Upgraded Montero is ready to rumble

MITSUBISHI has given the popular Montero Sport a update last year in order to keep it fresh compared to the newer competition. However, are these updates SIGNIfiCANT ENOUGH TO KEEP it competitive?

The 2020 Mitsubishi Montero Sport’s looks have been given a more angular interpretation of their signature Dynamic Shield grille. The fog lamps have also been repositioned while the LED headlights are getting a sleeker design. There are also new 18-inch alloy wheels, revised LED taillights and a redesigned rear bumper. This particular GT 4x2 variant I have here has been dressed up with a bodykit, which somehow defeats the purpose of buying a high-riding pickup-based passenger vehicle (PPV) in the first place.

Less significant updates have been made to the interior though it’s not exactly a bad thing as it remains a functional space. All variants come with an 8-inch touch-screen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto while the GT variant gets a new digital gauge cluster, power liftgate and leather seats. If there’s one gripe about the interior, it would be its width. It’s simply too narrow for three adults to sit comfortably at the back.

Under the Montero’s hood is a 2.4-liter inline-4 MIVEC turbo diesel engine that produces 181 hp and 430 Nm. Power delivery is linear, and with the help of the 8- speed automatic, overtaking is decently accomplished. It does not push you back to your seat in a way the Bi- Turbo Ford Everest Titanium does, but the Montero Sport manages to maintain its pace much better than the Everest at higher RPMs. As for fuel economy, I managed to do 10.1 km/l with hills and steep grades considered. Comfort and handling are pretty good for the class though it’s never a sporty vehicle by any metric.

As a whole, the recent updates made to the Mitsubishi Montero Sport keep it fresh and updated amid stiffer competition in the PPV segment. It helps that this GT 4x2 variant is well priced too at P1,998,000.