CARS REVIEW

Car Profiles Mitsubishi Montero Sport 2008 Current

2008-Current Mitsubishi Montero Sport

The Good: Not matagtag, plenty of models in the market, numerous features available

The Bad: Limited space in the third row, not great off-road, does not like low revs

The Say: Definitely lives up to its sporty name.

Go For: 2.5 GLS/GLX (non VGT)
Avoid: 3.0 V6

Price Range: P990,000-P1,400,000
Our Rating: ****

Related Reviews:
None as of the Moment

Car Choices:
For the Montero, its a diesel to go. You get a number of variants fitted with that engine. First launched in 2008 and dropped in 2011, the 163hp 3.2 would activate its potential in the higher rpms. Made available in 2009 and was brought back in 2012, the 134hp 2.5 with CRDi technology would motivate the Montero with an anemic start but let the turbo kick in, it will come alive. A turbo upgrade (those models are marked with a V in the end) done in 2011 gave the Montero more top end torque but at the expense of fuel economy and acceleration (it is not smooth). For practical reasons, we would go for the CRDi powered 2.5 (available with the GLS from 2009 to February 2011 and GLX during June 2012 onward) but the VGT powered (fitted in the GLS-V and GTV) ones are also good, too.

Introduced in 2012, the 3.0 V6 gasoline is a smooth operator but fuel consumption is lower than both the 3.2 and the VGT powered ones and maintenance costs are high.

Numerous standard equipment treats Montero buyers, which is definitely a good thing that in fact, yearly changes usually occurs. Leather seating is available only on the top models (GLS SE and GTV), and prior to 2011 with all variants gain a touch screen monitor that is GPS ready, an aftermarket stereo system is the standard fare. Importantly, all models get airbags, ABS brakes, power windows, power door locks, power mirrors, roof rails, and side step boards.