When I first saw the 2019 Montero Sport sitting on the dealership lot back in early 2020, I remember thinking this vehicle had a certain presence that many modern SUVs seemed to be losing. Fast forward to today, and I've had the opportunity to test drive over 50 different SUVs in my career as an automotive journalist, yet I keep coming back to that particular model year as something special. The question I've been getting from readers lately is whether this four-year-old model still holds up in today's rapidly evolving automotive market. After spending three weeks with a 2019 Montero Sport GLS Premium and putting it through its paces across various driving conditions, I can confidently say this vehicle presents one of the most compelling cases in the used SUV market right now.
Let me start with what makes the 2019 model particularly interesting. Mitsubishi launched what they called the "Black Series" special edition that year, which immediately reminded me of how video game companies handle special editions with season passes. Just like those gaming special editions that give players access to DLC characters, cosmetics, and other digital goodies, the Montero Sport's special editions came packed with additional features that standard trims didn't offer. The Black Series, for instance, added about $3,500 worth of premium features including blacked-out trim, upgraded leather seats, and additional safety features that would normally cost significantly more if added separately. This approach of bundling value reminds me exactly of how the gaming industry creates compelling special editions - they're not just selling you the base product, but an enhanced experience that keeps giving you value over time.
Driving the 2019 Montero Sport today still feels surprisingly modern, especially considering its diesel engine configuration. The 2.4-liter MIVEC turbo diesel engine produces 181 horsepower and 430 Nm of torque, numbers that still compete respectably against newer models in its class. What impressed me most during my testing was the fuel efficiency - I recorded an average of 12.8 km/L in mixed driving conditions, which is only about 8% less efficient than the 2023 model. The eight-speed automatic transmission shifts smoothly, though I did notice slightly more hesitation when accelerating from complete stops compared to newer transmissions. The suspension handles rough roads with a confidence that many modern SUVs have sacrificed in pursuit of softer ride quality. I personally prefer this slightly firmer setup because it provides better feedback through the steering wheel and more predictable handling during emergency maneuvers.
Inside the cabin is where the 2019 model shows its age, but not as dramatically as you might expect. The 8-inch touchscreen interface isn't as responsive as current systems, taking about 1.2 seconds to register inputs compared to the near-instant response of 2023 models. However, it still supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, which essentially future-proofs the infotainment system. The interior materials, particularly in the special edition models, have held up remarkably well. After inspecting three different used models with between 45,000 and 75,000 kilometers on them, I found minimal wear on the most commonly used surfaces. The leather seats showed only slight creasing, and the dashboard materials showed no significant fading or cracking, which speaks volumes about Mitsubishi's material choices.
Safety is often a concern with older models, but the 2019 Montero Sport was quite advanced for its time. It features seven airbags, stability control, and Mitsubishi's Active Stability and Traction Control system. During my testing, I particularly appreciated the Multi-around Monitor system, which uses cameras to provide a virtual 360-degree view around the vehicle - a feature that many competitors still charge extra for today. While it lacks some of the more advanced driver assistance features becoming standard in 2023 models, like lane centering or adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go functionality, the core safety systems remain competitive. In crash tests conducted by ASEAN NCAP, the 2019 model scored five stars, achieving particularly high marks in adult occupant protection at 16.38 out of 17 points.
From a value perspective, the 2019 Montero Sport represents what I consider the sweet spot in depreciation curves. A model that originally sold for approximately $42,000 now typically costs between $28,000 and $32,000 in the used market, representing about 30% depreciation. Meanwhile, maintenance costs remain reasonable - according to data I compiled from various service centers, average annual maintenance costs run about $480 for the first five years, significantly lower than many European competitors. Parts availability is excellent throughout most markets, with wait times for common components typically under 48 hours according to dealership service departments I surveyed.
There are certainly compromises to consider. The 2019 model lacks the more refined noise insulation of newer models, with cabin noise measurements showing about 3 decibels higher at highway speeds compared to the 2023 version. The warranty coverage on most 2019 models is either expired or nearing expiration, though Mitsubishi's certified pre-owned program can extend coverage. The diesel engine, while efficient, may face increasing regulatory scrutiny in some urban areas over the coming years.
After considering all factors, I believe the 2019 Montero Sport remains an excellent choice for buyers seeking a capable, reliable SUV without the premium price tag of a new vehicle. It particularly shines for those who frequently travel on rough roads or need serious towing capability - the 3,100 kg towing capacity outperforms many newer SUVs in its class. The special edition models offer that "season pass" value proposition I mentioned earlier, giving you premium features that continue to deliver satisfaction years after purchase. While it may not have all the latest technological bells and whistles, its core competencies - reliability, capability, and value retention - make it what I'd call a "smart buy" in today's used SUV market. For my money, I'd choose a well-maintained 2019 special edition over many newer, more expensive alternatives.
