2003 Mitsubishi Montero Sport: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

A slightly elevated roofline heads a short list of changes to this truck-based SUV, which dropped its top-line model and shuffled equipment at midyear. Montero Sport's ES and LS models use a 3.0-liter V6, the XLS a 3.5. Both V6s team with automatic transmission. All models offer rear-wheel drive or Mitsubishi's All4-Wheel Drive that can be left engaged on dry pavement; the 4WD includes low-range gearing. Antilock 4-wheel disc brakes are standard on 4WD versions. All but ES models come with 16-inch alloy wheels. Side airbags are unavailable. Leather upholstery is optional for XLS models. Mitsubishi says the newly raised roofline adds 0.8 inch to rear head room. Front head room is unchanged. Heated seats and mirrors, exclusive to the Limited model dropped at midyear, are no longer offered, and some of the XLS's standard equipment is now optional. In other news, ES models add standard roof rails, LS versions get platinum-color gauge faces, and the base CD audio system goes from 100- to 140-watts output.

COMPETITION

New to the class this year, Honda Pilot has taken the lead as a Best Buy. It offers ample cargo space, seating for eight passengers, all-wheel drive with a locking rear differential for added traction, and above-average refinement. Toyota Highlander is our other Best Buy, chosen for its on-road competence, convenience, and attractive pricing and design.

Our Recommended choices feature more-traditional SUVs: Ford Explorer, GMC Envoy, and Toyota 4Runner. For 2003, all now offer optional V8 engines and--with the exception of 4Runner--three rows of seats.