2003 Mitsubishi Montero

[Thai]

Hey all,

For 2003, Mitsubishi is refreshening the Montero's design (for better or worse) and putting in a bigger engine (3.8 L V6) with 5-8 percent more power. Is this power boost enough to power a 4700 lbs SUV???? I don't think so. Mitsubishi needs to increase the power more...maybe with some sort of VTEC technology (like the 2003 MDX). In addition, adding a vehicle stability system won't hurt either, considering that Consumer Reports has declared the Montero UNSAFE due to rollover potential.

Anyway, here are some info/pics of the 2003 Montero:

http://www.edmunds.com/news/autosho...56/page012.html

 

[Thai]

Hey all,

Here is some more info on the "refreshened" 2003 Montero. If you guys have high-speed internet, click on the video.

http://www.cars.com/carsapp/nationa...hi/montero.tmpl

 

[Thai]

Hey all,

This is from MOTORTREND:

"For 2003, Montero has been enhanced with several styling and mechanical refinements designed to add to the Montero's reputation for off-road capability, interior versatility, and stylish luxury. Externally, the 2003 Montero features a restyled grille, front fascia, and new headlights. The vehicle's new side cladding creates a cleaner, sleeker look and complements the integrated side steps. Mechanically, Montero receives a new 3.8-liter/215 horse V-6 engine and Mitsubishi Active Skid and Traction Control (M-ASTC) which enhance performance on and off-road. The Montero will range from a suggested base price of $32,487 to a fully loaded suggested price of $37,797. The seven-passenger vehicle comes equipped with a five-speed Sportronic/Active Trac transmission. Available equipment includes leather seating surfaces, power sunroof with tilt-feature, 315-watt Mitsubishi/Infinity CD audio system with seven speakers, and rear air conditioning and heating with mid-cabin controls."

Thanks.

 

[Thai]

Slightly improved exterior styling...but still kinda ugly

 

[Thai]

On the other hand....

Interior is first-rate!

Big sunroof!!

 

[Thai]

Hey all,

FourWheeler is testing the new 4Runner for it's SUV of the Year competition. Here is a pic during the test:

 

[Thai]

Mitsubishi Montero Specs

Engine Type: V6
Engine Block: Cast Iron
Cylinder Head: Aluminum Alloy
Displacement (liters): 3.8
Horsepower @ rpm (SAE net): 215@5500
Torque (lb-ft @ rpm): 248@3250
Redline (rpm): 6200
Bore and Stroke (mm): 95.0x90.0
Compression Ratio: 10.0:1
Valvetrain: SOHC 24-Valve

Electronically Controlled Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection

Active Trac

 

[Thai]

Various Pics

 

[Thai]

More pics

Updated (enlarged) 3.8L V6 engine:

Yup! TWO glove boxes!

 

[Thai]

Link:

CanadianDriver.com Review
Test Drive:
2003 Mitsubishi Montero Limited
by Greg Wilson

Competitor overview

The Montero is more agile and dynamic than vehicles like the Ford Explorer and Chevrolet Trailblazer, but not as powerful or refined as the Honda Pilot, and Toyota 4Runner. The Montero's distinctive styling certainly has presence, and it's an exciting vehicle compared to many of its more conservative mid-sized competitors. In fact, its design is getting on in years, but since Canadians haven't been exposed to the Montero until now, it looks refreshingly different.

Verdict

A more exciting, fun-to-drive SUV than many of its mid-sized competitors, the well-equipped Montero is roomy for five, if not seven, is extremely versatile on and off the pavement, but suffers from vibrations over certain surfaces.

Possibly the nicest interior in it's class:

 

[Thai]

Link:

Truck Trend Preview of '03 Montero

First Drive: 2003 Mitsubishi Montero
In the world of largish SUVs, the Montero goes its own way--confidently and independently.

Base price: $64,430
Vehicle layout:Front engine, 4WD, 4-door, 7-pass
Engine: 4.7L/235-hp V-8, DOHC, 4-valves/cyl
Braking, 60-0, ft: 126
0-60 mph, sec: 9.5
1/4 mile, sec @ mph: 17.1 @ 79.3
Slalom, mph: 55.7
On sale in U.S.: Currently

In the world of largish SUVs, the Montero goes its own way-confidently and independently. And for '03, the big Mitsubishi struts its stuff with more gusto, thanks to a larger, more powerful engine. Mitsubishi bored and stroked last year's 3.5-liter V-6 to 3.8-liter, slipped in a more aggressive cam profile, increased airflow into and out of the engine, and upped compression from 9.0:1 to 10.0:1. Horsepower rises 7.5 percent, from 200 to 215, and torque climbs from 235 to 248 lb-ft.

On the road, the larger V-6 feels richer at launch and has more staying power at the top end. Mid-range, part-throttle response is more satisfying too because peak torque is developed at lower engine speed. The good news is this V-8-like performance has no fuel penalty. In fact, the 3.8-liter's EPA estimated city/highway fuel economy actually increases this year from 14/19 to 15/19, although premium fuel is now recommended. A five-speed Sportronic sequential-shift automatic transmission gives the driver the option of manual control.

Active Trac 4WD, previously standard on the Limited, is now used on all Montero models. Its modes include rear drive and full-time AWD for operation in the paved world, as well as 4WD high or 4WD low with locked center diff for serious off-piste perambulation. Last year's mechanical limited-slip rear diff is replaced with an electronic nanny-M-ASTC Mitsubishi Active Skid and Traction Control. It's a traction and stability-control system that'll brake a spinning wheel to direct drive torque to the opposite-side wheel, both off- and on-road.

Also gaining new traction for '03 are the Montero's cleaner, more purposeful looks. Mitsubishi removed the ribbing from the sides and gave the headlamps, grille, and taillamps a more elegant look this year.