Story & photos by Randy S. Peregrino
FOR Mitsubishi Motors Philippines Corp. (MMPC), the way to showcase its utility vehicle’s superior off-road and safety-control technologies is to subject it through exigent terrains.
And these are not just the typical tarmac and dirt landscapes but a more technical playground designed to push any utility vehicle to its full potential. But that’s not all, as MMPC also commissioned two-time Paris Dakar rally champion Hiroshi Masuoka to stage his driving prowess. So when we arrived at the Tarlac Recreational Park for the Mitsubishi 4X4 camp and media test-drive, the atmosphere was already filled with enthusiasm. What in store for the entire motoring media group were a series of off-road run-throughs, circuit laps and riveting taxi rides with Masuoka.
Tackling the off-road trail
Up for the initial drive was the all-new Montero Sport GLS 4WD M/T version. The objective of the course was to highlight Mitsubishi’s advanced Super Select 4WD-II. This system allows the driver to take advantage of the four drive settings and functions, as well as the center differential lock controls and torque distribution to the wheels—on the fly (except when shifting to 4LLc). The trail to gallop was about more than 2 kilometers of numerous outdoor conditions ideal to try out the four-wheel drivetrain. With the function set to 4LLc (4WD Low Range with Locked Center Differential), we briefly encountered the rough and dusty portion. The particular drive setting enabled the manual gearbox to toggle between second and third gears trouble-free. On rocky sections, keeping it on 2nd gear was more than enough for the Montero Sport to crawl. Even at below 1,000 rpm, the new 4N15 turbodiesel with MIVEC powertrain still managed to produce substantial torque to go through the gradients. Soon, the muddy and puddle parts surfaced and every time the rear end drifts a bit, countersteering was applied to maintain the direction.
While the four wheels were working nonstop to tackle the terrains, everything was seamless inside the cabin by applying appropriate amount of throttle and braking. Despite the constant bouncing, the superb damping system coped and greatly reduced the impact inside. After the grueling trail, there was the swirled metal ramp to go through. By promptly adhering to spot directions, we seamlessly passed and made it back to the starting point.
The following round with the Strada GT 4X4A/T pickup was equally compelling when it comes to its off-roading capabilities. Since most of the stretches were dried up, we also tried to utilize the 4H (High Range) configuration. Though the drivetrain became freely to release more torque, by just regulating the throttle, the ride was remarkably as manageable as with the 4LLc setting. It was only through the remaining rocky and muddy sections where we reverted back to the low-range setting. Consequently, the tour became faster to complete.
Onto the difficult circuit
Next phase was to assess the all-new Montero Sport GT 4WD A/T variant on the track. The Tarlac Circuit is probably the most technical among the race circuits in the country. With about 18 total turns, including several hairpins and constricted curves, the venue was perfect to demonstrate Mitsubishi’s Active Stability and Traction Control (M-ASTC) safety feature. In order to spice things up, no other than Masuoka himself gave us the initial demonstration via a hot lap. The objective was to exhibit the difference in dynamics between the M-ASTC engaged and not. First with the feature disengaged, Masuoka gave us signals prior every tight turns and pointed out how the vehicle reacted. There was evident diverging from bends and that if not for his driving expertise, we would have been sidelined. But as soon as the function was employed halfway across, the vehicle completely achieved a more controlled maneuver. Somehow, the demonstration gave everyone a relief knowing that we would be the next to try out the course. On board, the same top spec version with the M-ASTC engaged, the first lap was intended for familiarization in order to establish the ideal braking, entry and exit points in a moderate speed. But upon reaching the starting grid area, full throttle was applied to pick up the speed. Even with intentional late braking before turning, the vehicle was still in great form. The superb handling and maneuverability are also aided by the soft and responsive power steering. And just like that, two fascinating laps were completed.
Extreme taxi ride with the champ
Saving the best for last, the next leg was the most-awaited by everyone. This particular leg was all about Masuoka’s showcase of rally driving in an all-stock Montero Sport GT 4WD A/T through a specially constructed trail. The best part was we all get to ride with him and experience Masuoka’s driving. With all active controls disengaged, the champ launched and off we went swiftly. Like a cowboy riding a wild horse, the champ exhibited his driving virtuosity while completely in charge over the speeding vehicle. Even when we were literally being tossed inside the cabin, watching the champ’s effortless piloting was simply astonishing. What consist of tight curves with rough, puddled, muddy and bumpy portions seemed like a walk in the park for Masuoka.
Image credits: Randy S. Peregrino, Mitsubishi Motors Philippines Corp