Story & photos by Ronald Rey M. de los Reyes
IF magic truly existed in this world, it would emanate from an involuntary activity caused by some unexplained stimulus. It could be in the form of instant magnetism exuded by a particular person or object that catches one’s undivided attention.
In my case, one eye-catcher that triggered my senses was the all-new Mitsubishi Montero Sport, which we got acquainted with in a recent test-drive in the Queen City of the South.
Our story began as soon as we arrived at the Mactan International Airport one early morning. Here, we were immediately treated to a “red carpet” welcome courtesy of the Cebuanos.
“This is a great opportunity for the media to experience firsthand the overall performance of the all-new Montero in a real-world environment,” said Froilan Dytianquin, VP marketing, Mitsubishi Motors Philippines Corp.
Before the 10-unit convoy was unleashed to bring fury and grab everyone’s attention as it swoops past by unknowing onlookers, we first had a warm sumptuous breakfast at the Sky Deck of Azon Residences, overlooking the panoramic Mactan channel.
From there, we began our 127-kilometer sojourn to Daanbantayan onboard the midrange Montero Sport GLS 2-Wheel Drive Premium with eight-speed transmission.
The three-hour drive to northern Cebu allowed our group of 30 motoring journalists to test the capabilities of this all-new mid-size SUV.
The long straights of the route put the Montero’s world’s first clean-diesel engine, equipped with Mitsubishi Innovative Valve timing Electronic Control (MIVEC) technology, through its paces.
The new 2.4-liter 4N15 diesel, which is now Euro 4-compliant, seemed more powerful, as it propelled the beast with relative ease.
The powertrain, with its new Variable Geometry Turbo (VGT) that bestows the Montero with 181 ps of power and 430 N-m of torque, produces a quicker and more vigorous response, while the eight-speed tranny provides a quieter ride at high speeds and better fuel efficiency. For a spirited driving motoring journo like me, however, cruising between 100 and 120kph felt like having a Zen moment at a Taoist temple.
Handling-wise, the all-new Montero is more nimble compared to the previous model. Thus, it is more agile as we sprinted, darted and navigated through tight turns of the various tricycle-infested suburbs.
Shortly after arriving at the famed haven of Kandaya Resort in Daanbantayan, we were given the chance to take pictures of this Spartan stunner. With a picturesque backdrop, we couldn’t help but marvel in awe at the Montero Sport’s striking aesthetics.
Exterior-wise, the amalgamation of elements makes it a true headturner on the road. Up-front, its unsullied, sophisticated and sharp lines exude power and athleticism, as its long snout adopts the new Dynamic Shield front-fascia concept.
Style is, indeed, in its bible, as those edges clearly distinguish it from other conventional SUVs.
At the rear, meantime, tube-type LED combination lamps leave lasting impressions on vehicles behind.
As icing on the cake, all variants are equipped with 265/60 R18 tires, while the top-of-the-line GT variant dons two-tone 18-inch x7.5JJ alloy wheels.
The next morning, the group decided to explore more of the countryside’s rare allure with a trip to Malapascua Island and, after a momentary escape, it was time to journey back to the city. On our way back, we paid more attention to the vehicle’s interior.
Inside, luxury and comfort come to the fore. First, its black monotone dashboard, complemented with silver and woodgrain accents, boosts the vehicle’s level of refinement. Everything’s ergonomically placed on its dashboard, along with the side controls for a relaxed and easy driving.
Seats are now more comfortable, thanks to the multilayer cushion. Their more rounded shoulders support the position of occupants’ upper torsos, while also giving them a regal appeal.
The upgraded sound insulation, meantime, provides a significant interior-noise reduction. As an added plus, passengers of the top model get to enjoy a panoramic view in all directions because it is sporting a moon roof.
Truly, the vehicle has a certain wizardry, which inadvertently could drive one to the point of fixation. And it was proven by this writer’s sudden unintended admiration for the all-new Mitsubishi Montero Sport.
Image credits: Ronald Rey M. de los Reyes