2005 Mitsubishi Montero: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

Mitsubishi's largest SUV exchanges standard 16-inch wheels for 17s in its only change for 2005. Montero comes in a single Limited trim level. It has a 215-hp 3.8-liter V6 and a 5-speed automatic transmission with manual shift gate. Standard is Mitsubishi's ActiveTrac 4WD, which can be left engaged on dry pavement and includes low-range gearing. Also included are antilock 4-wheel disc brakes, antiskid/traction control, tire-pressure monitor, and front side airbags; head-protecting curtain side airbags are unavailable. Montero has a right-hinged cargo door instead of a liftgate or tailgate. It seats seven via a 3rd-row bench that removes or folds flush with the cargo floor. Rear air conditioning and power sunroof are among the other standard features. Rear DVD entertainment is the only factory option.

COMPETITION

Consumer Guide® Automotive places each vehicle into one of 17 classes based on size, price, and market position. Larger than Compact SUVs, Midsize SUVs offer a mix of car- and truck-type construction, V6 and V8 power, and up to 8-passenger seating. This class also includes crossover vehicles.

Our Best Buys include the Honda Pilot and Toyota Highlander. Our Recommended picks are the Dodge Durango, Ford Explorer, Ford Freestyle, Nissan Murano, and Toyota 4Runner.