I still remember the first time I test drove the 2016 Mitsubishi Montero Sport back when it was freshly released. That commanding driving position and robust diesel engine made quite an impression on me, but the real question we're all wondering about today is whether this SUV still holds up as a reliable choice eight years later. Having followed automotive reliability patterns for over a decade, I've developed some strong opinions about what makes a vehicle stand the test of time, and the Montero Sport presents an interesting case study.
When we talk about reliability in older vehicles, it's not just about whether the engine still starts in the morning - though the Montero's 2.4-liter diesel engine has proven remarkably durable in my experience. The real test comes from how all the components age together. I've tracked maintenance records from several Montero Sport owners, and the consistent theme is that the powertrain remains solid even at higher mileages. One owner I spoke with reported crossing 120,000 miles with only routine maintenance, which aligns with what I've seen in the market. The transmission, particularly the five-speed automatic, does show its age compared to newer eight-speed units, but it's proven less problematic than some contemporary transmissions from other manufacturers.
What really separates the 2016 Montero Sport from its competitors today is its value proposition. While newer SUVs might offer more advanced driver assistance features, the Montero's simpler systems mean there's less to go wrong electronically. I've always preferred vehicles with fewer complex electronics for long-term ownership, and this is where the Montero truly shines. The infotainment system feels dated now, absolutely, but you won't face the expensive control module failures that can plague newer vehicles. From my perspective, this trade-off makes perfect sense for budget-conscious buyers.
The interior materials have held up better than I initially expected. The seats in particular, with their durable fabric upholstery in base models, show minimal wear in most examples I've inspected. Compare this to some leather interiors from the same era that are now cracking, and Mitsubishi's material choices seem quite thoughtful in retrospect. Cargo space remains generous at about 1,500 liters with rear seats folded, which I've found more practical than many newer crossovers that sacrifice utility for style.
Now, every vehicle has its weaknesses, and the Montero Sport is no exception. The suspension components, especially bushings and shock absorbers, tend to need replacement around the 80,000-mile mark based on what I've observed. This isn't unusual for an SUV of this size and age, but it's something potential buyers should budget for. Fuel economy was never this vehicle's strong suit - you're looking at about 22 mpg combined in real-world driving, which falls short of modern diesel alternatives.
Looking at the broader picture, the 2016 Montero Sport occupies a unique position in today's used SUV market. It's modern enough to feel comfortable on highways, yet simple enough to maintain without specialized tools or knowledge. I've noticed prices for clean examples holding remarkably steady around $18,000-$22,000 depending on mileage and condition, which speaks to its enduring appeal. While it lacks the refinement of newer SUVs, there's something to be said for its honest, no-nonsense approach to utility that I find refreshing in today's overcomplicated automotive landscape.
Ultimately, whether the 2016 Mitsubishi Montero Sport remains a reliable choice comes down to your priorities as a buyer. If you value low maintenance costs and proven mechanical durability over cutting-edge features, it represents one of the smarter choices in its segment. The vehicle has aged in some aspects, but its core strengths - that torquey diesel engine, robust chassis, and straightforward mechanics - continue to make it a compelling option for practical-minded SUV shoppers today.