2005 Mitsubishi Montero New Car Buyer's Guide

What's New for the 2005 Mitsubishi Montero?
Changes are few for the 2005 Mitsubishi Montero. There are two new exterior colors – Midnight Black and Carbon Gray – and a new standard-issue 17-inch aluminum wheel design.

Advantages of the 2005 Mitsubishi Montero:

• Excellent forward visibility
• Large sunroof
• Good off-road performance
• Seven-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty

Objections to the 2005 Mitsubishi Montero:

• Needs a V8, not a V6
• Third-row seat is for kids only
• Swing-out tailgate is impractical

Editor's Advice:
With its rugged exterior styling, handsomely furnished interior and impressive off-road performance, the Mitsubishi Montero should be more popular than it is, right? So why hasn't it reached critical mass? It's partly due to its 3.8-liter, V6 engine, which is significantly taxed by tugging around this heavy truck. Also, its 5,000-pound towing capacity isn't anything to write home about. In a vehicle segment littered with V8 power, its lethargic performance makes speed hungry Americans look elsewhere for their SUV fix. But if what you need is a spacious sport ute with luxurious digs, real rather than imagined off-road capabilities, third-row seating (for children only) and a large cargo area, don't overlook the Montero because great deals abound.