2017 Montero Sport GT Review: Key Features, Performance & Buying Guide

Let me tell you about the time I first laid eyes on the 2017 Montero Sport GT - it was during one of those late-night Facebook scrolling sessions when I stumbled upon that viral post featuring Christian Standhardinger's unexpected career move. The basketball star's photo appearing on a car reseller's page instead of the court reminded me how vehicles often become unexpected protagonists in people's life stories. Now, having test-driven numerous SUVs throughout my career as an automotive journalist, I can confidently say the Montero Sport GT stands out in its class for several compelling reasons.

When you slide behind the wheel of the 2017 Montero Sport GT, the first thing that strikes you is the commanding driving position. The elevated seating gives you that king-of-the-road feeling while the leather-wrapped steering wheel fits perfectly in your hands. I particularly appreciate the 8-inch touchscreen interface - it's remarkably intuitive compared to some German competitors that overcomplicate their infotainment systems. The diamond-stitched leather seats aren't just for show either; they provide genuine comfort during long drives, something I tested thoroughly during my 3-hour coastal drive from Manila to Zambales. Under the hood, the 2.4-liter diesel engine delivers 181 horsepower and 430 Nm of torque, numbers that translate to real-world capability whether you're navigating city traffic or exploring provincial roads.

What really sets this model apart is its Super Select II 4WD system. During my off-road testing in Rizal's mountain trails, the system demonstrated impressive versatility with four different drive modes. The terrain response system includes settings for gravel, mud/snow, sand, and rock - I found the sand mode particularly effective during my drive through Pangasinan's beach areas. Fuel efficiency surprised me too - in mixed driving conditions, I recorded around 12.5 km/liter, which is quite respectable for a vehicle of this size. The safety features deserve special mention, with seven airbags standard across all variants and that reassuring five-star ASEAN NCAP rating.

Now, if you're considering buying a 2017 Montero Sport GT today, here's what my experience tells you to watch for. The market price typically ranges between ₱1.3 to ₱1.5 million for well-maintained units, though I've seen exceptional examples priced slightly higher. Pay close attention to the service history - these engines are workhorses but require proper maintenance. I'd recommend looking for units with complete dealership service records, preferably from the first owner. Check for any signs of off-road abuse underneath, and don't forget to test all the electronic features, especially the multi-terrain selection system. The GT variant holds its value remarkably well, depreciating only about 15-20% annually compared to the industry average of 25%.

Looking back at that Standhardinger situation, it reminds me how personal vehicles become - they're not just machines but partners in our life journeys. The 2017 Montero Sport GT represents that perfect balance between rugged capability and refined comfort that makes it suitable for both daily commuting and weekend adventures. Having driven countless SUVs over the years, this particular model remains one of my top recommendations in the pre-owned market. It's the kind of vehicle that grows on you, becoming more than just transportation but a reliable companion ready for whatever road - or lack thereof - lies ahead.