Mitsubishi Montero 2012 Review

The Mitsubishi Montero, known as the Pajero in some markets, is a full-size SUV that has been a staple in Mitsubishi’s lineup for decades, known for its ruggedness and off-road capability. By 2012, the Montero was in its fourth generation, which started in 2006. This generation brought modern updates to the model’s design, technology, and comfort, while maintaining the robustness for which it was known.

Exterior Design

The 2012 Mitsubishi Montero sports a bold and rugged exterior design, with a muscular stance that emphasizes its off-road heritage. It features a large front grille, high ground clearance, and a body-on-frame construction designed for durability. The ground clearance is substantial, enabling off-road adventures, standing at approximately 225mm, which is ideal for navigating challenging terrains.

Interior Design

Inside, the Montero offers a spacious and comfortable cabin, with three rows of seats accommodating up to seven passengers. The interior combines functionality with luxury, featuring quality materials and a well-organized dashboard. Boot space is generous, offering around 1,120 liters with the third row folded, making it suitable for large families or carrying significant cargo.

Performance

The 2012 Montero is powered by a 3.2-liter DI-D turbo diesel engine, delivering robust performance and substantial torque for both on-road and off-road conditions. It’s equipped with a 4WD system that includes a range of driving modes to tackle various terrains, coupled with either a five-speed automatic or manual transmission.

Ride Quality

Ride quality in the Montero is geared towards comfort and off-road capability. Its suspension is designed to absorb bumps and provide a smooth ride on rough surfaces, though it may feel less refined on the highway compared to more road-focused SUVs. The vehicle’s weight and height also contribute to noticeable body roll during tight cornering.

Safety & Technology

The 2012 Montero comes equipped with standard safety features such as ABS, airbags, and stability control. Higher trims add more advanced features like rear parking sensors and a multi-information display for the driver. The technology package, while not cutting-edge, includes essentials like climate control, a decent audio system, and navigation in higher trims.