Montero Sport 2019: 7 Essential Features Every Driver Should Know About

When I first slid behind the wheel of the 2019 Montero Sport, I was immediately struck by its commanding road presence. It’s a vehicle that doesn’t just get you from point A to B—it makes a statement while doing so. Over the past few years, I’ve had the chance to test numerous SUVs, but the Montero Sport has consistently stood out for its blend of rugged capability and modern refinement. Today, I want to walk you through what I consider the seven most essential features of this model, the ones that truly elevate the driving experience. Think of it like unlocking a special edition in a video game—where the base model is great, but the added features, much like a season pass that grants you DLC characters and exclusive cosmetics, transform it into something truly exceptional. That’s exactly how these features work in the Montero Sport; they’re not just extras, they’re game-changers.

Let’s start with the powertrain, because honestly, that’s where the magic begins. The 2019 Montero Sport comes with a 2.4-liter turbo-diesel engine that churns out 181 horsepower and 430 Nm of torque. Now, I’ve driven this on everything from city streets to muddy trails, and that torque figure isn’t just a number on paper—it’s what lets you overtake with confidence or crawl up a steep incline without breaking a sweat. Paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, shifts are smooth and intuitive, almost like the vehicle anticipates your next move. I remember one trip through the countryside where the roads were unpredictable, but the Montero’s transmission adapted seamlessly, making the drive feel effortless. It’s one of those features you might not notice until you’re in a tricky situation, and then you’re grateful it’s there.

Moving inside, the cabin is where the Montero Sport truly shines as a family-friendly SUV. The second-row seats offer a generous 250 mm of slide adjustment, which might sound like a minor detail, but trust me, it makes a world of difference on long journeys. I’ve fit three adults back there comfortably, with enough legroom to avoid those awkward “knees in the back of the seat” moments. And the third row? It’s not just an afterthought—it’s actually usable for shorter trips or kids, something I can’t say for many competitors. Combine that with the 1,500 kg towing capacity, and you’ve got a vehicle that’s as practical for hauling a trailer as it is for a weekend camping trip. I’ve personally used it to tow a small boat, and the stability was impressive, never feeling strained or unstable.

Now, let’s talk tech, because in today’s world, a vehicle’s infotainment system can make or break the experience. The Montero Sport’s 8-inch touchscreen is responsive and user-friendly, but what really caught my eye was the smartphone integration. With Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, it’s like having your favorite apps right at your fingertips—navigation, music, messages, all without fumbling with your phone. It reminds me of how a season pass in gaming bundles DLC characters and cosmetics into one neat package; here, the tech integrations bundle convenience and safety. I’ve found myself relying on it daily, especially for real-time traffic updates that have saved me from more than one jam. And with the six-speaker sound system, even mundane commutes feel like a private concert.

Safety is another area where the 2019 model excels, and I can’t stress this enough. Features like the Multi-Around Monitor system use four cameras to give you a 360-degree view, which is a lifesaver in tight parking spots or off-road scenarios. I’ve used it to navigate narrow forest trails where visibility was poor, and it felt like having an extra set of eyes. Then there’s the Forward Collision Mitigation system, which has alerted me a couple of times in heavy traffic—once even applying the brakes lightly when a car suddenly stopped ahead. It’s not just about avoiding accidents; it’s about peace of mind. In my opinion, these safety features are like those “other goodies” in a season pass—they might not be the main attraction, but they add immense value.

Off-road capability is where the Montero Sport truly separates itself from the crowd. With its Super Select 4WD-II system, you can switch between 2WD, 4WD, and 4WD with a locked center differential, depending on the terrain. I’ve taken this SUV through sand, mud, and rocky paths, and it handles each with a poise that rivals more expensive models. The ground clearance of 218.5 mm might not sound like much, but it’s enough to tackle most obstacles without scraping the undercarriage. On one particularly adventurous drive, I ascended a 30-degree slope with ease, thanks to the Hill Start Assist and descent control. It’s features like these that make the Montero Sport feel like a trusted partner, not just a vehicle.

Fuel efficiency is often a concern with SUVs, but here, the Montero Sport surprises. The official figures claim around 9.8 L/100 km combined, but in my real-world testing, I’ve averaged closer to 10.5 L/100 km—still respectable for a vehicle of this size. Over a 500 km road trip, that translates to roughly 52 liters of diesel, which at current prices, isn’t going to break the bank. I appreciate that Mitsubishi has balanced power with economy, making it a practical choice for daily commutes and long hauls alike. It’s one of those things you don’t think about until you’re at the pump, and then you’re glad the numbers are on your side.

Finally, the design and build quality round out the package. The 2019 Montero Sport sports a bold, dynamic look with LED headlights and a robust grille that gives it a premium feel. But beyond aesthetics, the build is solid—I’ve put over 20,000 km on one without any major issues, and the interior materials have held up well against spills, scratches, and the general wear and tear of family life. It’s this durability that, to me, makes it a long-term investment, much like how a season pass in gaming offers lasting value through continuous updates. In the end, the Montero Sport isn’t just about individual features; it’s how they come together to create a cohesive, reliable, and enjoyable driving experience. If you’re in the market for an SUV that balances capability with comfort, this one deserves a serious look.