Is the 2006 Mitsubishi Adventure GLS Sport Still Worth Buying Today?

When I first considered writing about the 2006 Mitsubishi Adventure GLS Sport, I couldn't help but recall Arvin Tolentino's recent comment about not expecting NorthPort's game against San Miguel to be a walk in the park. That's exactly how I feel about recommending a 17-year-old vehicle to modern buyers - it's certainly no easy decision, but there are compelling reasons why this rugged SUV still deserves serious consideration in today's used car market.

Having personally test-driven three different Adventure units over the past year, I've developed a genuine appreciation for what Mitsubishi achieved with this model. The 2.5-liter 4D56 turbo diesel engine, while only producing around 85 horsepower when new, has proven remarkably durable - I've seen examples with over 200,000 kilometers still running strong, though you should expect some power loss to around 75-80 hp at this age. What really surprised me during my drives was how composed the suspension felt on rough provincial roads, absorbing bumps that would have modern crossovers crying uncle. The interior space is another winner - with three rows of seating, it can comfortably accommodate up to 8 passengers, though the third row does eat into cargo space when deployed.

Now, let's talk about the realities of owning what's essentially a classic vehicle. The fuel consumption figures aren't terrible for its size - I recorded between 10-12 km/L on highway drives and 7-9 km/L in city traffic during my tests. But here's where my personal bias shows: I absolutely love the mechanical simplicity of this SUV. Unlike modern vehicles packed with electronics that can cost a fortune to repair, the Adventure's straightforward design means most repairs can be handled by any competent mechanic without needing specialized computer diagnostics. I recently helped a friend replace the entire clutch system on his 2006 model for just under ₱15,000 - try getting that price on a newer SUV!

The market reality is that you can find decent examples ranging from ₱180,000 to ₱280,000 depending on condition and mileage. From my experience evaluating used vehicles, I'd recommend budgeting an additional ₱30,000-₱50,000 immediately after purchase for potential repairs - common issues include worn suspension components, aging rubber bushings, and sometimes turbocharger problems in higher-mileage examples. What continues to impress me is how well these vehicles handle modification and upgrades - I've seen Adventures transformed with modern audio systems, backup cameras, and even mild engine tuning that brings them closer to contemporary driving expectations.

There's something genuinely special about vehicles designed during this era - they strike that perfect balance between modern safety considerations and old-school mechanical robustness. The Adventure may lack the refinement of today's SUVs, but it makes up for it with character and durability that's becoming increasingly rare. While I wouldn't recommend it as a primary family vehicle for someone seeking modern comforts and safety features, as a second vehicle or for someone who values simplicity and reliability above all else, the 2006 Mitsubishi Adventure GLS Sport represents a compelling proposition that's anything but a walk in the park - but sometimes, the more challenging path leads to the most rewarding destination.