As I slide behind the wheel of the Mitsubishi Montero Sport GLS 2.4 4x2 AT, I can't help but draw parallels to the basketball court dynamics we witnessed in the recent PBA semifinals. Much like Ginebra's dominant fourth lopsided victory that secured their finals berth against TNT, this SUV demonstrates a commanding presence that demands attention. Having spent considerable time testing various midsize SUVs across different terrains, I've developed particular preferences for vehicles that balance everyday practicality with occasional thrilling performance - and the Montero Sport consistently stands out in this competitive segment.
The heart of this machine lies in its 2.4-liter MIVEC diesel engine, which generates 181 horsepower and 430 Nm of torque. These numbers might not seem extraordinary at first glance, but in real-world driving conditions, they translate to remarkably responsive acceleration. I remember navigating through city traffic during peak hours, where the 8-speed automatic transmission shifted with such seamless precision that I barely noticed the gear changes. The transmission's programming reminds me of a well-executed basketball play - when Ginebra executed those flawless fast breaks against their semifinal opponents, every movement flowed naturally into the next. Similarly, the Montero Sport's powertrain components work in perfect harmony, delivering power exactly when and where you need it.
Fuel efficiency proved better than I anticipated during my testing period. On highway drives maintaining speeds around 90 km/h, I recorded figures averaging 18.5 km/L, though urban driving naturally brought this down to approximately 12.3 km/L. These numbers matter significantly for Filipino families who, like me, need to consider monthly fuel budgets amidst rising gasoline prices. The 70-liter fuel tank provides a theoretical range of nearly 1,300 kilometers on highways - enough to drive from Manila to Legazpi City with fuel to spare.
Ride comfort deserves special mention because this is where Mitsubishi engineers clearly invested considerable development time. The suspension absorbs road imperfections with the same strategic finesse that Ginebra displayed in overcoming their playoff challenges. Even on rough provincial roads that would have lesser SUVs rattling uncomfortably, the Montero Sport maintained impressive composure. The seats provide excellent lumbar support that I particularly appreciated during a five-hour drive to Baguio - something I can't say about some of its Japanese competitors.
Now, let's address the interior and technology features, which genuinely surprised me with their thoughtful implementation. The 8-inch touchscreen interface responds more intuitively than many premium German models I've tested, though the graphics could use modernization. What impressed me most was the strategic placement of USB ports - four in total, with two specifically positioned for rear passengers. This attention to practical details demonstrates Mitsubishi's understanding of modern family needs. The leather-wrapped steering wheel feels substantial in hand, providing confidence during cornering that reminds me of how a seasoned point guard controls the game tempo.
Off-road capability exceeds expectations for a 4x2 configuration. During testing on moderate trails in Rizal province, the Montero Sport tackled inclines and uneven surfaces that would typically challenge vehicles in this category. The approach angle of 30 degrees and departure angle of 24.2 degrees provide clearance advantages that many owners might never fully utilize but offer peace of mind during unexpected road conditions, especially during monsoon season when Metro Manila streets transform into temporary rivers.
Safety features warrant particular praise, with seven airbags standard across the range - a configuration that puts some European models to shame. The inclusion of Hill Start Assist and Active Stability Control proved invaluable during steep ascents in Tagaytay, where the system automatically maintained brake pressure for approximately two seconds after releasing the pedal, preventing rollback on inclines up to 30 degrees. These systems operate with the same reliability that championship teams demonstrate in crucial moments - you might not notice them constantly, but their presence becomes invaluable when needed most.
Driving dynamics reveal interesting characteristics that set the Montero Sport apart from competitors like the Fortuner and Everest. The steering provides adequate feedback without becoming overly heavy at low speeds, striking a balance that I've come to prefer over the typically heavier steering in Toyota models. Body roll exists but remains well-controlled through corners, inspiring more confidence than I expected from a vehicle of this size. The brakes respond progressively with good initial bite - I recorded stopping distances from 100 km/h averaging 42.3 meters during controlled testing, though actual results vary with road conditions.
Considering its price point of approximately ₱1,768,000, the Montero Sport GLS 2.4 4x2 AT delivers value that's difficult to match in today's market. It's not perfect - the third-row seats remain best suited for children, and the infotainment system lacks wireless smartphone integration that's becoming standard in newer models. Yet these compromises feel strategic rather than oversight, much like how championship teams focus on core strengths rather than attempting to excel in every possible aspect.
After extensive testing across various conditions, I've developed genuine appreciation for how Mitsubishi has refined this model over generations. It embodies the same relentless improvement spirit we witnessed in Ginebra's journey to the finals - learning from past shortcomings while building upon established strengths. The Montero Sport may not revolutionize the segment, but it executes the fundamentals with polished competence that earns my strong recommendation for Filipino families seeking a dependable, capable, and surprisingly refined midsize SUV.
Let me tell you about the first time I truly understood the power of sports photography. I was courtside during a particularly intense basketball game, watch
