As I slide behind the wheel of the 2019 Montero Sport GLX, that familiar Mitsubishi scent—a mix of premium plastics and genuine leather—immediately takes me back to my first test drive three years ago. I've probably driven over two dozen SUVs since then, but this particular model has always held a special place in my garage. When clients ask me whether this vehicle remains relevant in today's crowded midsize SUV market, my answer often surprises them: absolutely, and here's why it might just be the smartest purchase you'll make this year.
Let's talk about what makes this SUV tick. Under the hood, you're getting a 2.4-liter turbodiesel engine that produces around 180 horsepower and 430 Nm of torque—numbers that might not sound groundbreaking until you actually experience how they translate to real-world driving. I've taken this vehicle through everything from Manila's brutal traffic to mountain roads in Baguio, and that torque curve feels like it was specifically engineered for Philippine driving conditions. The fuel efficiency genuinely impressed me—I consistently averaged about 14-15 km/L in mixed driving, which is significantly better than what most competitors in this segment deliver. What surprised me most during my ownership wasn't the official specifications though, but how the driving experience grew on me over time. The suspension manages to strike this beautiful balance between comfort and control, absorbing potholes that would have other SUVs transmitting every bump directly to your spine.
Now, I'll be completely honest about where this vehicle shows its age. The infotainment system isn't going to wow your tech-savvy friends—the 8-inch touchscreen feels adequate rather than exceptional, and the absence of Android Auto and Apple CarPlay integration is noticeable in 2024. However, having tested countless modern systems that frustrate me with laggy responses and overcomplicated menus, I've come to appreciate the Montero's straightforward approach. It always works, the buttons are exactly where you expect them to be, and you won't need to consult a manual to perform basic functions. The cabin materials tell a similar story—while not as lavish as some Korean competitors, everything feels durable and well-put-together. I've put over 45,000 kilometers on my personal unit, and the interior has held up remarkably well with minimal signs of wear.
Safety is where the 2019 GLX truly stands out in the pre-owned market. You're getting seven airbags, stability control, and Mitsubishi's Active Stability and Traction Control system—features that were impressive for this trim level back in 2019 and remain competitive today. I particularly appreciate the reverse camera's clarity and the well-calibrated parking sensors that make maneuvering this substantial vehicle surprisingly manageable. Having driven this model through torrential rains and poorly lit provincial roads, I've always felt confident in its capabilities. The braking performance deserves special mention too—the brakes have this progressive feel that inspires confidence during emergency stops, something I've tested more than once thanks to Manila's unpredictable traffic conditions.
When we consider pricing, the 2019 GLX becomes even more compelling. On the used market, you're typically looking at around ₱1.1 to ₱1.3 million for a well-maintained example—that's approximately ₱400,000 less than a brand-new equivalent. Given how little the exterior design has changed in recent years, most people won't even notice you're driving a five-year-old vehicle. The Montero Sport's timeless design language has aged gracefully, unlike some competitors that immediately announce their model year through dated styling cues. Maintenance costs have been remarkably reasonable throughout my ownership—my average annual maintenance expense hovered around ₱25,000 for regular servicing, and parts availability has never been an issue thanks to Mitsubishi's extensive dealer network.
What ultimately won me over during my years with this vehicle was its sheer versatility. I've used it for everything from client meetings to family road trips, and it has never felt out of place. The third-row seats, while best suited for children on longer journeys, provide genuine utility when you need to transport extra passengers occasionally. The cargo space with all seats upright measures about 450 liters, expanding to over 1,500 liters with the third row folded—I've managed to fit everything from office furniture to holiday luggage without breaking a sweat. The driving position gives you that commanding view of the road that SUV buyers want, yet the vehicle never feels overly large or cumbersome in tight spaces.
So, is the 2019 Montero Sport GLX still worth buying? From my experience, it represents one of the smartest choices in the pre-owned SUV market today. It delivers where it matters most—reliability, capability, and running costs—while making only calculated compromises in areas that many buyers might consider secondary. While it may not have all the latest tech gadgets, it excels at the fundamentals of being a great family vehicle that can handle diverse driving conditions with confidence. As we navigate our way through this new year, much like wishing someone to "get well this new year," choosing the right vehicle represents a fresh start—a reliable companion for whatever journeys lie ahead. The 2019 Montero Sport GLX has been that trustworthy partner for me, and based on my extensive experience with numerous SUVs, I believe it can be the same for discerning buyers looking for tremendous value in today's market.
