2002 Mitsubishi Montero: Road Test
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2002 Mitsubishi Montero ▼
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- MSRP: $31,687 -$35,797
- Invoice: $29,390 -$33,203
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Our road test for the 2002 Mitsubishi Montero includes a full evaluation of the 2002 Mitsubishi Montero from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2002 Mitsubishi Montero, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2002 Mitsubishi Montero help you decide if a 2002 Mitsubishi Montero is right for you.
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ACCELERATION
| XLS/Limited | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 3 | 4.7 |
V6 is nearly overmatched by Montero's weight, for lethargic acceleration. Test Limited required liberal use of its manually shiftable Sportronic transmission to keep pace with fast-moving traffic--and this with only a light load aboard.
FUEL ECONOMY
| XLS/Limited | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 4 | 3.8 |
Test Limited averaged 17.1 mpg, not bad for a full-size SUV. Mitsubishi recommends regular-grade fuel.
RIDE QUALITY
| XLS/Limited | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 2 | 4 |
Curiously stiff. The big tires clearly transmit even small bumps. Suspension does limit wallow over moguls and allows only minor fore/aft pitching.
STEERING/HANDLING/BRAKING
| XLS/Limited | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 2 | 3.5 |
Steering precise if slightly overassisted, but Montero is not happy on curvy roads, with a slight tippy feel that will have many drivers slowing down.
QUIETNESS
| XLS/Limited | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 4 | 4 |
Engine loud during acceleration, decently quiet for cruising. Tire roar marked except on smooth asphalt, and gusty crosswinds cause lots of wind rush and impede straightline stability.
CONTROLS
| XLS/Limited | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 4 | 6 |
Mostly well-placed and intuitive, but the pictograph displays for "doors ajar" and 2WD/4WD operation are small and hard to see at times. Sturdy-feeling interior materials. Test examples had smooth control action and rattle-free assembly.
ROOM/COMFORT/DRIVER SEATING (FRONT)
| XLS/Limited | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 7 | 6.2 |
Comfortable, spacious seats. Driver positioning is high and commanding, but some long-legged drivers may want more rearward seat travel.
ROOM/COMFORT (REAR)
| XLS/Limited | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 7 | 5.1 |
Second-row bench carries three adults with little crowding. Narrow floor passages impede entry/exit, but relatively low step-in is appreciated. So is the convenient fold-away 3rd-row seat, though it's cramped except for preteens.
CARGO ROOM
| XLS/Limited | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 8 | 7.7 |
Some people won't like the right-hinged tail door, but load height is reasonably low, and folding the seats is easy. Interior storage plentiful, with two roomy dashboard gloveboxes, the usual map pockets, and a handy between-seats cubby.
VALUE WITHIN CLASS
| XLS/Limited | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 2 | 4.5 |
Three rows of seats, solid construction, and reasonable fuel economy for a full-size SUV are among Montero's attractions. But these pluses are overshadowed by mediocre acceleration; too much body lean in turns; and a harsh, trucky ride. Don't buy a Montero without getting a sizable discount.
Total Score
| XLS/Limited | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 43 | 49.5 |
Total Score: 43
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