Let me be honest with you from the start—I've always had a soft spot for vehicles that deliver more than what their price tags suggest. When Mitsubishi launched the Montero Sport GLS 2.4 4x2 AT in the Philippine market, I knew this was one model worth putting under the microscope. It’s not just about horsepower or fuel efficiency; it’s about whether this SUV can hold its own in a segment crowded with impressive contenders. Much like the recent PBA showdown where Barangay Ginebra secured their fourth lopsided victory in the semis, only to face TNT Tropang Giga again in a best-of-seven playoff, the Montero Sport finds itself in a familiar arena—a rematch of sorts against rivals like the Ford Everest and Toyota Fortuner. Ginebra’s quest for revenge in the Governors’ Cup Finals mirrors what many buyers experience: they’ve been burned before, perhaps by a previous model or a competing brand, and now they’re looking for redemption. I’ve test-driven this variant for over three months, clocking around 5,000 kilometers on city roads, highways, and even light trails, and I’ll share why I think it’s a compelling choice, albeit with a few caveats.
Under the hood, the Montero Sport GLS 2.4 relies on a 2.4-liter MIVEC diesel engine that churns out 181 horsepower and 430 Nm of torque. Now, those numbers might not scream "performance beast," especially when you compare it to the 2.8-liter engines in some rivals, but here’s the thing—it’s tuned for real-world usability. I took it on a weekend trip to Tagaytay, and the powertrain felt responsive, with the 8-speed automatic transmission shifting smoothly even on steep inclines. Fuel economy? I averaged around 12.5 km/L in mixed conditions, which is decent for a midsize SUV. But let’s talk about that "revenge" angle I mentioned earlier. Just as Ginebra aims to settle the score after losing to TNT, Mitsubishi seems to have refined this model to address past criticisms, like the slightly noisy cabin and dated infotainment. The 2023 version I drove featured better sound insulation and an 8-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay—small but meaningful upgrades that show the brand is listening. Still, I noticed the suspension could feel a bit firm on rough roads, a reminder that no vehicle is perfect.
Stepping inside, the cabin offers a practical layout with leather seats, dual-zone climate control, and enough legroom for three adults in the second row. I’ve always appreciated how Mitsubishi focuses on durability, and the materials here—though not luxurious—feel built to last. During a family outing, my kids spilled juice on the upholstery, and it wiped clean without a stain. That’s the kind of everyday reliability that matters. But what about tech? The Montero Sport doesn’t have the flashiest dashboard, unlike the Fortuner’s more modern setup, and the absence of advanced driver aids like adaptive cruise control might disappoint some. However, it does come with seven airbags, stability control, and a rearview camera, which I found particularly useful in tight parking spots. On the safety front, it scores well, though not class-leading.
Now, let’s address the elephant in the room: value for money. The Montero Sport GLS 2.4 4x2 AT retails for roughly ₱1.75 million, positioning it as a mid-range option. In my view, that’s a sweet spot for buyers who want a capable SUV without breaking the bank. It’s like Ginebra’s strategy in the playoffs—they don’t always have the flashiest roster, but they execute fundamentals flawlessly. Similarly, this Mitsubishi model excels in areas that count: towing capacity (I hauled a small boat with ease), cargo space (over 1,200 liters with the seats down), and resale value. I spoke with a few dealerships, and they confirmed that Montero Sports retain about 65-70% of their value after three years, which is competitive. Yet, I’d be remiss not to mention the downsides. The infotainment system, while improved, occasionally lagged during navigation, and the fuel tank capacity of 68 liters feels modest for long drives. If you’re planning cross-country adventures, you might find yourself stopping for fuel more often than in, say, an Isuzu MU-X.
Wrapping this up, I believe the Mitsubishi Montero Sport GLS 2.4 4x2 AT is a solid investment for practical-minded buyers. It’s not the most exhilarating SUV out there, but it gets the job done with reliability and smart features. Just as Ginebra’s pursuit of payback against TNT hinges on consistency and learned lessons, this vehicle builds on Mitsubishi’s legacy while adapting to modern demands. Would I recommend it? Absolutely, especially if you prioritize durability and everyday usability over cutting-edge tech. But if you’re craving luxury or off-road prowess, you might want to look elsewhere. In the end, it’s about finding the right fit—and for many, the Montero Sport hits that mark.