, the zero-emissions variant delivers 111 hp and 125 Nm from a front-mounted electric drive unit. There is no all-wheel-drive option available, although Fiat did reveal the Grande Panda 4x4 concept in May 2025.

According to Fiat Italia, the Grande Panda Elettrica is rated for up to 199 miles on a full charge. With a bit of luck, the Panda Fastback's longer wheelbase could allow for a higher-capacity battery than the Panda's 43.8-KWh pack.

By Ashley Reyes

Being a woman in the automotive aftermarket requires its own set of skills. Whether you're already leading, being asked to lead more or preparing for what's next in your career, taking time to invest in your development can help you reach your goals faster while providing you with tools to make more meaningful contributions to your organization.    

Women in the automotive aftermarket are invited to attend the SEMA Businesswomen's Network (SBN) Women's Leadership Forum, March 3-5, 2026, in San Diego, California, to gain these five qualities of successful leaders:  

1. Resilience 

Leaders face unique challenges that demand mental strength and adaptability. The Forum will teach attendees how to cultivate resilience as a foundation for leadership success.  

2. Emotional Intelligence 

Emotional intelligence (EQ) is an advantage when balanced with authenticity. The Forum will explore ways to harness EQ to lead with empathy, manage conflict and build trust without compromising your unique voice. 

3. Clear Communication 

Effective leaders know that how you communicate is just as important as what you say. The Forum will help attendees develop an executive presence and speak with clarity, confidence and influence.  

4. Influence 

True leadership is not about the title; it's about influence, impact and the ability to inspire action in others. The Forum will challenge the traditional notions of authority and deliver tools to help attendees lead with authenticity and purpose, no matter their role.  

5. A Trusted Network 

Leadership is stronger with support. Attendees will leave the Forum with a trusted network of women who can offer advice, encouragement and mentorship long after the event ends. 

Seize Your Moment  

The SBN Women's Leadership Forum is the only event of its kind designed to accelerate the growth of women leaders in the automotive aftermarket. Don't miss this opportunity to build the skills, confidence, and connections that move your career forward. Explore the full program and register now at www.sema.org/sbn-wlf. 

By Ashley Reyes

Being a woman in the automotive aftermarket requires its own set of skills. Whether you're already leading, being asked to lead more or preparing for what's next in your career, taking time to invest in your development can help you reach your goals faster while providing you with tools to make more meaningful contributions to your organization.    

Women in the automotive aftermarket are invited to attend the SEMA Businesswomen's Network (SBN) Women's Leadership Forum, March 3-5, 2026, in San Diego, California, to gain these five qualities of successful leaders:  

1. Resilience 

Leaders face unique challenges that demand mental strength and adaptability. The Forum will teach attendees how to cultivate resilience as a foundation for leadership success.  

2. Emotional Intelligence 

Emotional intelligence (EQ) is an advantage when balanced with authenticity. The Forum will explore ways to harness EQ to lead with empathy, manage conflict and build trust without compromising your unique voice. 

3. Clear Communication 

Effective leaders know that how you communicate is just as important as what you say. The Forum will help attendees develop an executive presence and speak with clarity, confidence and influence.  

4. Influence 

True leadership is not about the title; it's about influence, impact and the ability to inspire action in others. The Forum will challenge the traditional notions of authority and deliver tools to help attendees lead with authenticity and purpose, no matter their role.  

5. A Trusted Network 

Leadership is stronger with support. Attendees will leave the Forum with a trusted network of women who can offer advice, encouragement and mentorship long after the event ends. 

Seize Your Moment  

The SBN Women's Leadership Forum is the only event of its kind designed to accelerate the growth of women leaders in the automotive aftermarket. Don't miss this opportunity to build the skills, confidence, and connections that move your career forward. Explore the full program and register now at www.sema.org/sbn-wlf. 

From the SEMA Washington, D.C., office

Industry members are invited to participate in the 2026 SEMA and PRI Washington Rally, taking place in our nation's capital on May 5-6, 2026. 

• The SEMA and PRI Washington Rally is one of our industry's most important events. The Washington Rally provides an opportunity for SEMA and PRI member companies to come together and advocate on behalf of the specialty-automotive aftermarket and motorsports parts industries with members of Congress. 

With the 2026 mid-term election in November and the balance of power in both the House and Senate up for grabs, it's more important than ever for SEMA and PRI members to come to Washington, D.C., to advocate for the industry. Whether it's protecting the right to modify vehicles, creating tax certainty for race tracks, expanding motorized access to federal government lands or another policy issue that's important to your business, there are many important issues facing SEMA and PRI members in the nation's capital.  

While in Washington, D.C., you will have the opportunity to network with your colleagues in the automotive aftermarket industry, meet with your members of Congress and their staff to discuss critical issues and advocate for policies that will benefit our industry. Your participation helps ensure that our industry's concerns are heard and that we can continue to innovate and grow. 
 

2026 Washington Rally Itinerary (All times EDT) 

Tuesday, May 5, 2026 

SEMA and PRI PAC Reception 

5:30-6:30 p.m., Royal Sonesta Washington, D.C. Capitol Hill, Sapphire Room and Terrace (Penthouse Level) 

• A PAC contribution for the suggested amount of $250 per individual is required to attend this event. If you have already made your 2026 SEMA and PRI PAC contribution, this event may be complimentary as a part of your PAC membership benefits. Please direct questions to Eleanor Rollings, SEMA director of PAC development, at eleanorr@sema.org. 

Washington Rally Congressional Dinner 

6:30-8:30 p.m., Royal Sonesta Capitol Hill, Crown Ballroom (Penthouse Level) 
 

Wednesday, May 6, 2026 

Breakfast and Welcome Briefing 

7:30-8:30 a.m., Royal Sonesta Capitol Hill, Crown Ballroom (Penthouse Level) 
 

Morning Meetings with Congressional Lawmakers and Staffs 

9:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m., House and Senate Office Buildings 
 

Congressional Luncheon 

12:00 p.m.-1:30 p.m., Capitol Hill Club 
 

Afternoon Meetings with Congressional Lawmakers and Staffs 

2:00 p.m.-5:00 p.m., House and Senate Office Buildings 

Hotel Accommodations 

There are a limited number of rooms available in a SEMA/PRI block at the Royal Sonesta Washington, D.C., Capitol Hill, for $409 per night, plus tax. A link to book a room is provided upon completion of the registration process. 

For more information on the SEMA and PRI Washington Rally, contact Eric Snyder, SEMA senior director for federal government affairs, at erics@sema.org. 

From the SEMA Washington, D.C., office

Industry members are invited to participate in the 2026 SEMA and PRI Washington Rally, taking place in our nation's capital on May 5-6, 2026. 

• The SEMA and PRI Washington Rally is one of our industry's most important events. The Washington Rally provides an opportunity for SEMA and PRI member companies to come together and advocate on behalf of the specialty-automotive aftermarket and motorsports parts industries with members of Congress. 

With the 2026 mid-term election in November and the balance of power in both the House and Senate up for grabs, it's more important than ever for SEMA and PRI members to come to Washington, D.C., to advocate for the industry. Whether it's protecting the right to modify vehicles, creating tax certainty for race tracks, expanding motorized access to federal government lands or another policy issue that's important to your business, there are many important issues facing SEMA and PRI members in the nation's capital.  

While in Washington, D.C., you will have the opportunity to network with your colleagues in the automotive aftermarket industry, meet with your members of Congress and their staff to discuss critical issues and advocate for policies that will benefit our industry. Your participation helps ensure that our industry's concerns are heard and that we can continue to innovate and grow. 
 

2026 Washington Rally Itinerary (All times EDT) 

Tuesday, May 5, 2026 

SEMA and PRI PAC Reception 

5:30-6:30 p.m., Royal Sonesta Washington, D.C. Capitol Hill, Sapphire Room and Terrace (Penthouse Level) 

• A PAC contribution for the suggested amount of $250 per individual is required to attend this event. If you have already made your 2026 SEMA and PRI PAC contribution, this event may be complimentary as a part of your PAC membership benefits. Please direct questions to Eleanor Rollings, SEMA director of PAC development, at eleanorr@sema.org. 

Washington Rally Congressional Dinner 

6:30-8:30 p.m., Royal Sonesta Capitol Hill, Crown Ballroom (Penthouse Level) 
 

Wednesday, May 6, 2026 

Breakfast and Welcome Briefing 

7:30-8:30 a.m., Royal Sonesta Capitol Hill, Crown Ballroom (Penthouse Level) 
 

Morning Meetings with Congressional Lawmakers and Staffs 

9:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m., House and Senate Office Buildings 
 

Congressional Luncheon 

12:00 p.m.-1:30 p.m., Capitol Hill Club 
 

Afternoon Meetings with Congressional Lawmakers and Staffs 

2:00 p.m.-5:00 p.m., House and Senate Office Buildings 

Hotel Accommodations 

There are a limited number of rooms available in a SEMA/PRI block at the Royal Sonesta Washington, D.C., Capitol Hill, for $409 per night, plus tax. A link to book a room is provided upon completion of the registration process. 

For more information on the SEMA and PRI Washington Rally, contact Eric Snyder, SEMA senior director for federal government affairs, at erics@sema.org. 

From the SEMA Washington, D.C., office

Industry members are invited to participate in the 2026 SEMA and PRI Washington Rally, taking place in our nation's capital on May 5-6, 2026. 

• The SEMA and PRI Washington Rally is one of our industry's most important events. The Washington Rally provides an opportunity for SEMA and PRI member companies to come together and advocate on behalf of the specialty-automotive aftermarket and motorsports parts industries with members of Congress. 

With the 2026 mid-term election in November and the balance of power in both the House and Senate up for grabs, it's more important than ever for SEMA and PRI members to come to Washington, D.C., to advocate for the industry. Whether it's protecting the right to modify vehicles, creating tax certainty for race tracks, expanding motorized access to federal government lands or another policy issue that's important to your business, there are many important issues facing SEMA and PRI members in the nation's capital.  

While in Washington, D.C., you will have the opportunity to network with your colleagues in the automotive aftermarket industry, meet with your members of Congress and their staff to discuss critical issues and advocate for policies that will benefit our industry. Your participation helps ensure that our industry's concerns are heard and that we can continue to innovate and grow. 
 

2026 Washington Rally Itinerary (All times EDT) 

Tuesday, May 5, 2026 

SEMA and PRI PAC Reception 

5:30-6:30 p.m., Royal Sonesta Washington, D.C. Capitol Hill, Sapphire Room and Terrace (Penthouse Level) 

• A PAC contribution for the suggested amount of $250 per individual is required to attend this event. If you have already made your 2026 SEMA and PRI PAC contribution, this event may be complimentary as a part of your PAC membership benefits. Please direct questions to Eleanor Rollings, SEMA director of PAC development, at eleanorr@sema.org. 

Washington Rally Congressional Dinner 

6:30-8:30 p.m., Royal Sonesta Capitol Hill, Crown Ballroom (Penthouse Level) 
 

Wednesday, May 6, 2026 

Breakfast and Welcome Briefing 

7:30-8:30 a.m., Royal Sonesta Capitol Hill, Crown Ballroom (Penthouse Level) 
 

Morning Meetings with Congressional Lawmakers and Staffs 

9:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m., House and Senate Office Buildings 
 

Congressional Luncheon 

12:00 p.m.-1:30 p.m., Capitol Hill Club 
 

Afternoon Meetings with Congressional Lawmakers and Staffs 

2:00 p.m.-5:00 p.m., House and Senate Office Buildings 

Hotel Accommodations 

There are a limited number of rooms available in a SEMA/PRI block at the Royal Sonesta Washington, D.C., Capitol Hill, for $409 per night, plus tax. A link to book a room is provided upon completion of the registration process. 

For more information on the SEMA and PRI Washington Rally, contact Eric Snyder, SEMA senior director for federal government affairs, at erics@sema.org. 

By SEMA News Editors

T.C.I. Engineering

'69-'72 2WD Blazer Chassis

T.C.I. Engineering has released all three versions (Classic, Pro-Touring and Grounded) of its new '69-'72 2WD Blazer chassis. The Classic chassis, the 5/7 drop chassis, utilizes its Pro-Touring IFS and 4-Link rear suspension. The Pro-Touring chassis utilizes its Pro-Touring IFS and Torque Arm rear suspension with stepped rear frame rails. The Grounded chassis utilizes a narrowed track width version of its Pro-Touring IFS and 4-Link rear suspension with even more aggressive stepped rear framerails.

For more information, read the release here on totalcostinvolved.com.

ICON Vehicle Dynamics

'03-'24 Toyota 4Runner Sway Bar Link Kits

ICON has introduced front and rear Sway Bar Link Kits for '03-'24 Toyota 4Runner and associated Toyota platforms. These sway bar links are engineered to match the stock sway bar link length but feature a more robust construction and maintenance-free ball joints to ensure smooth, consistent movement through the entire range of suspension travel. This results in improved on-road handling and more predictable performance off-road.

iconvehicledynamics.com

Releasing a new product? Contact editors@sema.org. 

By SEMA News Editors

Are you hunting for a new job? The SEMA Career Center has a comprehensive listing of automotive-related job openings nationwide. Below are some of the latest postings.

Canepa

Body-Paint Restoration Manager in Scotts Valley, California

Canepa is seeking an experienced individual for its body-paint restoration manager position with a minimum of 10 years of related restoration, paint and detail experience and an extensive background in concours-level vehicle restoration and preparation. Strong management experience is also required.

AWE

Catalog Manager in Horsham, Pennsylvania

This position will be responsible for strategically managing product data workflows, vehicle application updates and dealer data integration. The role will also require the selected candidate to conduct research and prepare business cases to support product decisions and strategic initiatives, and draft complete, presentation-ready sales training materials for new product releases.

Image courtesy of Shutterstock | Mpohodzhay

By SEMA News Editors

Turn 14 Distribution Announces Winner of Toyota Sequoia TRD Pro SEMA Show Build Giveaway

Turn 14 Distribution has announced the winner of its T14 and SuperPro Toyota Sequoia TRD Pro Giveaway, marking the conclusion of the build and testing program capped with a dealer-exclusive promotion.

The '23 Solar Octane Toyota Sequoia TRD Pro was developed in partnership with SuperPro and a network of industry brands. Customers who placed orders for brands featured on this build during the promotional period earned points toward becoming one of the finalists to win the Sequoia.

Team Beefcake Racing, located in Moscow, Ohio, will be the official recipient of the fully built and tested Toyota Sequoia.

Following its SEMA Show debut, the Sequoia was put to the test through a post-show desert shakedown and extensive travel, including Australian off-roading ventures during its visit to SuperPro's headquarters in Brisbane. A complete SuperPro suspension system and King Shocks' 2.5-in. remote-reservoir coilovers delivered improved stability and ride control across demanding conditions. Supporting upgrades included braking, wheel and tire, power, exhaust, lighting and protection components from Hawk Performance, Weld Racing, Mickey Thompson, aFe Power, MagnaFlow, Firestone Airide, LIQUI MOLY, Baja Designs, sPOD, BantamX and Rally Armor.

With every Turn 14 Distribution customer eligible, eight finalists were selected based on a points tally, and the final winner was chosen at random during a private live announcement.

For more information, visit turn14.com.

Got company news? Releasing a new product? Contact editors@sema.org. 

Story and photos by Andreas Conradt, Automedia 

In production since 2021, the Volkswagen T7 multipurpose vehicle is preparing for a refresh. Due in the latter half of 2026 as a '27 model, a prototype has been spotted testing in California specification.

Pictured with Ocean decals on the quarter panels, the camouflaged prototype is undergoing cold-weather testing in Sweden with completely new headlights that are slightly larger than the T7's outgoing units.

Following the camouflage pattern, a continuous light strip is also on the menu, and Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles may further make a case for an illuminated Volkswagen logo. The heavily camouflaged front bumper also shows reworked intakes. On the other hand, thermal management is a must for any manufacturer reengineering Euro 6 powerplants to comply with Euro 7 regulations. Going into effect for all new type approvals on November 29, 2026, the latest standard includes very short trips and extreme cold.

Emissions are measured from the moment the key is turned, and many onboard sensors continuously estimate nitrogen oxides and particulate matter during every trip. Given the above, superior thermal management is one of the pillars of achieving Euro 7 compliance.

Volkswagen has also positioned the T7's turn signals higher up. While there are no visible changes at the rear of this prototype, the series-production model is expected to feature different taillights.

Criticized for shoddy infotainment, the T7 Multivan and plusher California should receive new MIB4 systems for '27. The MIB4 designation stands for Modular Infotainment Matrix 4, a standardized hardware and software architecture that includes an Intelligent Digital Assistant with ChatGPT integration, backlit sliders, menu shortcut bars and a more powerful chipset.

When it comes to engine choices, don't expect any big changes from the current 2.0 TDI, 2.0 TSI and 1.5 eHYBRID. Similarly, the manual transmission is unlikely to return to the Multivan and California because Volkswagen's dual-clutch transaxle is more efficient.

The 1.5 eHYBRID uses a six-speed transmission referred to as the DQ400e, whereas the 2.0 TSI and its diesel counterpart are paired with seven-speed units Volkswagen calls the DQ381. Both transmissions feature wet clutches for improved heat management, smoother low-speed gear shifts and increased torque capacity.

Capable of towing up to 3,500 lbs. as a plug-in hybrid or 4,400 lbs. without any sort of electric assistance, the T7 Multivan and California are available with 4MOTION all-wheel drive only if you pay extra for the plug-in hybrid.

The plug-in hybrid is the punchiest T7, producing a combined 242 hp. In all-electric mode, Volkswagen advertises driving ranges of 55 to 59 miles. With a bit of luck, the '27 facelift will crack into the 60s.