The Mitsubishi Montero Sport III, produced from 2015 to 2019, represents the third generation of Mitsubishi’s popular mid-size SUV. While not officially sold in the United States under the Montero Sport name, it is closely related to the Pajero Sport sold in many international markets, including Australia, Asia, and parts of Latin America. This vehicle aimed to provide a robust, family-friendly SUV with off-road capability, competing with models like the Toyota Fortuner and Isuzu MU-X in its primary markets. The Montero Sport III offered a blend of practicality, comfort, and a capable powertrain, making it a popular choice for those needing a versatile vehicle for both daily commutes and adventurous excursions.
Mitsubishi Montero Sport III: An Overview
The Montero Sport III marked a significant evolution for the model, featuring a more modern design, improved interior appointments, and enhanced mechanical components compared to its predecessors. It was positioned as a seven-seater SUV, catering to families and those requiring additional passenger capacity. The vehicle’s design language incorporated Mitsubishi’s Dynamic Shield front design concept, giving it a distinctive and aggressive appearance. The focus was on creating a vehicle that could handle diverse terrains while providing a comfortable and safe experience for its occupants.
Engine & Performance
The Montero Sport III 3.0 MIVEC V6 is powered by Mitsubishi’s 6B31 engine, a 3.0-liter naturally aspirated V6 gasoline engine. This engine produces a maximum power output of 209 horsepower at 6000 rpm and 279 Nm (205.78 lb.-ft.) of torque at 4000 rpm. The engine features Mitsubishi’s MIVEC (Mitsubishi Innovative Valve timing and lift Electronic Control) technology, which optimizes valve timing for improved performance and fuel efficiency. Power is delivered to the rear wheels via an eight-speed automatic transmission. The powertrain provides adequate performance for both on-road driving and moderate off-road conditions. The weight-to-power ratio of 9 kg/Hp and a weight-to-torque ratio of 6.7 kg/Nm contribute to a responsive driving experience. The vehicle achieves a maximum speed of 182 km/h (113.09 mph).
Design & Features
The Montero Sport III boasts a traditional SUV body style with a five-door configuration and seating for up to seven passengers. Its exterior design is characterized by bold lines, a prominent grille, and sculpted body panels. The interior is designed with practicality and comfort in mind, offering ample space for passengers and cargo. Key features include a comfortable seating arrangement, a user-friendly infotainment system, and various convenience features such as air conditioning, power windows, and power door locks. Safety features, crucial for a family-oriented vehicle, include ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) and a robust chassis designed to withstand challenging conditions. 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 making the vehicle unwieldy. 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 navigate challenging terrain.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mitsubishi |
| Model | Montero Sport |
| Generation | Montero Sport III |
| Type (Engine) | 3.0 MIVEC V6 (209 Hp) Automatic |
| 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 | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Maximum speed | 182 km/h (113.09 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 9 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.7 kg/Nm |
| Power | 209 Hp @ 6000 rpm |
| Torque | 279 Nm @ 4000 rpm (205.78 lb.-ft. @ 4000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | 6B31 |
| Engine displacement | 2998 cm3 (182.95 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 87.6 mm (3.45 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 82.9 mm (3.26 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 9.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | SOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.3 l (4.54 US qt | 3.78 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 11 l (11.62 US qt | 9.68 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1880 kg (4144.69 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2600 kg (5732.02 lbs.) |
| Max load | 720 kg (1587.33 lbs.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 70 l (18.49 US gal | 15.4 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.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 8 gears, automatic 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 |
In conclusion, the Mitsubishi Montero Sport III 3.0 MIVEC V6 Automatic offered a compelling package for those seeking a versatile and capable SUV. Its blend of performance, practicality, and off-road ability made it a popular choice in markets where it was available, and it continues to be a respected vehicle among SUV enthusiasts.
