Let me tell you about the 2016 Mitsubishi Montero Sport - a vehicle that completely changed my perspective on what a midsize SUV could deliver. I remember test driving this model back when it first hit the markets, and even today, its combination of rugged capability and refined features continues to impress me. What struck me most was how Mitsubishi managed to pack so much value into a package that started at around $28,000 for the base model, making it one of the most competitive options in its class.
The Montero Sport's performance specs tell quite a story - its 3.0L V6 diesel engine delivers 190 horsepower and 322 lb-ft of torque, numbers that translate to real-world capability whether you're navigating city streets or tackling rough terrain. I've personally taken this vehicle through some challenging conditions, and the Super Select 4WD-II system never failed to impress with its seamless transition between driving modes. The eight-speed automatic transmission shifts smoother than what you'd expect from a vehicle with such off-road credentials, making highway driving surprisingly comfortable. What many people don't realize is how well Mitsubishi balanced the Montero Sport's rugged character with daily drivability - the fuel economy sits at around 28 mpg on the highway, which is quite respectable for a vehicle of this size and capability.
Inside the cabin, you'll find features that were quite advanced for its time, including a 7-inch touchscreen display that, while not massive by today's standards, was perfectly integrated into the dashboard design. The leather seats in higher trims provide excellent support during long drives, and the third-row seating, though a bit cramped for adults, offers flexibility that many families will appreciate. Safety features like the multi-terrain ABS and active stability control provide peace of mind, though I do wish Mitsubishi had included more advanced driver assistance systems as standard across all trims.
The exterior design has aged remarkably well, with its dynamic shield front grille and sharp character lines giving it a presence that still turns heads today. I've always been partial to the Lunar Gray Metallic color option, which seems to highlight the vehicle's muscular proportions perfectly. The 2016 model year brought several important updates, including improved noise insulation that made the cabin significantly quieter than previous generations - something I noticed immediately during my test drives.
Looking back, the 2016 Montero Sport represents what I consider a sweet spot in Mitsubishi's lineup - offering substantial capability without compromising on comfort or breaking the bank. While newer models have more technology, there's something about this particular year that just feels right to me. It's the kind of vehicle that proves you don't need to spend luxury SUV money to get something that's genuinely capable and comfortable. For anyone in the market for a used SUV that can handle both family duties and weekend adventures, the 2016 Montero Sport remains one of my top recommendations even years after its initial release.