When I first laid eyes on the 2019 Montero Sport GLX at the dealership, I immediately noticed how Mitsubishi had refined its design language while maintaining that rugged DNA we've come to expect. Having test-driven numerous SUVs in this segment, I can confidently say this model strikes an interesting balance between sophistication and capability. The front fascia with its dynamic shield grille gives it a commanding presence on the road, while the 18-inch alloy wheels fill out the wheel arches perfectly. What really impressed me during my week with the vehicle was how the design elements translated to real-world functionality - the generous ground clearance of 218.5mm proved invaluable when navigating some rough terrain during a weekend trip to the mountains.
Under the hood, the 2.4-liter MIVEC diesel engine delivers 181 horsepower and 430 Nm of torque, numbers that might not sound groundbreaking until you actually experience the powertrain in action. The eight-speed automatic transmission shifts with remarkable smoothness, though I did notice some hesitation when pushing hard during overtaking maneuvers. Where this engine truly shines is in its mid-range torque delivery - between 2,500 and 3,500 RPM, the Montero Sport GLX feels genuinely energetic. I recorded fuel economy figures of around 12.8 km/L in mixed driving conditions, which I consider quite respectable for a vehicle of this size and capability. The suspension setup deserves special mention too - the independent front and multi-link rear configuration absorbs bumps remarkably well while maintaining decent body control through corners.
Stepping inside the cabin reveals where Mitsubishi made some calculated compromises to hit the GLX's price point. The upholstery materials feel durable rather than luxurious, which honestly makes perfect sense for buyers who plan to use this vehicle for adventurous family outings. The 7-inch touchscreen interface isn't the most modern I've seen, but it's remarkably intuitive to use while driving. What surprised me most was the generous cabin space - during one particularly memorable trip, we managed to comfortably fit three adults in the second row and still had plenty of cargo space for camping gear. The driving position offers excellent visibility, though I would have preferred slightly more lateral support in the seats during longer journeys.
Safety features in the GLX trim include seven airbags, anti-lock brakes with electronic brake-force distribution, and stability control - a solid package that earned this model a five-star ASEAN NCAP rating. During my testing, the brakes provided consistent stopping power even during repeated hard braking from highway speeds. The rearview camera display is clear and greatly aids parking maneuvers, though I found myself wishing for parking sensors given the vehicle's substantial dimensions.
When comparing the Montero Sport GLX to competitors like the Ford Everest and Toyota Fortuner, it holds its own particularly well in value proposition. The pricing strategy positions it as an attractive option for buyers seeking premium features without the premium price tag. From my perspective, where it really outshines rivals is in daily driving comfort - the ride quality feels noticeably more compliant than the rather firm setup in the Fortuner. The steering weight is well-judged too, feeling substantial at highway speeds while remaining light enough for urban maneuvering.
Having spent considerable time with this vehicle in various conditions, I've developed a genuine appreciation for how Mitsubishi has engineered the Montero Sport GLX. It's not trying to be the most luxurious or the most technologically advanced SUV in its class, but it excels at being a thoroughly capable and dependable companion for both urban commuting and weekend adventures. The build quality feels robust in all the right places, from the solid-sounding door thunk to the well-damped switchgear. If I were in the market for a midsize SUV that prioritizes reliability and capability over flashy features, the Montero Sport GLX would definitely be high on my consideration list. It's the kind of vehicle that grows on you the more you drive it, revealing its thoughtful engineering in subtle ways during everyday use.