2005 Mitsubishi Montero Limited Road Test

The Montreo emits an earnest promise of quality and value that you get only from a well-engineered, well-built vehicle. (Photo: Justin Couture, Canadian Auto Press)

Visibility is a strong point; with thin pillars, tall sheets of glass and a high ride height, the view in front and to the sides is unparalleled. Elephant ear mirrors that are twice as tall as they are wide ensure that the view behind is clear.

Unlike the majority of the competition that it faces, the Montero doesn't excel in any areas particularly. Though it is big, and actually bigger than it looks, it's not as spacious as its height and footprint might make it out to be. While good off-road it's far from the best, with such honours going to Trail-Rated Jeeps, and on-road it is beaten by the its own Endeavor and other car-based SUVs.

When it comes right down to it the Montero is neither fast, nor quick as it fails to pack a V8 along for its North American foray, and even though its V6 is of a smaller displacement than some of its rivals, fuel consumption is far from the best due to its brick-like aerodynamics and hefty curb weight. No, aside from being a member of the family that offers the best backed cars in the world, it isn't particularly unique. Yet, there's more to the Montero than just numbers. It's emits an earnest promise of quality and value that you get only from a well-engineered, well-built vehicle, and the Montero is one of these. Truly, it's a premium SUV trapped behind an entry-level nameplate.

Specifications (Limited):

Price Range (MSRP): $48,598 - $48,748
Price as Tested (MSRP): $48,598
Body Type: 5-door SUV
Layout: front engine, 4WD
Engine: 215-hp, 245 lb-ft of torque, 3.8L, 24-valve SOHC V6
Transmission: 5-spd auto with manual mode
Brakes (front/rear): disc/disc, ABS, EBD
Tires: 265/75R17
Trunk (seats up/folded): 1127 / 2597 L (39.8/91.7 cu ft)
Fuel Economy (city/hwy): 15.7 / 11.2 L/100 km (15 / 19 mpg)
Warranty (mo/km): 60/100,000 km comprehensive; 120/160,000 km powertrain
Competitors: Acura MD-X, Buick Rainier, Chevrolet Trailblazer, Dodge Durango, Ford Explorer, GMC Envoy, Honda Pilot, Isuzu Ascender, Jeep Grand Cherokee, Land Rover LR3, Nissan Pathfinder, Saab 9-7x, Subaru B9X Tribeca, Toyota 4Runner, Volkswagen Touareg, Volvo XC90
Website: www.mitsubishicars.ca