EDMUNDS.COM 2004 MITSUBISHI MONTERO
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 Summary
What Edmunds.com Says
An old-school sport-ute that excels off-road, but when it comes to overall performance and passenger-carrying ability, it can''t match its more modern rivals.
Pros
High-quality interior materials, sharp cabin design, large cargo capacity, excellent off-road capability.
Cons
Serious lack of power compared to rivals, mediocre on-road handling, cramped third-row seat.
What''s New for 2004
The Montero gets a standard tire-pressure monitoring system and a revised gauge cluster. The base XLS model is history, leaving the Limited as the sole trim level for 2004. Rear air conditioning, automatic climate control and dual power seats are now standard.
Overview
Introduction:
The first Montero was introduced in 1982 as a compact two-door, no-nonsense SUV. Looking like a Tonka trunk, the feisty Montero proved its toughness by winning the grueling 6,000-mile Paris-to-Dakar rally race in 1983 and 1985. A four-door model eventually joined the line, and in 1992 the Montero was revamped and sported a larger body, more powerful V6 engine and a more luxurious cabin. After years of having a generic, angular body style, the Montero adopted a curious mix of rounded front fenders and an upswept beltline when it was redesigned for 2001. As is usually the case with major redesigns, it also gained size, luxury and safety features -- and weight. In our 2002 midsize SUV comparison test, the Montero finished last. Although it proved capable in off-road treks and felt sprightly around town, its 3.5-liter V6 lacked sufficient mid- and high-end power, making the Mitsu feel sluggish when passing or merging power was needed. The other reasons for its back-of-the-pack rating were a relatively high price and a mostly useless third-row seat. However, kudos went to the Monty for its serious off-road prowess, luxurious and well-finished cabin and safari-size sunroof. In 2003, Mitsubishi put a more powerful 3.8-liter V6 (215 horsepower and 248 pound-feet of torque) engine under the Montero''s sculpted hood, and celebrated the modest increase with styling tweaks. We still don''t think it is enough to make it competitive with class leaders that offer V8 (or V8-like) power and more passenger room, but if the Montero''s off-road ability and unique styling appeal to you, then it may prove a satisfying drive.
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For Pricing information, see Edmunds'' Pricing page. |
Body Styles, Trim Levels and Options:
The Montero comes in one four-door body style as a single trim level. Standard equipment includes leather upholstery, a 315-watt Infinity audio system, dual power seats, sunroof, trip computer, automatic climate control and a leather-and-wood steering wheel. All of last year''s options are now standard, so upgrades are limited to one item: a DVD entertainment system, which deletes the standard six-disc CD changer and sunroof.
Powertrains and Performance:
The only engine available on the Montero is a 3.8-liter V6 that generates 215 horsepower and 248 pound-feet of torque. It''s matched to a five-speed automatic transmission with "Sportronic" shifting that allows manual gear selection. Mitsubishi''s "ActiveTrac" four-wheel-drive system comes standard and offers both full- or part-time operation. The Montero''s 5,000-pound towing capacity is modest compared to V8-powered midsizers like the Dodge Durango and Ford Explorer.
Safety:
Antilock brakes with Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD) and a stability control system are standard. Side airbags for front occupants are also included. In frontal offset crash testing, the Montero earned an "Acceptable" rating (second highest) from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety.
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For more Safety information, see Edmunds'' Safety page. |
Interior Design and Special Features:
Although the overall design is a bit dated, quality materials give the Montero''s cabin a rugged, upscale feel. Maximum cargo capacity is a decent 91.7 cubic feet. A third-row seat is standard, though its flat cushioning and shortage of legroom limit its use to carrying small children. An optional entertainment system is available for rear passengers'' amusement.
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For more Interior Features information, see Edmunds'' Specifications page. |
Driving Impressions:
On the road, the Montero''s suspension is firm enough to keep it under control during evasive maneuvers, but don''t expect carlike handling. The dual-wishbone front and multilink rear suspension results in an overall feel that is soft and forgiving, but minor road irregularities can transmit a surprising amount of harshness throughout the otherwise isolated cabin. The Montero''s off-road prowess is exceptional. Whether it''s rugged washboard pathways, fast fire roads or technical rock-strewn riverbeds, this truck never flinches as it stays the course.
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For more Driving Impressions, Recent Articles and Car Awards from Edmunds'' editors, see Edmunds'' Road Tests page. |
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