2001 Mitsubishi Montero: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

Mitsubishi redesigns its senior SUV for 2001, making it longer, lower, wider, and heavier and replacing body-on-frame construction with a unibody design. Montero gets first-time independent rear suspension and standard front side-airbags. A little-changed V6 powers two models. The XLS has a 4-speed automatic transmission and 4WD that must be disengaged on dry pavement. The uplevel Limited has a 5-speed automatic with manual shift gate and Mitsubishi's ActiveTrac 4WD that can be left engaged on dry pavement. Both include low-range gearing. Standard are ABS, 16-inch wheels, and seating for seven. The removable 3rd-row bench seat folds flush with the cargo floor. Limited has standard leather upholstery, heated power front seats, and power sunroof.

COMPETITION

Though this segment has cooled somewhat with the rise in fuel prices, it's still one of the hottest. Our Best Buys include the Chevrolet Tahoe, Ford Expedition, and GMC Yukon. We love the size, comfort, and power of these big SUVs. The GM models get the nod in overall ratings, but shop and compare both before you buy.

For a few more bucks you can get the Recommended Toyota Land Cruiser. Its high price is the only thing holding back this refined and drivable SUV.