Press Release
Mitsubishi Announces U.S. Montero Sport Debut
11/04/96
Mitsubishi Motors' All-New Montero Sport Makes Its U.S. Debut at Salt Lake City Auto ShowSALT LAKE CITY, Oct. 31 -- Today, Mitsubishi Motors' debuts its completely new Montero Sport in its first U.S. public appearance at the Salt Lake City Auto Show. The Montero Sport is Mitsubishi Motors most recent entry into the sport utility segment, and comes backed with international heritage and an emphasis on refinement and high value. Drawing on over six decades of 4-wheel-drive experience, and reflecting a dauntless reputation in 172 countries around the globe, our newest sport utility vehicle is a trim, 5-passenger alternative to the world-renowned, 7-passenger Montero LS and SR. Built with the same attention to rugged yet refined performance as the larger Montero, the Montero Sport offers exceptional versatility in a more agile and affordable size. And although the new Montero Sport casts a slightly smaller shadow than the senior Montero, the stout ladder frame construction, robust powertrains and proven suspension provide strength and capability that mini SUVs or compact wagons simply can't match. The Montero Sport is engineered to provide spaciousness, strength and premium features that will challenge its direct competitors, the Nissan Pathfinder and Toyota 4Runner, while also boasting a more competitive price. In addition, the Montero Sport is poised to successfully compete with the Honda Passport, Isuzu Rodeo, Chevrolet Blazer and Jeep Cherokee. Despite its rugged lineage and durable design, the Montero Sport places an emphasis on polished road manners and a civilized interior. With particular attention to reducing interior noise levels, isolating road harshness and improving maneuverability, the Montero Sport is ideal for the urban chores of most drivers. Mitsubishi Motors engineers paid special attention to suspension tuning, sound insulation and isolation of the frame from the passenger compartment. The lowered center of gravity, optimized weight distribution, and carefully selected spring rates, suspension bushings and shock absorber settings also contribute to the Montero Sport's athletic handling and reassuring stability. Adding to the Montero Sport's multi-talented capabilities, the space behind the rear seat can hold an impressive 43.4 cubic feet of cargo, including room provided in the available under-floor storage compartments. For example, the Montero Sport provides more rear cargo capacity than the Nissan Pathfinder. A choice of full-folding or split-folding rear seats further increases both versatility and carrying capacity. For foul-weather security and the ability to tackle rough terrain, the Montero Sport is offered with both 4-wheel drive and a limited-slip rear differential. The shift-on-the-fly 4WD system is equipped with a 2-speed transfer case that provides low gearing for extremely tough conditions and extra pulling power for steep hills. A Montero Sport equipped with the V6 engine is also capable of towing up to 5000 pounds, providing the muscle to haul a 2-horse trailer or a 24-foot sail boat. Offered in four models with a broad choice of features, options and performance equipment, the Montero Sport can be outfitted for a wide range of needs and desires. The Montero Sport ES is equipped with a smooth, high- torque 134-horsepower, 16-valve, 2.4-liter 4-cylinder engine and 5-speed manual transmission. This 2-wheel-drive model provides an excellent balance of efficient performance, considerable cargo capacity and comfortable accommodations for five passengers and all their gear. With a towing capacity of 2300 pounds, the Montero Sport ES can easily tow jet skis, dirt bikes and a variety of tent trailers. The mid-level Montero Sport LS is powered by a 173-horsepower 3.0-liter, 24-valve V6 engine, backed by either a standard electronically controlled 4-speed automatic transmission in 2WD models, or a 5-speed manual transmission in 4WD models (the automatic transmission is optional with 4WD). In addition to a long inventory of standard comfort and convenience items, the LS also offers stand-alone options and equipment packages that include alloy wheels, Multi-Mode(TM) anti-lock brakes, power glass moonroof, leather interior trim, a Mitsubishi/Infinity(R) Premium Audio System with eight speakers and a 10- disc CD changer. Four-wheel-drive models can be equipped with a limited-slip rear differential, auxiliary multimeter with compass, rear heater and a rear- mounted spare tire carrier. At the top of the Montero Sport range is the XLS with standard 4WD, air conditioning, automatic transmission, premium audio system, leather interior trim, large 265/70R15 tires on alloy wheels, fender flares, side steps, chrome grille accent and 2-tone paint. All Montero Sports are equipped with standard dual front air bags, height adjustable front shoulder belts and 3-point safety belts for all outboard passengers. Anti-lock brakes are optional on the LS 2WD, and on the LS and XLS 4WD models 4-wheel disc brakes are standard, with a Multi-Mode(TM) anti- lock braking system offered as an option. Montero Sport: Full-Size SUV Engineering In A New Midsize Package With its roomy and quiet 5-passenger interior, rugged chassis and drivetrain and highly competitive price, the Montero Sport is an exceptional value. And with Mitsubishi Motor's global reputation for unflinching off-road engineering, the Montero Sport continues a distinguished line of authentic sport utility vehicles. Montero Sport has the size, price and heritage to make it a global success.