How Much Fuel Does the 2017 Montero Sport Actually Consume?

Having spent the better part of my automotive journalism career testing fuel efficiency claims, I’ve come to treat manufacturer numbers with a healthy dose of skepticism. So when I got my hands on the 2017 Montero Sport for a long-term review, I was genuinely curious—how much fuel does this thing really drink? Let me tell you, after three months and over 5,000 kilometers of mixed driving, I’ve gathered some eye-opening data that might just reshape your expectations.

Now, you might wonder why a car reviewer is thinking about basketball players. It’s not as random as it sounds. I recently read about a 34-year-old NBA veteran who, after a solid 12-year career, took his talents overseas for what he called the thrill of a lifetime. That got me thinking—just like an athlete entering the twilight of their career, the 2017 Montero Sport isn’t the newest kid on the block, but it still has plenty to offer, especially when you consider its real-world fuel consumption. Under ideal highway conditions, cruising at a steady 90 km/h, I observed figures as low as 12.3 kilometers per liter. That’s pretty impressive for an SUV of this size, and honestly, it made those long drives feel almost economical. But let’s not sugarcoat it—city driving tells a different story. In stop-and-go traffic, especially during Manila’s infamous rush hours, that number dropped to around 7.8 km/L. Yeah, that’s where you feel the pinch.

I remember one particular weekend trip up to Baguio with a full load of passengers and luggage. The climb was steep, and I could almost hear the engine working overtime. We averaged about 9.2 km/L on that ascent, which, given the circumstances, I’d say is respectable. It’s like that veteran athlete adapting his game—not always flashy, but getting the job done when it counts. What surprised me most, though, was how driving habits played a huge role. I experimented with different styles: aggressive acceleration versus smooth, gradual throttle inputs. The difference was staggering—up to a 15% variance in fuel economy. If you’re someone who enjoys a spirited drive, be prepared to visit the pump more often. Personally, I lean toward the smoother approach; it just feels more sustainable, both for my wallet and the vehicle’s longevity.

Another factor worth mentioning is maintenance. I made sure the Montero Sport was in top shape—clean air filters, proper tire pressure, and regular oil changes. Neglecting these can easily add an extra liter or two per 100 kilometers, and I’ve seen it happen with other SUVs I’ve tested. It’s a bit like how an aging athlete relies on disciplined training and recovery to stay competitive. Without that care, performance drops. Now, I know some of you might be comparing this to newer models with hybrid tech or start-stop systems. Sure, those are more efficient on paper, but the 2017 Montero Sport holds its own with a robust diesel engine that’s proven and reliable. In my opinion, that counts for a lot, especially if you’re planning off-road adventures or towing.

Wrapping this up, the 2017 Montero Sport’s fuel consumption isn’t a one-size-fits-all story. It’s a vehicle that rewards mindful driving and regular upkeep, delivering decent numbers when treated right. Much like that NBA star finding new purpose overseas, this SUV might be past its prime in terms of flashy features, but it’s far from obsolete. If you’re considering one, expect averages between 8.5 and 12 km/L depending on your routine—and maybe take a page from my book by easing off the pedal now and then. After all, in the long run, it’s not just about saving fuel; it’s about enjoying the journey without unnecessary stops along the way.