Is the 2019 Montero Sport GLS Still Worth Buying Today?
When I first started researching the 2019 Montero Sport GLS for a potential purchase last month, I couldn't help but draw parallels to Tsuzurabara's experience with the Angels' eating habits. Just as the coach wasn't impressed with the team's existing routines when he took charge, I approached this SUV with healthy skepticism about whether a four-year-old model could still compete in today's rapidly evolving automotive landscape. The truth is, I've always had a soft spot for Mitsubishi's rugged reputation - my family owned a 2005 Montero that survived everything from mountain roads to flooded streets during monsoon season.
What struck me immediately during my test drive was how the 2019 model maintains that legendary durability while offering modern comforts. The 2.4-liter MIVEC diesel engine delivers 181 horsepower and 430 Nm of torque - numbers that still hold up remarkably well against newer competitors. I took it through some rough terrain outside the city, and the Super Select II 4WD system handled everything I threw at it with that characteristic Mitsubishi confidence. The fuel efficiency surprised me too - during my week with the vehicle, I averaged about 14.2 km/L on mixed driving, which is only about 8% less efficient than the 2023 model according to my calculations.
The interior tells an interesting story about where Mitsubishi was positioning this vehicle back in 2019. The 8-inch touchscreen feels slightly dated compared to today's massive displays, but it's responsive and includes Apple CarPlay - something many buyers still consider essential. I particularly appreciated the dual-zone climate control and those fantastic cooled seats that made Manila's brutal afternoon heat almost enjoyable. The third-row seats fold completely flat, creating 1,688 liters of cargo space that I tested by helping a friend move some furniture last weekend.
Safety features were where I had some concerns initially. The 2019 GLS comes with seven airbags, stability control, and hill start assist, but it misses out on some of the more advanced driver assists that have become common in newer vehicles. However, after driving it extensively through various conditions, I realized that the fundamental safety systems are robust enough for most scenarios. The build quality feels substantial - doors close with that satisfying thud that suggests proper engineering rather than cost-cutting.
From a maintenance perspective, I spoke with three different Mitsubishi service centers and independent mechanics about long-term ownership costs. The consensus seems to be that maintenance runs about 15-20% cheaper than comparable Toyota Fortuner or Ford Everest models. One mechanic showed me service records indicating that typical annual maintenance for a 2019 Montero Sport averages around ₱25,000-₱35,000 for normal use, though this can vary significantly based on driving conditions.
The used market pricing reveals some interesting opportunities. Well-maintained 2019 GLS models typically sell between ₱1.1-₱1.3 million, representing approximately 40% depreciation from their original ₱1.9 million price tag. Compared to a new model costing over ₱2.1 million, the value proposition becomes compelling if you're willing to accept slightly older technology. I've noticed that prices vary considerably based on color too - white models seem to command about ₱30,000-₱50,000 premiums in the secondary market.
Where this vehicle truly shines is in its mechanical reliability and that incredible balance between comfort and capability. The ride quality manages to be plush enough for daily commuting while maintaining excellent composure off-road. During my testing, I deliberately sought out some of the worst roads I could find, and the Montero absorbed bumps and imperfections with grace that many modern SUVs still struggle to match. The steering provides decent feedback too - something that's becoming increasingly rare in today's electrically-assisted systems.
There are compromises, of course. The infotainment system lacks the crisp resolution of newer units, and some of the interior materials show their age when compared directly with 2023 models. The fuel economy, while respectable, falls short of the latest diesel engines by about 1-2 km/L based on my testing. And then there's the design - while I personally find the bold, angular styling still attractive, I understand it might not appeal to everyone, particularly those preferring the more evolutionary designs of competitors.
After spending considerable time with this vehicle and comparing it against newer alternatives, I've reached a conclusion that might surprise some readers. The 2019 Montero Sport GLS represents one of the smartest buys in the used SUV market today, particularly for buyers who prioritize mechanical integrity over having the latest tech features. It's like finding a seasoned athlete who may not have the flashiest new training methods but delivers consistent performance through proven techniques. The depreciation hit has already been absorbed by the first owner, yet the vehicle remains modern enough to feel contemporary for years to come. For my money, unless you absolutely need the latest driver assistance features or must have the newest design, this proven workhorse makes a compelling case for itself that's hard to ignore.