2002 Mitsubishi Montero: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

Available suedelike upholstery and revised exterior trim keynote 2002 changes to the largest of Mitsubishi's three SUVs. Montero seats seven with a 3rd-row bench seat that removes or folds flush with the cargo floor. Unlike most full-size SUVs, Montero has unibody construction instead of a body-on-frame design. And it has a right-hinged cargo door instead of a liftgate or tailgate. It also does not offer a V8 engine, using instead a 200-hp V6. The base XLS model 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, plus Mitsubishi's ActiveTrac 4WD that can be left engaged on dry pavement. Both include low-range gearing. Standard are front side airbags, antilock 4-wheel disc brakes, and 16-inch wheels. The Limited comes with leather upholstery, heated power front seats, and sunroof. New XLS options include rear air conditioning, power front passenger seat, and a Touring Package with ultrasuede seat trim and a sunroof. The XLS also gains chrome grille accents, and the Limited's grille and trim are now color-keyed.

COMPETITION

Though this segment has cooled somewhat with the rise in fuel prices, it's still one of the hottest. Our Best Buys are the Chevrolet Tahoe and Suburban.

Recommended are the Ford Expedition and GMC Yukon. For a few more bucks you can get the Toyota Land Cruiser. Its high price is the only thing holding back this refined and drivable SUV. We love the size, comfort, and power of these big SUVs but wish they got a few more miles per gallon.