The Mitsubishi Montero Sport III 2.4 MIVEC (181 Hp), produced between 2015 and 2019, represents the third generation of Mitsubishi’s popular mid-size SUV. While not widely sold in the United States, the Montero Sport (known as the Pajero Sport in many international markets) is a significant vehicle in regions like Southeast Asia, Australia, and Latin America, competing with models like the Toyota Fortuner and Isuzu MU-X. This generation marked a substantial upgrade in terms of refinement, technology, and overall capability, building upon the rugged reputation of its predecessors. It’s designed to offer a blend of off-road prowess and family-friendly comfort, catering to buyers seeking a versatile SUV.
Mitsubishi Montero Sport III: An Overview
The Montero Sport III was engineered as a body-on-frame SUV, prioritizing durability and off-road performance. It offered seating for up to seven passengers, making it a practical choice for larger families. The 2.4 MIVEC variant, equipped with a turbocharged diesel engine, was a key offering in many markets, balancing fuel efficiency with adequate power for both on-road driving and challenging terrain. This model aimed to provide a more modern and comfortable experience compared to earlier Montero Sport generations, while retaining the core attributes that made it a popular choice for adventure-seeking drivers.
Engine & Performance
The heart of the Montero Sport III 2.4 MIVEC is a 2.4-liter inline-four cylinder diesel engine, designated the 4N15. This engine produces 181 horsepower at 3,500 rpm and a substantial 430 Nm (317.15 lb.-ft.) of torque at 2,500 rpm. The engine features Mitsubishi’s MIVEC (Mitsubishi Innovative Valve timing and lift Electronic Control) technology, optimizing valve timing for improved performance and fuel efficiency. A turbocharger with an intercooler further enhances power output. The engine’s longitudinal front-engine layout contributes to a balanced weight distribution. Power is delivered to the rear wheels through a six-speed manual transmission in this configuration. The weight-to-power ratio stands at 10.6 kg/Hp, while the weight-to-torque ratio is 4.4 kg/Nm, indicating a good balance between weight and performance. The vehicle achieves a maximum speed of 180 km/h (111.85 mph). The engine’s 15.5:1 compression ratio is typical for a diesel engine, contributing to its efficiency.
Design & Features
The Montero Sport III boasts a robust and contemporary SUV design. Its body-on-frame construction provides a solid foundation for off-road capability. The vehicle is a five-door SUV with seven seats, offering ample space for passengers and cargo. Key exterior features include a prominent front grille, sculpted headlights, and a muscular profile. Inside, the Montero Sport III offers a functional and comfortable cabin. Features typically include air conditioning, power windows, and a basic audio system. Safety features, while varying by market, generally include ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) as standard. The interior design prioritizes practicality and durability, with materials chosen to withstand the rigors of off-road use. The vehicle’s dimensions – 4785 mm (188.39 in) in length, 1815 mm (71.46 in) in width, and 1805 mm (71.06 in) in height – provide a spacious interior without being overly cumbersome. Ground clearance of 218 mm (8.58 in) enhances its off-road capability, while approach, departure, and ramp-over angles of 30°, 24.2°, and 23.1° respectively, further contribute to its ability to tackle challenging terrain.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mitsubishi |
| Model | Montero Sport |
| Generation | Montero Sport III |
| Type (Engine) | 2.4 MIVEC (181 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2015 |
| End of production | 2019 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Off-road vehicle, SUV |
| Seats | 7 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Maximum speed | 180 km/h (111.85 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 2 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 10.6 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.4 kg/Nm |
| Power | 181 Hp @ 3500 rpm |
| Torque | 430 Nm @ 2500 rpm (317.15 lb.-ft. @ 2500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | 4N15 |
| Engine displacement | 2442 cm3 (149.02 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 86 mm (3.39 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 105.1 mm (4.14 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 15.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 8.4 l (8.88 US qt | 7.39 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 7.7 l (8.14 US qt | 6.78 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1910 kg (4210.83 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2710 kg (5974.53 lbs.) |
| Max load | 800 kg (1763.7 lbs.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 68 l (17.96 US gal | 14.96 UK gal) |
| Length | 4785 mm (188.39 in.) |
| Width | 1815 mm (71.46 in.) |
| Height | 1805 mm (71.06 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2800 mm (110.24 in.) |
| Front track | 1520 mm (59.84 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1515 mm (59.65 in.) |
| Front overhang | 880 mm (34.65 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 1105 mm (43.5 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 218 mm (8.58 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 11.2 m (36.75 ft.) |
| Drive wheel | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Coil spring, Double wishbone, Transverse stabilizer |
| Rear suspension | Rigid axle suspension, Transverse stabilizer, Coil spring |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs, 320 mm |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 265/60 R18 |
| Wheel rims size | 7.5J x 18 |
The Mitsubishi Montero Sport III 2.4 MIVEC offered a compelling package for buyers seeking a capable and versatile SUV. Its robust construction, efficient diesel engine, and spacious interior made it a popular choice in its target markets, solidifying Mitsubishi’s reputation for building durable and reliable off-road vehicles.
