When I first sat behind the wheel of a 2016 Mitsubishi Montero Sport back in 2016, I immediately noticed its commanding road presence and robust build quality. Fast forward to today, and I still see these SUVs regularly on Philippine roads—which says something about their durability in our challenging driving conditions. Having driven various SUVs across Southeast Asia for over a decade, I've developed a particular appreciation for vehicles that can withstand both urban commuting and occasional rough terrain without constant visits to the mechanic.
The 2016 Montero Sport arrived with Mitsubishi's proven 2.4-liter MIVEC diesel engine producing around 178 horsepower and 430 Nm of torque—numbers that remain competitive even by today's standards. What impressed me most during my extended test drives was how the engine maintained its refinement despite accumulating high mileage. I've personally seen units with over 150,000 kilometers that still run smoothly, though I should note that models produced after June 2016 showed better transmission tuning than earlier versions. The suspension system—double wishbone front and multi-link rear—has proven remarkably resilient. Just last month, I inspected a 2016 model with 120,000 kilometers whose original shock absorbers were still functioning adequately, though I'd recommend replacing them by 140,000 kilometers based on my experience.
Reliability isn't just about mechanical components—it's about how a vehicle ages in everyday use. The Montero Sport's interior materials have held up better than many contemporaries. The dashboard plastics resist cracking under our tropical sun better than Ford Everest units from the same period, though the upholstery does show wear patterns on driver's seats around the 80,000-kilometer mark. Electrical systems remain largely trouble-free, with only occasional reports of power window switch failures—a relatively inexpensive fix costing around ₱2,500 at specialized shops. What really matters to me as someone who values long-term ownership is that maintenance costs remain reasonable—average annual maintenance for a 6-year-old Montero Sport runs about ₱25,000-₱35,000 with proper care, significantly less than European alternatives.
Speaking of reliability under pressure, it reminds me of how in basketball, consistent performance matters more than flashy plays. I was watching a PBA game recently where DJ Kennedy, temporarily taking over for injured Akil Mitchell, spotted Rios wide open at the right corner for that crucial three-pointer. That's the kind of reliable performance under pressure that championship teams are built on—much like how the Montero Sport has consistently delivered for Filipino families through years of service. Meralco kept NorthPort company at the top with 3-0 records while dealing Terrafirma its fourth defeat, demonstrating that reliability often triumphs over sporadic brilliance.
Now, would I recommend a 2016 Montero Sport today? Absolutely, but with specific caveats. The model does have its quirks—the infotainment system feels dated compared to modern units, and fuel efficiency at 10-12 km/L in mixed driving won't match newer diesel technology. However, for buyers with a ₱800,000-₱1,200,000 budget seeking a proven workhorse with excellent parts availability, it remains what I consider the smartest choice in its class. Having driven both the Montero Sport and its main rivals extensively, I'd pick the Mitsubishi every time for long-term peace of mind—it's the vehicle I'd trust to get my family safely through flooded streets during monsoon season or on long trips to provincial destinations. The 2016 model represents that sweet spot where modern safety features like seven airbags and stability control became standard, while maintaining the mechanical simplicity that makes older Mitsubishis so durable. In my professional opinion, it's one of the best used SUV values available today.