2001 Mitsubishi Montero Reviews

Reviews

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Mitsuibishi 2001 Montero Limited - full size SUV, comfortable, dependable!

The 2001 Mitsuibishi Montero Limited was a dramatic redo of the rugged SUV, updating from a box style to a head turning more muscular look ahead of its time. This model was actually brought out in 2000, and was sold in the USA until 2006. It was built in Japan. Reviews were exciting in the USA until roll-over tests severely dampened its sales. Since the SUV sits high, if you jerk the wheel sharply, it can roll. As an original owner, I know this and just make sure I don't overact and I make other drivers aware of this finding as well for their own safety and their passengers. Mitsuibishi definitely got a bad rap as the vehicle has otherwise been a real gem and very reliable with a comfortable, roomy leather interior and near trouble free mechanical history. This is accomplished by always changing the oil and filter every 3000 to 5000 miles. It's also seen several batteries and tires, and other regular maintenance as suggested in the owners manual, although performed outside the dealership for most service. My vehicle has relative low mileage of 110,000 for a twelve year old.

The owners manual and fuel lid says burn premium gas, but it works just fine on regular unleaded. I get about 15-17 mpg in mostly city driving. I leave it 4wd most of the time, great on wet roads.

The teenagers of my family definitely loved the looks over the old green Dodge minivan, and it has served our family well. Lots of room from a hidden third row seat which can pop up when needed (but reduces cargo area significantly). So you can haul kids and friends around town. When going out of town with 5 passengers lots of room for luggage, ice chest and gear. Now the kids are grown and married, but I still like the size for hauling things. The second row seats fold forward so there is plenty of room when needed. The swing open rear door is very convenient and makes it easy to load and unload groceries or cartons from the flat deck.

The limited model is outfitted with most conveniences (cruise, intermittent wipers, CD, alarm, info display with compass, time, distance to empty, power windows, locks and large side mirrors) as well as leather interior with deep front power and heated seats and wood with leather steering wheel. The inside trim still looks like new and better than some new SUVs.

Of course, as the SUV is older, the Infiniti sound system needed to be updated and the sub woofer had blown awhile ago. Easily accomplished by installing a Kenwood Excelon KDCX 896 new head unit featuring HD radio with 3 line info, Cd, Pandora, Blue tooth with hands free calling and name/number display and great call quality. Replaced blown sub with 8" Kicker in same space, and this SUV really rocks a hundred times better and it feels almost as good as a new car. Amazing how bringing your sound and technology up to date can refresh your driving experience. Wow!