2004 Mitsubishi Montero Sport: Road Test

Archived Review

2004 Mitsubishi Montero Sport 

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  • MSRP: $23,999 -$28,199
  • Invoice: $22,545 -$26,491

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Our road test for the 2004 Mitsubishi Montero Sport includes a full evaluation of the 2004 Mitsubishi Montero Sport from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2004 Mitsubishi Montero Sport, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2004 Mitsubishi Montero Sport help you decide if a 2004 Mitsubishi Montero Sport is right for you.

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ACCELERATION

LS 4WD XLS 2WD Class Average
5 5 4.8

Making the 3.5 V6 standard is a smart move; it provides fine acceleration. The 3.0 felt overtaxed.

FUEL ECONOMY

LS 4WD XLS 2WD Class Average
3 4 3.8

Test 2WD XLS averaged 16.8 mpg. We have not yet tested a 4WD version, but expect it to get 1-3 mpg less. Mitsubishi recommends regular-grade fuel.

RIDE QUALITY

LS 4WD XLS 2WD Class Average
3 3 4.5

More trucklike than most class rivals, with noticeable rough-road jiggle and hop.

STEERING/HANDLING/BRAKING

LS 4WD XLS 2WD Class Average
2 2 3.7

Vague steering and marked cornering lean don't instill confidence, and even mild crosswinds cause wander at highway speeds. Average brake feel and stopping performance.

QUIETNESS

LS 4WD XLS 2WD Class Average
3 3 4.4

Lots of wind rush at highway speeds, but road noise not bad except on coarse pavement. Engine noisy during acceleration.

CONTROLS

LS 4WD XLS 2WD Class Average
5 5 6.2

Logical and convenient aside from rather small audio controls. Standard tilt steering wheel doesn't lift high enough to give taller drivers a clear view of the gauges. Solid structure and good assembly quality, though some interior plastic panels feel a bit flimsy.

ROOM/COMFORT/DRIVER SEATING (FRONT)

LS 4WD XLS 2WD Class Average
5 5 6.4

Ample room, but seats too low to the floor for best comfort. Lofty step-up impedes entry/exit; available tubular side steps are too narrow to help.

ROOM/COMFORT (REAR)

LS 4WD XLS 2WD Class Average
4 4 5.6

Leg room generous even behind a tall front-seater. Adequate 6-footer head clearance. Very narrow floor passages hamper entry/exit.

CARGO ROOM

LS 4WD XLS 2WD Class Average
8 8 7.8

Load deck is rather high, but rear-seat folding is straightforward and there's plenty of space, though interior is too narrow for some cargo.

VALUE WITHIN CLASS

LS 4WD XLS 2WD Class Average
3 3 5.1

Montero Sport sacrifices too much room and comfort for a rough-and-tumble look and attitude. At least discounts are readily available.

Total Score

LS 4WD XLS 2WD Class Average
41 42 52.3

Total Score: 42

Scores for all Midsize Sport-utility Vehicles

Low Score
39
Average Score
52
High Score
66

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