Fourth Place
Mitsubishi Montero
What's new
New for the '03, Mitsubishi Montero is a larger V-6, now displacing 3.8 liters. The new engine boosts power to 215 hp at 5,500 rpm and 248 lb-ft of torque at 3,250 rpm and is designed to start building torque early in the rpm range. Also new are throttle-by-wire controls that completely replace the old system and are said to improve throttle response.
Another new system is the Active Skid and Traction Control system that replaces the old limited-slip differentials that were available as options before. The new computer-controlled system uses an Active Brake Traction Control module to control the brakes to limit wheelspin at slow trail speeds or on slippery paved roads.
What we liked
High on everyone's list of praise for the Montero was its interior. Tastefully done and well laid out, the interior made the Montero an easy vehicle to live with. The leather seats were firm, comfortable and supportive. Another nice feature was that the rear seats reclined and provided plenty of legroom. We also liked the trick third-row seat of the Montero--it completely disappears into the floor of the cargo bay when not in use.
Another strong point for the Montero was its highway ride. It would glide down the road and its independent suspension at every corner would suck up roughness in the driving surface without transmitting it to the occupants. Very little wind, road or engine noise makes its way into the interior, and this aural serenity makes for a pleasant highway experience.
Our judges also liked the Montero's Sportronic five-speed automatic transmission. It offers the ability to manually shift the tranny through each gear with a simple up or down flick of the shifter. Best of all, the tranny can be held in each gear all the way up to rev limiter. This was a big aid in the dunes, helping to take advantage of the power output of the 3.8L V-6.
What we didn't like
On the trail, it was easy to discover that the Montero has hardly any flex. Its independent suspension at every corner exhibited very little travel and the Montero will lift tires big-time on uneven surfaces. When this happens the traction-control system kicks in and keeps the Montero propelled onward. However, it requires a bit too much wheelspin to engage it.
Additionally, in low range, both the brakes and the throttle on the Montero are very touchy. This makes it hard to finesse it through technical sections. On twisty mountain roads, the Montero exhibits more body roll than usual. This makes pushing it hard through the corners somewhat unnerving.
Check It Out If:
You're looking for a capable SUV that's been styled to the beat of a different drummer.
Avoid It If:
You want to run in the sand--you'll break the rear plastic panel for sure.
The Short Version:
Very nice engine. Best seats in class. Traction-control system works quite well. Fine visibility for the driver. Not near enough suspension articulation.
Final Verdict
The Mitsubishi Montero is a solid performer on the highway with a great interior. However, if you are looking for a comfortable SUV that also is a capable trail rig, you should move on.