2001 Mitsubishi Montero Sport in Dalton, GA - $3,977

In January I traveled from Des Moines, some 200 miles, to Kansas City in a nasty winter storm that turned into a brutal ice storm. I was driving a brand new four-wheel drive Mitsubishi Montero Sport Limited SUV, with the drivetrain locked into 4H. Despite the very treacherous road conditions, the midsize Mitsubishi SUV turned in an impressive performance of unflappable on-road manners, never sliding, skidding or otherwise causing me concern -- despite the fact that the highways were littered with all kinds of vehicles -- including a number of lesser SUVs.

Significantly updated and restyled last year, with numerous interior and exterior revisions and improvements to on-road drivability, the Montero Sport is one SUV worthy of note in the crowded SUV market. Built by Mitsubishi in Nagoya, Japan, the Montero Sport is available in two- or four-wheel drive configurations and ES, LS, XLS and Limited trim levels.

The Mitsubishi SUV is powered by a couple of six-cylinder prime movers: (6G72) 3.0L SOHC 24-valve (ES/LS/XLS) and the (6G74) 3.5L SOHC 24-valve mill (Limited). Torque is transferred to the road through a four-speed automatic transmission with the Mitsubishi adaptive shift control system.

This transmission controls its shift pattern to match road conditions and the driver's style. The adaptive shift control improves shift quality by factoring accelerator position, vehicle speed, brake application and road conditions to select the appropriate gear.

On the road, all of this goodness adds up to a quiet, solid, confidence-inspiring package which proves itself in the worse weather conditions. A massive ladder frame is further bolstered with lateral braces under the passenger compartment cross members and additional supports in the cargo compartment to add strength and rigidity to the body.

An independent front suspension is connected to this solid foundation with unequal-length double A-arms and long torsion bars, telescopic shock absorbers and a stabilizer bar. In the rear, a three-link coil-spring suspension works with a rigid rear axle, telescopic shock absorbers and stabilizer bar for a smooth ride.

Inside the cabin, the Montero Sport at once informs, pampers and protects the driver and passengers. Displays and controls are easy to reach and use. Seating is comfortable for all occupants. Cupholders and storage spaces abound. The center armrest is particularly useful. Outward visibility is outstanding as are the flexibility and versatility of the rear seats to accommodate passengers and cargo.

Ratings & Specifications

Engine performance numbers are 3.0L -- 165 hp at 5,250 rpm and 186 lb/ft of torque at 4,000 rpm; 3.5L -- 197 hp at 5,000 rpm and 223 lb/ft at 3,500 rpm. EPA fuel economy figures range from 18 city/22 highway for the 3.0L V-6/two-wheel drive to 16 city/20 highway for the 3.5L V-6/four-wheel drive. Both engines use regular unleaded gasoline.

Properly equipped, the Montero Sport has can haul a maximum payload of 1,255 pounds and has a towing capacity of 5,000 pounds.

Standard safety/security equipment includes full size spare tire, dual front airbags engine and fuel tank skid plates and side impact door beams. LS adds four-wheel disc brakes with anti-lock, transfer case skid plate, privacy glass and immobilizer system. XLS adds fog lamps, security system with keyless remote entry. Limited adds limited slip differential.

The base Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) for the 2001 Mitsubishi Montero Sport SUV starts at $22,747 for the ES, two-wheel drive to $32,777 for the Limited four-wheel drive. Destination charge adds $520.

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