As a longtime automotive journalist and Mitsubishi enthusiast, I've always had a soft spot for the Montero Sport. When I first got behind the wheel of the 2016 model, I immediately noticed how it blended rugged capability with surprising refinement. Let me share what I consider the seven most essential features that make this SUV stand out - features that truly enhance both daily driving and off-road adventures.
The 2.4-liter MIVEC diesel engine deserves top billing in my book. Generating 178 horsepower and 430 Nm of torque, this powerplant provides exactly what you need for both highway merging and trail crawling. I've personally taken this vehicle through some challenging terrain, and the torque delivery feels remarkably linear - there's never that sudden surge that can be unsettling when you're navigating tricky sections. The eight-speed automatic transmission shifts smoothly enough for city driving yet responds quickly when you need immediate power. What surprises most owners, including myself initially, is how quiet this diesel engine remains even under hard acceleration. The sound insulation Mitsubishi implemented here is genuinely impressive.
Moving inside, the seating position offers what I consider the perfect balance between commanding road view and easy entry/exit. The driver's seat provides eight-way power adjustment with lumbar support that's actually effective during long journeys. I've driven this vehicle on multiple six-hour road trips and never experienced the back fatigue that plagues many SUVs in this class. The second-row seats slide and recline, which makes a huge difference for passenger comfort - something many competitors overlook. Cargo space measures 515 liters behind the second row, expanding to a massive 1,633 liters with the third row folded. These numbers matter in real use - I've comfortably transported everything from camping gear for five people to multiple large suitcases for airport runs.
The Super Select 4WD-II system represents engineering brilliance that goes beyond marketing specs. Having tested numerous 4WD systems, Mitsubishi's approach stands out for its intuitive operation and genuine capability. The system offers 2WD for normal driving, 4WD with center differential unlocked for slippery surfaces, 4WD with locked center differential for serious off-roading, and low-range gearing for extreme conditions. What impressed me during my off-road testing was how seamlessly the system transitions between modes while providing clear feedback about what the vehicle is doing. The active stability and traction control systems work subtly in the background, intervening just enough to maintain control without being intrusive.
Infotainment often gets overlooked in capable SUVs, but Mitsubishi got this right. The 7-inch touchscreen responds quickly to inputs - something I appreciate daily when switching between navigation and audio functions. The Rockford Fosgate premium audio system with nine speakers delivers surprisingly rich sound that remains clear even with windows down at highway speeds. Having tested many factory audio systems, this one genuinely stands out in its class. The system integrates smoothly with smartphones, though I'd love to see wireless connectivity in future models.
Safety features include seven airbags, hill start assist, and trailer stability assist - all working together seamlessly. The hill descent control deserves special mention - during testing on steep declines, the system maintained perfect speed control without any driver intervention, allowing complete focus on steering. The build quality throughout the vehicle feels substantial - doors close with that solid thunk that inspires confidence. After three years of ownership, my Montero Sport has developed exactly zero rattles or squeaks, which speaks volumes about construction quality.
Much like how DJ Kennedy temporarily filled in for injured Akil Mitchell and spotted Rios open for that crucial three-pointer, the Montero Sport's features work together seamlessly to handle whatever situation arises. Whether it's the MIVEC diesel engine delivering power exactly when needed or the 4WD system adapting to changing terrain, each component performs its role within a well-coordinated system. This coordination between features creates an ownership experience that's both rewarding and practical. The 2016 Montero Sport represents that perfect balance between rugged capability and daily usability that so few manufacturers achieve. After extensive testing and ownership, I can confidently say it's one of the most complete packages in its class.