The Mitsubishi Montero Sport III 2.5 DI-D Automatic, 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 Asia, Latin America, and Australia, offering a robust and capable platform for families and off-road enthusiasts. This generation marked a substantial upgrade over its predecessors, focusing on improved comfort, technology, and fuel efficiency while retaining the ruggedness expected of the Montero nameplate.
Mitsubishi Montero Sport III: A Global SUV
The Montero Sport III was designed to compete with other popular mid-size SUVs like the Toyota Fortuner, Isuzu MU-X, and Ford Everest. It served as a more affordable and practical alternative to larger, more luxurious SUVs. Its key selling points included a spacious seven-seat cabin, a reliable diesel engine, and a capable four-wheel-drive system (though the specifications detailed here are for a rear-wheel-drive variant). The vehicle was built upon a ladder-frame chassis, providing durability and off-road prowess. The 2.5 DI-D engine variant, detailed here, was a common configuration in many markets, offering a balance of power and fuel economy.
Engine & Performance
The heart of the Montero Sport III 2.5 DI-D is a 2.5-liter inline-four cylinder diesel engine, designated the 4D56. This engine produces 136 horsepower at 4,000 rpm and 324 Nm (238.97 lb.-ft.) of torque at 2,000 rpm. The engine utilizes a diesel commonrail fuel injection system and a turbocharger with an intercooler to enhance performance and efficiency. The longitudinal engine layout contributes to a balanced weight distribution. Power is delivered to the rear wheels via a five-speed automatic transmission. The vehicle’s weight-to-power ratio of 14 kg/Hp and weight-to-torque ratio of 5.9 kg/Nm indicate a focus on usable torque for everyday driving and towing, rather than outright acceleration. The engine’s 17:1 compression ratio is typical for a diesel engine, contributing to its efficiency. The engine’s power per liter is rated at 54.9 Hp/l.
Design & Features
The Montero Sport III boasts a traditional SUV body style, characterized by its boxy shape and high ground clearance. It’s a five-door vehicle with seating for up to seven passengers, making it a practical choice for larger families. The exterior design features a prominent front grille, large headlights, and robust body cladding. The interior prioritizes practicality and durability, with hard-wearing materials and a functional layout. Key features included air conditioning, power windows, and a basic audio system. Safety features, while not as advanced as those found in modern vehicles, typically included ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) and airbags. 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 ample interior space. The 218 mm (8.58 in) of ground clearance, combined with approach, departure, and ramp-over angles of 30°, 24.6°, and 23.1° respectively, highlight its off-road capabilities. The 68-liter (17.96 US gal) fuel tank provides a reasonable driving range.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mitsubishi |
| Model | Montero Sport |
| Generation | Montero Sport III |
| Type (Engine) | 2.5 DI-D (136 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 | Diesel |
| Maximum speed | 166 km/h (103.15 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 2 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 14 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.9 kg/Nm |
| Power | 136 Hp @ 4000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 54.9 Hp/l |
| Torque | 324 Nm @ 2000 rpm (238.97 lb.-ft. @ 2000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | 4D56 |
| Engine displacement | 2477 cm3 (151.16 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 91.1 mm (3.59 in) |
| Piston Stroke | 95 mm (3.74 in) |
| Compression ratio | 17:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 6.5 l (6.87 US qt | 5.72 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 8.2 l (8.66 US qt | 7.21 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1910 kg (4210.83 lbs) |
| Max. weight | 2600 kg (5732.02 lbs) |
| Max load | 690 kg (1521.19 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) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the rear wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 5 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Coil spring, Double wishbone, Transverse stabilizer |
| Rear suspension | Rigid axle suspension, Transverse stabilizer, Coil spring |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs, 294 mm |
| Rear brakes | Drum |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 265/70 R16 |
| Wheel rims size | 7J x 16 |
The Mitsubishi Montero Sport III 2.5 DI-D Automatic, while not a high-performance vehicle, offered a compelling package of practicality, reliability, and off-road capability. Its enduring popularity in international markets demonstrates its suitability for diverse driving conditions and family needs.
