Stylists face something of a dilemma when trying to make a practical vehicle look dashing: The most efficient
shape for carrying five people and luggage is, as always, a box. An engine has to go somewhere too, and the ideal
home for it is a smaller box. So the Montero Sport's basic design consists of two boxes.
But those boxes have been smoothed and rounded here, giving the Sport a sleek, distinctive look. Overall, the
styling is a success, though some viewers may find the chopped-top appearance strange at first. The oversized tires
and wheel opening extensions fitted to upscale Sports serve to exaggerate the visual mismatch between body and roof
line. We found it more attractive as familiarity increased because the Montero Sport's design sets it apart from the
rest of the sport-utility pack.
Buyers looking for a rugged look with the utility of a large, efficient station wagon will gravitate toward the
two-wheel-drive models, the base ES and the more powerful LS.
Those who real off-road capability will opt for one of the four-wheel-drive models. Montero Sport's 4WD system
includes a 2-speed shift-on-the-fly transfer case that provides low-range gearing for tough conditions and steep
hills. For extreme off-highway adventures, a choice of a limited-slip or a locking rear differential is available.
Two engines are available. The base model, the Montero Sport ES, is fitted with a 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine
that develops 134 horsepower and a 5-speed manual transmission.
All other Montero Sports are powered by a 173-horsepower 3.0-liter V6. Those models are: LS 2WD, LS 4WD, XLS 2WD
and XLS 4WD. All of them come with a 4-speed automatic transmission, except for the LS 4WD, which can be ordered
with a 5-speed manual.
Mitsubishi's V6 is a rugged, refined engine. We prefer it over the four-cylinder engine, finding that its increased
trailer-pulling ability and all-around civility more than compensate for a decrease in fuel economy. (The 2.4-liter
ES 2WD 5-speed is rated 22/25 mpg city/highway by EPA, while the 3.0-liter LS 2WD automatic gets 19/22. Probably
because of its taller top gear, the LS 4WD with automatic gets 18/21, while the LS 4WD with 5-speed only gets 17/20.)
Other differences between the models are confined largely to varying levels of standard equipment and the
availability of options. The top-of-the-line XLS comes standard with air conditioning, power sunroof, two-tone exterior
paint, fender flares, cruise control, leather upholstery and power windows, mirrors and door locks. These amenities
can be added to the two LS versions at extra cost. Anti-lock braking systems are optional on the two-wheel-drive models
and standard when four-wheel drive is ordered. (The base ES doesn't offer ABS).
In contrast to its sporty exterior, the interior harkens back to the Montero's truck roots, with a large square
dashboard holding essential gauges in front of the driver: speedometer, tachometer, fuel level and water temperature
gauges, plus a bevy of warning lights. Stereo and heating, ventilation and air conditioning controls are centered in
the dash within easy reach of driver and passenger. Each of the four outboard seating positions has a hefty grab
handle, an amenity much appreciated when riding off road. Mitsubishi's traditional Multi-Meter was one of the
options fitted to our test vehicle; it carries compass, outside temperature, battery voltage and oil pressure
readouts. A compass can be quite useful in the backcountry and oil pressure gauges can be useful whenever the engine
is running out of oil.
Exterior style concessions haven't robbed the Montero Sport of essential interior space. Plenty of leg- and
headroom has been provided for five passengers. Outward visibility is first-rate, though we're not completely
sold on the dark-tinted privacy glass, which reduces visibility at night.
All Montero Sport models have good-looking cloth seats except the XLS, which comes with a good-looking leather interior. Seats are well-padded and comfortable, and the range of adjustment for the front seats is sufficient to give most people plenty of legroom without cramping the folks in the back seats. Lots of luggage can be brought along; even with a full load of passengers on board more than 43 cubic feet of load space is available. Folding the rear seats down provides nearly 80 cubic feet of cargo capacity.
By class standards, the Montero Sport's soft suspension, power steering and extensive application of sound-deadening
materials make it a smooth highway cruiser. The high seating position is beneficial as well, putting the driver in a
position to see over whatever blocks the path.
Real-world use tends to highlight the best and worst features of sport-utilities, however, so bear in mind that
comfort and softness are relative terms. The Montero Sport's ride quality does not achieve passenger-car levels.
Neither does maneuverability. You will get jiggled around somewhat by rough pavement, and will need to be aware of
handling limitations if sudden, evasive action is needed on the highway. Tight parking spaces will highlight the
large turning radius.
Driven appropriately, however, the Montero Sport is a class leader in both handling and ride quality. And thanks to
its proven chassis hardware (a rugged box-section steel frame and hefty suspension pieces taken from the Montero) and
a generous 8.5 inches of ground clearance, the Montero Sport can be driven off road with confidence. If trail-busting
is on your agenda, we suggest ordering the limited-slip rear differential and bigger wheels and tires.
Mitsubishi's four-wheel-drive system uses a traditional floor-mounted lever with which the driver chooses between
2WD, 4WD and 4WD Low. The 4WD positions are strictly for off-road use or when snow is heavy enough to allow wheel
slippage in tight corners.
On the highway, the Sport is a bit noisy; tire treads are the prime culprits at low speeds, joined by the engine
when accelerating or cruising at high speeds. There's also a shortage of horsepower. These traits are common to most
sport-utilities, so they'll come as no surprise to the experienced SUV owner. Just allow extra room for passing maneuvers.