2016 Mitsubishi Montero Sport: PH Review, Specs & More

by Alex Braham 55 views

Hey guys! Are you considering snagging a used 2016 Mitsubishi Montero Sport here in the Philippines? Well, you've come to the right place! Let's dive deep into a comprehensive review of this popular SUV, covering everything from its performance and features to its reliability and potential issues. This guide is tailored specifically for the Philippine market, so you'll get insights relevant to our roads and driving conditions.

Overview of the 2016 Mitsubishi Montero Sport

The 2016 Mitsubishi Montero Sport marked a significant leap forward from its predecessor. It boasts a more modern design, improved performance, and a host of new features. It quickly became a favorite among Filipino families and adventure-seekers alike. Its robust build, spacious interior, and off-road capabilities made it a versatile choice for navigating both city streets and provincial terrains. When it comes to SUVs in the Philippines, the Montero Sport has consistently been a strong contender, known for its blend of practicality and style. Let's get into the nitty-gritty details to help you decide if the 2016 model is the right fit for you.

Exterior Design

The exterior design of the 2016 Montero Sport is a significant departure from the previous generation. It features Mitsubishi's "Dynamic Shield" front fascia, giving it a bold and aggressive look. The sleek headlights, chrome accents, and sculpted lines contribute to a more modern and sophisticated appearance. The higher-end trims come with LED daytime running lights and projector headlights, enhancing both aesthetics and visibility. Around the back, the vertical taillights are a distinctive design element, although they did receive mixed reactions initially. Overall, the 2016 Montero Sport presents a more refined and contemporary look compared to its predecessor. Filipinos generally appreciate vehicles that look both rugged and stylish, and this model year definitely delivers on that front. The ground clearance is also worth noting, as it's well-suited for tackling the occasional flooded street or rough road that we often encounter here in the Philippines. It is a design that made it stand out in the Philippine automotive market.

Interior and Features

Stepping inside the 2016 Montero Sport, you'll find a well-appointed interior with comfortable seating for up to seven passengers. The dashboard layout is clean and functional, with a user-friendly infotainment system. Depending on the trim level, you might find features like a touchscreen display, Bluetooth connectivity, and a rearview camera. Higher-end models also offer leather seats, a sunroof, and a more advanced infotainment system with navigation. The spacious cabin is a major plus, especially for families who need ample room for passengers and cargo. The air conditioning system is also a crucial feature for surviving the Philippine heat, and the Montero Sport's AC is generally quite effective. Considering the interior space and features available, the 2016 Montero Sport provides a comfortable and practical driving experience for both the driver and passengers.

Performance and Engine Options

Under the hood, the 2016 Montero Sport is typically powered by a 2.4-liter diesel engine. This engine provides a good balance of power and fuel efficiency, making it suitable for both city driving and long road trips. The engine is paired with either a 6-speed manual or an 8-speed automatic transmission. The automatic transmission is particularly smooth and responsive, enhancing the overall driving experience. The Montero Sport also offers different driving modes, including a 4x4 option for off-road adventures. Filipinos appreciate vehicles that can handle various road conditions, and the Montero Sport's performance capabilities make it a reliable choice for navigating the diverse landscapes of the Philippines. Whether you're cruising along the highway or tackling a muddy trail, the 2016 Montero Sport delivers adequate power and performance. The combination of a capable engine, smooth transmission, and available 4x4 system makes it a versatile SUV for the Philippine market.

Fuel Efficiency

Fuel efficiency is always a major concern for Filipino car owners, and the 2016 Montero Sport offers reasonable fuel economy for its class. The 2.4-liter diesel engine is designed to be relatively fuel-efficient, especially when compared to older, larger displacement engines. In real-world driving conditions, you can expect to get around 10-12 kilometers per liter in the city and 14-16 kilometers per liter on the highway. Of course, fuel consumption can vary depending on your driving style and traffic conditions. Regular maintenance, such as changing the oil and air filter, can also help to optimize fuel efficiency. While it's not the most fuel-efficient SUV on the market, the 2016 Montero Sport strikes a decent balance between power and fuel economy, making it a practical choice for everyday use in the Philippines. It's always a good idea to factor in fuel costs when considering a vehicle purchase, and the Montero Sport's fuel efficiency is certainly a point in its favor.

Reliability and Common Issues

When buying a used car, reliability is a top priority. The 2016 Montero Sport is generally considered to be a reliable vehicle, but like any car, it's not without its potential issues. Some owners have reported issues with the transmission, particularly with the 8-speed automatic. Other common problems include issues with the air conditioning system and the infotainment system. It's important to have a mechanic inspect the vehicle thoroughly before making a purchase, especially checking for any signs of transmission problems or other mechanical issues. Regular maintenance, such as changing the oil and servicing the transmission, can help to prevent many of these problems. Overall, the 2016 Montero Sport is a relatively reliable SUV, but it's always wise to do your due diligence and have it checked out by a professional before buying. Be sure to ask the previous owner about any known issues and review the service history to get a better understanding of the vehicle's condition.

Safety Features

Safety is paramount, and the 2016 Montero Sport comes equipped with a range of safety features to protect you and your passengers. Standard safety features include anti-lock brakes (ABS), electronic stability control (ESC), and airbags. Higher-end trims may also offer advanced safety features such as lane departure warning, blind-spot monitoring, and forward collision mitigation. These advanced safety features can help to prevent accidents and enhance overall safety. The Montero Sport's robust build and safety features provide peace of mind, especially when driving on Philippine roads, where traffic conditions can be unpredictable. When considering a used car, it's always a good idea to prioritize safety features, and the 2016 Montero Sport offers a decent level of protection for its occupants. Features like ABS and ESC are particularly important for maintaining control in emergency situations, while the airbags provide crucial protection in the event of a collision.

Pricing and Availability in the Philippines

The pricing of a used 2016 Montero Sport in the Philippines can vary depending on the trim level, mileage, and overall condition of the vehicle. You can typically find them listed on online marketplaces and used car dealerships. It's always a good idea to compare prices from different sources to get a sense of the market value. When negotiating the price, be sure to factor in any potential maintenance or repair costs. The availability of the 2016 Montero Sport is generally good, as it was a popular model when it was new. However, the specific trim level and color you're looking for may be harder to find. Be patient and persistent in your search, and you should be able to find a suitable 2016 Montero Sport that fits your budget and requirements. Keep an eye out for special deals and promotions, as these can sometimes help you save money on your purchase.

Pros and Cons

To summarize, here's a quick rundown of the pros and cons of the 2016 Mitsubishi Montero Sport:

Pros:

  • Stylish exterior design
  • Spacious and comfortable interior
  • Capable 2.4-liter diesel engine
  • Available 4x4 system
  • Decent fuel efficiency
  • Good safety features

Cons:

  • Potential transmission issues
  • Some reported problems with the AC and infotainment system
  • Vertical taillight design may not appeal to everyone

Alternatives to the 2016 Montero Sport

If you're not completely sold on the 2016 Montero Sport, there are several other SUVs in the Philippine market that you might want to consider. Some popular alternatives include:

  • Toyota Fortuner
  • Ford Everest
  • Isuzu MU-X
  • Chevrolet Trailblazer

These SUVs offer similar features and capabilities, so it's worth doing some research and comparing them to the Montero Sport before making a final decision.

Final Verdict

The 2016 Mitsubishi Montero Sport is a solid choice for Filipinos looking for a versatile and reliable SUV. It offers a good combination of style, performance, features, and fuel efficiency. While it's not without its potential issues, these can often be mitigated with proper maintenance and a thorough pre-purchase inspection. If you're in the market for a used SUV, the 2016 Montero Sport is definitely worth considering. Just be sure to do your homework and choose a well-maintained example. Happy car hunting, guys!