The first generation pickup-based Mitsubishi Montero Sport made its debut in Japan back in 1996 where it was known as the Challenger, it only reached the Philippines in early 2005. The first Philippine-spec Montero Sport was the refreshed model that carried the Olivier Boulay-designed split grille which adorned Mitsubishi models of the time. The second generation Montero Sport arrived in 2008, like before it remained pickup-based. Compared to its predecessor the second gen model was longer and now featured third row seats which increased the seating capacity from five to seven. Styling was cleaner, curvier and much more modern than the model it replaces. It was replaced by the current third generation Montero Sport in early 2016.

The Montero Sport now features more dynamic lines. Up front it gets the Japanese brand’s Dynamic Shield Concept fascia. This has been updated for 2020 with a more angular design for a tougher more aggressive look. Its sides are dominated by prominent wheel arches for a more rugged look. The rear gets unique vertical taillights with LED tubes; this gives it a distinctive lighting signature.

Like its Strada sibling, the Mitsubishi Montero Sports’ dashboard is very modern and car-like. Its flowing lines are highlighted by shiny trim that run from the top of the center stack all the way to the center console. For 2020 it gets a new gauge cluster with an 8-inch LCD display and an updated infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. 

The Mitsubishi Montero Sport is powered by the 2.4-liter DOHC inline-4 4N15 diesel mill which features electronic common rail direct injection, a variable geometry turbo and the Japanese brand’s MIVEC System, it churns out 178hp and 430Nm of torque. This powerplant is mated to an 8-speed automatic transmission with Sports Mode. It's available with 2WD and 4WD variants.

Like its predecessors, the Montero Sport is based on the L200/Strada pickup, the front half of its body structure and chassis is shared with its pickup sibling. It retains the independent double wishbone front suspension and three-link live axle coil spring suspension of the model it replaces. It has vented front disc brakes and drum-in-disc rear brakes. All variants are equipped with standard 18-inch alloy wheels wrapped in 265/60R18 tires.

Last but not the least is its standard safety features, the Mitsubishi Montero Sport comes with standard driver and passenger airbags, ABS with EBD, three-point seatbelts for all seven occupants, and second row ISOFIX child seat anchors. Extra features on the GT include curtain airbags, a driver knee airbag, and Trailer Stability Assist.

RALLIART
In late 2022, the Black Series RALLIART 2WD variant was added to the Montero Sport lineup, it features exclusive RALLIART components.