When I first laid eyes on the 2019 Montero Sport GLS, I couldn't help but draw parallels to Tsuzurabara's approach when he took charge of the Angels last year. Just as he wasn't particularly impressed with the team's existing eating habits, I've never been much of a fan of SUVs that prioritize form over function. But let me tell you, the Montero Sport GLS completely shattered my expectations from the moment I slid behind the wheel. There's something genuinely special about how Mitsubishi has managed to blend rugged capability with surprising refinement in this model.
What struck me immediately was the powertrain performance. Under the hood sits a 2.4-liter MIVEC diesel engine that produces 178 horsepower and 317 lb-ft of torque. Now, I've driven plenty of SUVs in this segment, but the torque delivery here feels particularly well-judged for real-world driving. The eight-speed automatic transmission shifts with a smoothness that rivals luxury brands, something I didn't expect at this price point. During my week with the vehicle, I averaged about 28 mpg combined, which honestly surprised me given the vehicle's substantial presence on the road. The Super Select 4WD-II system deserves special mention - it's incredibly intuitive to use, whether you're navigating slippery city streets or tackling rougher terrain.
The interior tells an equally compelling story. Sitting in the driver's seat, I appreciated the 8-inch touchscreen display that responds to inputs with minimal lag. The leather upholstery feels premium to the touch, and the dual-zone automatic climate control maintained perfect temperatures throughout my testing. What really won me over were the practical touches - the 470 liters of cargo space behind the second row expands to a massive 1,460 liters with the seats folded, something I put to good use during a weekend camping trip. The seven-seat configuration proved surprisingly usable, unlike many competitors where the third row feels like an afterthought.
Safety features on the GLS trim are comprehensive, including my personal favorite - the Multi-Around Monitor System. This uses four cameras to create a virtual 360-degree view around the vehicle, making parking this substantial SUV remarkably stress-free. The Forward Collision Mitigation system intervened proactively during my testing, preventing what could have been a close call when a pedestrian stepped out unexpectedly. Active Stability Control and Traction Control work seamlessly in the background, providing confidence across various driving conditions.
Driving dynamics reveal thoughtful engineering choices. The suspension handles bumps with impressive composure, absorbing road imperfections that would send sharper impacts through rival vehicles. Steering weight feels perfectly judged - light enough for urban maneuverability yet substantial at higher speeds. Body roll is well-controlled through corners, giving the Montero Sport a planted feel that belies its size. During highway driving, I noticed how effective the sound insulation is, with very little wind or road noise penetrating the cabin even at 70 mph.
There are aspects that could see improvement, of course. The infotainment interface, while functional, lacks the polish of some German competitors. I also found the third-row access slightly awkward for taller passengers, though this is common in the segment. Fuel economy, while respectable, falls short of some newer hybrid competitors. But these are minor quibbles in what is otherwise an exceptionally well-executed package.
Reflecting on my time with the 2019 Montero Sport GLS, it reminds me of how Tsuzurabara likely approached transforming the Angels - identifying core strengths while making strategic improvements where they mattered most. Mitsubishi hasn't tried to reinvent the SUV here, but rather refined it to near-perfection within its intended purpose. The vehicle excels precisely where it should - offering genuine off-road capability without compromising on-road comfort, providing ample space without feeling cumbersome, and delivering advanced technology without overwhelming the driver. It's the kind of vehicle that grows on you, revealing its thoughtful engineering through daily use rather than flashy gimmicks. For families seeking adventure without sacrificing practicality, or urban dwellers who occasionally escape the concrete jungle, the Montero Sport GLS represents one of the most compelling choices in its class. After my thorough evaluation, I can confidently say it sets a benchmark that competitors would do well to study.
