2019 Mitsubishi Montero Sport III (facelift ) 2.4 Clean Diesel (181 Hp)

The Mitsubishi Montero Sport III, specifically the 2019 facelifted model with the 2.4 Clean Diesel engine, represents a significant iteration 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) has been a mainstay in Southeast Asia, Australia, Latin America, and parts of Europe, offering a robust and capable vehicle for families and off-road enthusiasts. This generation, introduced in 2015 and refreshed in 2019, aimed to blend practicality, comfort, and off-road prowess, competing with vehicles like the Toyota Fortuner and Isuzu MU-X in its primary markets. The “Clean Diesel” designation highlights Mitsubishi’s efforts to meet increasingly stringent emissions standards.

Mitsubishi Montero Sport III: A Detailed Overview

The Montero Sport III facelift brought subtle but important updates to the exterior styling, interior refinement, and safety features. It continued to build upon the foundation of a body-on-frame construction, prioritizing durability and off-road capability. The 2019 model year focused on enhancing the driving experience and modernizing the vehicle’s technology without sacrificing its core strengths. The vehicle is designed to accommodate up to seven passengers, making it a practical choice for larger families or groups.

Engine & Performance

At the heart of the 2019 Mitsubishi Montero Sport III is the 4N15 2.4-liter inline-four cylinder Clean Diesel engine. This powerplant produces 181 horsepower at 3,500 rpm and 430 Newton-meters (317.15 lb.-ft.) of torque at 2,500 rpm. The engine utilizes a turbocharger with an intercooler and a diesel commonrail fuel injection system to optimize performance and fuel efficiency. The engine’s longitudinal front-engine layout contributes to a balanced weight distribution. The power-to-weight ratio stands at 10.6 kg/Hp, or 94.8 Hp/tonne, while the torque-to-weight ratio is 4.4 kg/Nm, or 225.1 Nm/tonne. This configuration provides a good balance between on-road drivability and off-road traction. The engine is paired with a 6-speed manual transmission, sending power to the rear wheels. This rear-wheel-drive configuration is standard, though some markets offered four-wheel-drive variants for enhanced off-road capability.

Design & Features

The Montero Sport III is a classic SUV in its body-on-frame construction, offering a robust and durable platform. The 2019 facelift included revised front and rear styling, with a more aggressive front grille and updated headlight designs. The interior received attention with improved materials and a more modern dashboard layout. The vehicle features seating for seven passengers across three rows, with the rear rows offering flexibility for cargo space. Key features include ventilated disc brakes on the front and disc brakes on the rear, complemented by an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) for enhanced safety. The steering system utilizes a rack and pinion setup for precise handling. The vehicle’s dimensions – 4,785 mm (188.39 in) in length, 1,815 mm (71.46 in) in width, and 1,805 mm (71.06 in) in height – position it squarely within the mid-size SUV segment. Ground clearance is a substantial 218 mm (8.58 in), aiding in off-road navigation. Approach, departure, and ramp-over angles are 30°, 24.2°, and 23° respectively, further enhancing its off-road credentials. A wading depth of 700 mm (27.56 in) allows it to tackle flooded terrain.

Technical Specifications

The Mitsubishi Montero Sport III (2019 facelift) remains a compelling option for those seeking a capable and practical SUV, particularly in markets where it is officially sold. Its blend of diesel power, robust construction, and seven-passenger capacity make it a versatile vehicle for both on-road and off-road adventures.