I remember the first time I saw the 2019 Montero Sport GLX in a dealership back in early 2019—it immediately struck me as one of those vehicles that manages to balance rugged capability with everyday practicality. Having spent considerable time behind the wheel of various SUVs over the years, I was particularly curious about how Mitsubishi had refined this model compared to its predecessors. The GLX trim sits at the more accessible end of the Montero Sport lineup, yet it doesn’t feel like a compromise. From its bold Dynamic Shield front grille to its elevated ground clearance, the exterior design communicates durability and readiness for adventure, something I’ve come to appreciate during long drives on both highways and rougher terrains.
Under the hood, the 2019 Montero Sport GLX is powered by a 2.4-liter MIVEC diesel engine that delivers 178 horsepower and 430 Nm of torque. Now, I’ve driven plenty of diesel SUVs, and what stands out here is the smooth power delivery—it’s not overly aggressive but has enough grunt to handle overtaking on highways or climbing steep inclines without breaking a sweat. During a test drive along a coastal route last year, I pushed it to around 120 km/h on open roads, and the engine felt responsive, with minimal turbo lag. Paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, shifts are seamless, whether you’re crawling through city traffic or cruising on the interstate. Fuel efficiency, in my experience, hovers around 12.5 km/l in mixed conditions, which is decent for a vehicle of this size, though I did notice a slight dip to about 10.8 km/l when towing a small trailer.
Stepping inside, the cabin of the GLX trim is surprisingly well-appointed for its price point. The seats are upholstered in durable fabric, and while they might not have the plushness of higher trims, I found them supportive during a six-hour drive—no backaches, which is a win in my book. The dashboard layout is straightforward, with a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system that supports Bluetooth and USB connectivity. One thing I particularly liked was the inclusion of Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, which made navigating unfamiliar routes a breeze. However, I do wish Mitsubishi had included more soft-touch materials; there’s a fair amount of hard plastic, which can make the interior feel a bit utilitarian. On the plus side, the GLX offers ample cargo space—roughly 1,200 liters with the rear seats folded—which came in handy when I helped a friend move apartments last spring.
When it comes to safety and driving aids, the 2019 Montero Sport GLX includes essentials like dual SRS airbags, ABS with EBD, and stability control. It’s not as packed with tech as some rivals, but in my view, the basics are well-covered. I recall a rainy evening drive where the vehicle’s Active Stability and Traction Control system kicked in seamlessly during a sudden lane change, keeping things composed. Off-road, the Super Select 4WD-II system is a gem; I took it on a mild trail in the Rockies, and the hill descent control made navigating downhill sections feel effortless. That said, I’d have loved to see blind-spot monitoring as standard—it’s an omission that feels noticeable in today’s market.
Driving the Montero Sport GLX daily, I’ve grown fond of its commanding driving position and how it soaks up bumps on poorly maintained roads. The suspension tuning leans toward comfort without sacrificing stability, though body roll is noticeable in sharp corners if you’re pushing it hard. Over several months, I’ve averaged about 11.2 km/l in combined driving, which aligns with Mitsubishi’s claims. Reliability has been solid; aside from routine maintenance, I haven’t encountered any major issues, though I’ve heard from other owners that the infotainment system can be slow to boot up in colder weather—a minor gripe, but worth noting.
In wrapping up, the 2019 Montero Sport GLX stands out as a dependable, no-fuss SUV that excels in versatility. It’s not the most luxurious or tech-forward option out there, but it gets the job done with minimal fuss. For families or outdoor enthusiasts on a budget, it’s a compelling choice—I’d recommend it to anyone looking for a vehicle that can handle weekday commutes and weekend getaways without breaking the bank. As we step into a new year, much like wishing “Get well this new year, Luis,” it’s about embracing reliability and forward momentum, and the Montero Sport GLX delivers just that.