Overview & Reviews

The Mitsubishi Montero never quite became a household name in the United States, but fans of true SUVs, whose attention extends beyond America's borders know what it's about. Fact is, this rugged rock-hopper has been off-roading its way around the world for decades and taking home more than a few trophies in the famously grueling Dakar Rally in the process. Mitsubishi has built up plenty of respect for the name Montero -- or Pajero, as this midsize SUV is known in other global markets.

In the three generations and 24 years that the Montero was sold here, Mitsubishi moved it upscale in terms of size, power and class. But all the way through, the Montero never lost its roots as an off-road-worthy vehicle. Four-wheel drive was always standard, and specialty items such as locking differentials and adjustable shock absorbers were available on the second-generation Montero.

Unfortunately, this off-road bias became increasingly at odds with the way many Americans drove their SUVs. The Mitsubishi Montero was tall, heavy and high off the ground, and consequently felt slow-witted on the street. For the third generation, Mitsubishi made fundamental shifts to the Montero's hardware and driving character in hopes of improving the vehicle's appeal. It wasn't enough, however, as this model suffered in regards to on-road performance, engine power and interior roominess. Furthermore, the Montero received some injurious publicity when Consumer Reports reported that this midsize SUV had a susceptibility to rolling over in high-speed turns.

While the Montero was reborn for a fourth life in other nations, Mitsubishi decided America's midsize SUV needs would be better filled by the more efficient, more street-oriented Endeavor crossover. That's a sentiment we share, though the Montero still deserves a look for those shoppers needing a used SUV with solid off-road credentials.

Most Recent Mitsubishi Montero

The third-generation Montero midsize SUV was sold from 2001-'06 and marked several key design changes over the previous generation. The most significant was a switch from body-on-frame to unibody construction to lighten and stiffen the chassis. The suspension was also revised and became fully independent for the first time. These changes, along with a switch from recirculating-ball steering to a more precise rack-and-pinion setup, promised that this model would be the best-riding, best on-road-driving Montero yet.

To a degree, it delivered. The new Mitsubishi Montero certainly dealt with bumps more forgivingly and handled with more precision than before. Off-road ability was still intact as well. However, it still lagged in too many key areas. First, the Montero used the same 3.5-liter V6 as before, and its 200 horsepower provided anemic acceleration at higher speeds. Its handling was also a letdown due to a combination of too-slow steering and excessive body lean, giving it a ponderous feel. We found little compensation in ride quality, which was on the stiff side.

We were more impressed by the Montero's interior, at least in appearance. Solid ergonomics, upscale materials and supremely comfortable front seats made the Montero feel like part of a more expensive class of SUV. Cargo space was generous, too. But comfort wasn't uniform throughout the cabin. The second-row seats were short on thigh support, and the Montero's standard third-row bench had legroom skimpy enough to cramp all but small children.

When this Montero debuted, there were two trim levels: XLS and Limited. The XLS came with a decent amount of equipment including air-conditioning, a CD stereo, power accessories, cruise control, antilock brakes and front seat side airbags. A four-speed automatic came paired to the V6 engine, and part-time four-wheel drive was standard. The Limited added a five-speed automatic transmission with manual shift mode, "Active Trac" full-time four-wheel drive, a limited-slip rear differential and upgraded interior appointments such as leather seats and an Infinity stereo.

In 2003, the XLS gained two useful items formerly reserved for the Limited: the five-speed transmission and Active Trac. Also in 2003, Monteros received a 3.8-liter V6 with 215 hp, a stability control system and a head restraint and a three-point belt for the center rear seat. For this model's final two years, Mitsubishi discontinued the XLS trim.

To anyone drawn to a Mitsubishi Montero, we recommend models from 2003 onwards. The added engine power helps to improve the vehicle's acceleration times slightly, while providing more usable torque for highway maneuvers, and the stability control system is a valuable safety feature. Additionally, the XLS's upgraded hardware put it on more equal footing with the Limited. Prior to that, the Limited makes a better choice.

Past Mitsubishi Montero Models

The second-generation Montero was sold from 1992-2000. Smaller than its predecessor in every way but height, this Montero was a traditional four-wheel-drive SUV with body-on-frame construction and a solid rear axle.

Power initially came from a 3.0-liter V6 with 151 hp, available with either a four-speed automatic or five-speed manual transmission. In 1994, a 3.5-liter DOHC V6 with 215 hp joined the lineup (with the automatic transmission only), and in 1995 the base 3.0-liter V6 got a boost to 177 hp. In 1997 both engines were discontinued in favor of a new single-cam 3.5-liter V6 with 200 hp, and the manual transmission disappeared.

Initially, the second-gen Mitsubishi Montero came in four trim levels: base, RS, LS and SR. The top two, LS and SR, came only with the automatic transmission and added amenities like power accessories, a tilt steering wheel and cruise control, plus optional electronic adjustable shock absorbers. The LS had antilock brakes from the start; the SR got them the next year. The SR could also be had with a rear differential with limited-slip and full locking capability.

For 1994, the Montero lineup was simplified to LS and SR lines, with the latter getting the new 3.5-liter V6 plus alloy wheels, antilock brakes, air-conditioning, a sunroof, CD stereo, keyless entry and in certain years, adjustable shocks and a locking rear differential. All Monteros now had seven-passenger seating and a driver-side front airbag. A passenger airbag was fitted in 1996, and in '98, Mitsubishi consolidated the trim lines into one well-equipped, slightly restyled model.

This Montero definitely drove more like a truck than did its successor: It was slow to move off the line, tippy in turns and sloppy in steering. Still, since there was no such thing as a "crossover" midsize SUV at the time, the Montero wasn't an entirely bad choice. Its interior was rather luxurious (if busily styled), its first two rows of seats were fairly comfortable and it was bigger and roomier than most rivals. Plus, rear passengers got a kick out of its gigantic sunroof. Only after the 1996 Nissan Pathfinder came along did the Montero start to seem dynamically primitive.

Because no Montero of this generation can hit 60 mph in fewer than 10 seconds, we'd recommend at least picking a sample with one of the two 3.5-liter V6s. The dual-cam version in the 1994-'96 SR would pack the most punch, though the single-cam version found in all Mitsubishi Monteros from 1997 onwards is nearly as quick, and the dual airbags and extra standard equipment of the later models are certainly pluses.

You could also go way back to the first-generation Mitsubishi Montero of 1983-'91. Its structure, mechanical layout and four-wheel-drive hardware were similar to the second-generation's, though it was a tad smaller and was available in two-door form through 1990. There was no third-row seat back then, and the interior has a dated, spartan appearance by today's standards.

User Reviews:

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  Excellent Truck - 2006 Mitsubishi Montero
  By seminole_67 - March 18 - 9:13 am

  I wanted one of these when they changed the body style in 2000. I now have the last Black Limited in my area. It is by far a great vehicle. Comfy, roomy, leather, heated seats, moonroof, all a plus. It has excellent quality, no issues what-so-ever to date. I get many complements on my truck, as many people havent had the pleasure to have seen the Montero Limited. Coming from a 1998 Expedition, this was big change for me. I had looked at the Toureag, H3, and Aspen, this is the one I came away with. I am truly happy. Would buy another one.

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  Head Turner - 2003 Mitsubishi Montero
  By Gino 3 - March 9 - 8:30 pm

  I have had a Montero Limited for 5 yrs and I love it. I actually preferred my montero over my Dads Hummer H2 when he asked me which one I would prefer to have. I love the interiors quality and comfort. It does great off-roading with a rock solid frame. Has a good take off for an SUV of its size. Everywhere I go it always turns head and people are always asking what kinda of car it is and most even think its an 08 or 09 model. Great sound system for being stock, I wish it would have the fourth generations 650 watt Rockford Fosgate system with a 10" sub with 12 speakers and 240hp MIVEC engine though, but it will do. I would never choose any other SUV over my Montero besides the H1 alpha.

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  2003 Monty (bought used) - 2003 Mitsubishi Montero
  By markt - February 28 - 9:36 pm

  recently purchased used 03 monty ltd and love it. looked at all and kept coming back (i also own a 95 monty). you should know that the land cruiser, range rover, and monty were made to be suvs. all others are built on truck (sequoia, yukon, explorer) or van chasis (pilot, highlander). if you want a true suv and cash left over, consider the montero, its tough but still drives like a "true" suv should. outstanding 4 wheel drive system--have 4 settings to choose from and can drive in 2wd until i need 4wd. this saves fuel comsumption. dont know why the "experts" are down on the monty, has plenty of power and is very reliable (only tires, brakes, etc., on my 95).

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  Solid SUV - 2003 Mitsubishi Montero
  By REMITCHELL - January 11 - 2:00 am

  I just purchased this SUV after 6 months of research. After test driving almost all equivelent SUVs I found this one to come out on top in all catagories with the exception of its underpowered motor. The interior is laid out nicely but I am not a big fan of wood grain interiors. That is a personal preference so if you like that sort of thing this SUV has plenty to offer. I highly endorse this vehicle to anyone.

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  Wonderful SUV!!! - 2001 Mitsubishi Montero
  By Monty-Fan - January 5 - 2:00 am

  Now owned 6 mo. and driven 6,000 mi., and my opinion - as close to perfect as most things get! Sure it drinks gas. Sure its no Porsche. And sure its costly to purchase. What do you expect? Its a big, heavy, luxury SUV! It rides beautifully, is extraordinarily comfortable, has premium "touch & feel", and is just plain lovable!! I drove nearly every SUV built today (Hummer & Cadillac being the exceptions) before choosing this gem, and to me it rivaled a couple and far exceeded the rest. Go ahead and compare, youll likely find this one to be one of the top 5 (top 10 at the least). Nice redesign Mitsubishi - I love this machine!!!

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  120k+, It keeps going and... - 2003 Mitsubishi Montero
  By Bryan Calnton - January 2 - 12:33 pm

  I drive a steep and curvy mountain every day. At first I was a bit disappointed in the handling. I replaced the tires from the dealer and WOW! What a difference. I end up passing motorcycles over the mountain. (Do not try that at home.) It handles very well for a SUV. The gas mileage for what I put it through is great 17 mpg. I am a contractor, one day I pulled a tandem dump truck out of a steep driveway on one of my job sites. Saved me a wrecker bill. It was in 2LLC slow going but it did the job. I am so proud to own this Montero. Edmunds.com take another Montero out for a test drive, I guarantee if you change the tires you will change your mind.

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  Built to Last - 2001 Mitsubishi Montero
  By Silverado - December 17 - 10:00 am

  Drove Monteros and Landcruisers while working in Saudi Arabia back in the 80s. I could tell the quality even with this Monteros predecessor. Toyota and Mitsubishi know how to make true reliable 4 wheel drive automobiles. The beauty of the Montero is that it has the ride and fit and finish of the Landcruiser, with a much better designed interior, but is thousands less!

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  look no further - 2002 Mitsubishi Montero
  By DesertStorm AZ - November 22 - 10:00 am

  I test drove ALL the SUVs, big and small, BMW, Merc Benz, Honda Pilot .... This one had the best bang for the buck! I like the dashboard, side opening rear door, the fold down 3rd seat, leather seats, and leg room. Living in Phoenix, the car really cools down quickly in the 100 + weather. It had the best "air" system. Standard is the 4AWD, 2WD,4WD. It doesnt feel like it will turn over like everyone has been saying. This has enough space without the feel of "driving your living room". Watch for holdbacks and discounts on this SUV. I did and got the price I wanted for the Limited.. under 36,000.. including tax!

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  We Love Our Montero - 2002 Mitsubishi Montero
  By Jen & Mike - November 4 - 10:00 am

  We were leaning towards a Ford Escort, Honda Pilot or Toyota 4Runner when we bought the Montero. Went with the Montero due to the great price & financing and couldnt be happier. Its super comfortable inside & has tons of convenient cargo room. The rear seat is small, but we just about never use that for seating anyway. Weve been skiing, offroading, and driving on the pitted streets of Philadelphia and weve had no problems so far. Plus, when we got pummeled with 2 feet of snow this winter, we had no parking problems since the Montero scaled huge mounds of snow with ease.

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  Great Purchase - 2003 Mitsubishi Montero
  By babs62202 - October 24 - 10:00 am

  We test drove several SUVs (including: Mercedes, Volvo, the new VW) when we were looking for a new SUV. No other SUV maker had the options that Mitsubishi had. All were compareable on gas milage. But the Montero had the fold down 3rd row seats (they dont get in the way like the Mercedes), nice interior features (I love that the front row armrest adjusts to the driver and it looks better then Volvo), and 4wd standard. I wouldnt change my choice. Also I had a great dealership to work with.