Is the 2019 Montero Sports the Best Mid-Size SUV for Your Family Needs?

As I sat down to evaluate the 2019 Montero Sports for my family's needs, I couldn't help but draw parallels to the excitement building around the PVL's return this February. Just like volleyball fans analyzing team rosters before the All-Filipino Conference resumes after its month-long break, families need to carefully examine every aspect of a potential family vehicle. The Montero Sports enters the mid-size SUV arena much like those 12 teams preparing for competition - each with unique strengths and weaknesses that could make or break your experience.

Having test-driven numerous vehicles in this segment, I've developed a particular appreciation for what Mitsubishi brings to the table. The 2019 model specifically caught my attention with its 2.4-liter MIVEC diesel engine producing 181 horsepower - numbers that genuinely impressed me during my week-long test drive. What stood out most was how this power translated to real-world family use. The 8.1 inches of ground clearance might seem like just another spec sheet number, but when I took it through some rough roads during a weekend trip, that extra clearance made all the difference while still maintaining surprisingly good stability on highways.

The interior space deserves special mention because this is where the Montero Sports either wins or loses families. Measuring exactly 1,815mm in width and with that clever third-row seating configuration, I found it could comfortably accommodate my family of five plus our weekend gear without feeling cramped. The 8-inch touchscreen interface responded quicker than many competitors I've tested, though I'll admit the graphics felt slightly dated compared to some Korean rivals. What surprised me most was the fuel efficiency - during mixed driving conditions, I consistently achieved around 12.3 km/L, which honestly beats several segment rivals I've owned previously.

Safety features often get overlooked until you need them, but having experienced the Montero Sports' forward collision mitigation system activate during an unexpected traffic slowdown, I can personally vouch for its effectiveness. The seven airbag configuration provides peace of mind that's hard to quantify until you're driving with your most precious cargo - your family. I do wish Mitsubishi had included blind-spot monitoring as standard rather than making it available only in higher trims, but the rear cross traffic alert proved invaluable in crowded parking lots.

Comparing it to other mid-size SUVs I've owned over the years, the Montero Sports strikes me as the workhorse of the segment - not necessarily the most glamorous, but incredibly capable where it counts. The suspension tuning leans toward the firmer side, which I actually prefer for maintaining control during emergency maneuvers, though some might find it slightly less plush than competitors on rough pavement. Cargo capacity stands at 1,488 liters with the third row folded, which handled our family's camping trip gear with room to spare.

After extensive testing and comparison shopping, I've come to view the 2019 Montero Sports much like how serious PVL fans assess their favorite teams - it may not excel in every single category, but its overall package and reliability make it a championship contender in the family SUV segment. The diesel engine's torque characteristics combined with that robust chassis give it a distinctive personality that grows on you over time. While newer models have since entered the market, the 2019 version represents what I consider the sweet spot in terms of features versus value, making it worth serious consideration for families prioritizing practicality and durability over flashy gadgets.