2001 Mitsubishi Montero 4WD Limited

Despite several tweaks to improve its torque characteristics and a 5-speed Sportronic autoshifter, Mitsubishi's familiar 3.5-liter DOHC V-6 still needed a lengthy 11.2 seconds to get our Montero Limited from rest to 60 mph.

Underhood, the Montero relies on Mitsu's familiar 3.5-liter SOHC V-6. Still rated at 200 horsepower, re-profiled cams and freer-flowing manifolding helps bump its torque seven lb.-ft. to 235. That extra twist also peaks 500 rpm lower in the rev band. Although a decent match with either the basic 4-speed automatic transmission used in the XLS or the new 5-speed "Sportronic" shiftable autotrans that comes standard in the Limited, don't plan on too many quick getaways. The Montero's curb weight has risen by 111 pounds, and even with an extra cog, our tester needed 11.2 seconds to hit 60 mph from rest and 17.9 ticks to roll through the quarter mile at 76.0 mph. Although the novelty of shifting for yourself wears off rather quickly, the Sportronic's gear-holding capability does come in handy when you're towing (up to a 5,000-pound trailer) or driving in slippery conditions.


Stopping power is an entirely different matter. The Montero is fitted with a big vented disc at each corner, supplemented by a new multi-mode ABS system. This unique package operates conventionally on pavement, but cycles more slowly when the vehicle is on gravel or snow—conditions where minor lockup can actually help shorten stopping distances. These potent binders also benefit from electronic brake-force-distribution circuitry and a new electro-hydraulic power assist (replacing the large vacuum diaphragm behind the master cylinder) that ensure linear response and good pedal feel. More importantly, they stopped our 4,675-pound tester from 60 mph in just 127 feet.

Leather upholstery and wood accent trim are standard issue in the upline Montero Limited. Driver's seat even comes with a power-activated adjustable lumbar support.

Four-wheel-drive comes in two flavors on the Montero, both with dual-range transfer cases and limited-slip differentials. Unlike the XLS's part-time system, the Limited ships with Mitsu's Active Trac, which allows the driver to choose between rear drive, full-time all-wheel-drive, or high- and low-range 4WD with locked center differential. Hard-core off-roaders may bemoan the fact that the new shifter operates the transfer case electronically, removing the positive feel and quick action of the old manual system. But given the primary rationale behind the Montero's revamp, we don't suspect many others will find this as a deal-breaker.


Along with the additional room, the new Montero's passenger compartment brings considerably more luxury. Materials have a higher-quality appearance and interior noise levels are noticeably lower. Even in XLS trim, the Montero is an upscale player. Its $31,397 price of entry brings air conditioning, AM/FM/CD sound system, keyless remote entry, dual front and front-side airbags, anti-theft system, tilt steering column, a trio of 12V power points, full-size spare tire, removable tool kit, luggage rack and a full array of power assists. At $36,197, the Limited adds leather upholstery and real wood accent trim, heated front seats (power-adjustable with lumbar support on the driver's side), heated mirrors, sunroof, trip computer and a premium Infinity sound system. Fully automatic climate control with separate rear heat and air are the sole options. Both Montero models offer seating for seven and a third-row bench that folds flat into the floor to add even more utility.

Rolling on in the tire tracks of its predecessor, the new Montero gave Mitsubishi its 6th overall victory in this year's running of the grueling 21-day Paris-Dakar rally.

In a field increasingly populated with high-quality competitors, Mitsubishi has done a great job of bringing the senior member of its SUV family into full 21st century spec. Still wondering whether it really managed to add this much refinement to the mix without fundamentally compromising the Montero's rough and ready nature? Then ponder this: A competition-prepped version of the new Montero (aka Pajero elsewhere in the world) rumbled to yet another overall victory in the 2001 Paris-Dakar event. Sometimes, the more things change, the more they remain the same ... (www.mitsubishicars.com)