Mitsubishi Montero Wagon: A Fascinating Evolution
Origins
The Mitsubishi Montero first appeared in Costa Rica with the 1985 – 1991 model. The Montero Wagon (aka – “cachetona” – affectionately) and the newer Sport version have always been considered a class act and are highly regarded by Ticos.
They tend to have lots of options befitting a higher end SUV. The early models are an excellent choice for those who want a good SUV at the lowest possible budget. In 1992 the design was upgraded, Mitsubishi added body side moldings and improvements to the suspension and interior.
Because of this styling prices are higher than earlier models, which can happen quite often in Costa Rica, so you want to be aware of that. For example, if you want a 1992 model, you will find prices similar all the way through the 1998 model, so you can always get a better year for a little more money.
2008 Mitsubishi Montero Wagon
The 2008 to 2018 version was along the lines of “if it ain’t broke …” While Mitsubishi redesigned their trucks, sedans and lower category SUVs multiple times in these year models, the Wagon keeps the same design.
There are small differences to options and cosmetic tweaks, but nothing major. Sales slowed over time and so this makes the Montero Wagon in these year models a good value nowadays in the used car market.
Parts and Repairs
The Mitsubishi Montero has been a popular vehicle in Costa Rica for a long time and mechanics know how to work on any model year. Mitsubishi parts are readily available throughout the country, they are expensive, but very good quality. Hard to find parts can be obtained at the dealer.
1999 - 2000
In 1999 the body style and model were changed again, so they are significantly more expensive than a 1998 model. The 1999 – 2000 models are “tweeners”. They have more features, more power and a better suspension than the earlier models, but the 2001 and newer models have a distinctive new “cheeky” look and major improvements to the options package, in addition to more power in the drive train and improved handling.
2001 Montero Wagon
The 2001 to 2007 version was a big cosmetic and design change. The interior is larger, the 3 row seating is better and also folds down to the rear cargo area. The drive train is different and becomes a unibody chassis construction, as opposed to the typical body on frame type.
Mitsubishi Montero Wagon Popular Features Options
The Mitsubishi Montero is a large, luxury SUV in Costa Rica. Click icon for full feature description:
Automatic Transmission
If you are looking for an SUV with an automatic transmission, they are more common in the Montero than in other SUVs. 2001 and newer limited edition models offer the “sportronic” transmission, which allows you to choose between automatic transmission shifting, or manual shifting. This is very important in off-road situations, and also in mountain driving, where automatic transmissions are indecisive or inaccurate because they can’t recognize upcoming road conditions.
7 Passenger Capacity
The Montero offers seating for seven passengers. The spare tire is mounted on the cargo door, which allows space for the 3rd row seat to disappear into the chassis. (2001 and newer models).
Bells and Whistles
The Mitsubishi Montero is a good choice for those who like “bells and whistles”, particularly the limited edition. Monteros are commonly found with leather seats, electric windows, electric mirrors, digital temperature displays, and luxury sound systems. Outside you will normally get running boards, sturdy luggage racks and alloy rims. If you commonly carry 5 adults and luggage or gear, then you will find the Montero to be roomy and capable.
Gasoline and Diesel Options
The Montero Wagon comes with a v6 3000 cc or 3500cc engine. This has plenty of power for most off-road situations and also for getting up and down the mountains in Costa Rica. There are 3 sizes of diesel engine in the Montero Wagon, 2.5 liter (1990s models), 2.8 liter and 3.2 liter Di-D. The 2.5 liter and 2.8 liter engines are TDI (turbo diesel intercooler), whereas the 3.2 liter engine is common rail direct injection, branded Di-D in the Mitsubishi parlance.
Off-road Capability
Mitsubishi is a big player in the off-road rallies (Dakar) and their SUVs have better off-road capabilities than many other manufacturers. The Montero’s all feature full 4 x 4, with both high and low options for getting in and out of tricky situations you can encounter in rural areas. The limited versions have a 4LLC setting, this is a limited slip differential, so the wheels will not spin out of control if you are in a slippery patch, or one wheel is in a depression.
Mitsubishi Montero Wagon - Verdict
SUV | 4x4 | Premium Quality | High Value
Pros: The v6 in the Mitsubishi Montero is powerful enough to handle the automatic transmission, so it is a very good choice if you prefer the automatic. The luxury trim and features are also a good benefit in the Montero. The 7 passenger capacity is handy to have when you get company visiting. The roomy cargo area is great for trips to the beach, hardware store and Pricesmart. The Mitsubishi off-road tradition means that the chassis and suspension are superior to many makes as far as clearance, ride and capability. You will be able to get in and out of any popular tourist attraction in Costa Rica, and the occasional situation you may encounter off road.
Cons: The v6 is not as economical as a 4 cylinder, you may consider the diesel version instead. The 3rd row seating is great for short trips, not so great on long ones. Parts are more expensive than Korean or most other Japanese brands, albeit good quality. The 4×4 capability is awesome, but the Wagon sits lower than others and the unibody chassis makes improvements to the suspension trickier than traditional SUVs in this category.