Sold in 170 countries and driven by 19 years of Paris-to-Dakar rally experience, there is no question the 2006 Mitsubishi Montero is one of only a few true world-class sport utility vehicles on the road today. The latest model continues the Montero legacy of successfully combining style and luxury with world-renowned, off-road ruggedness. Mitsubishi designed the Montero to be adaptable, ideally suited for those who indulge in family trips, treks into the wilderness or the valet line at the restaurant or nightclub.
For 2006, the Montero is again available only in the feature-packed Limited trim level. The only change to the vehicle is the discontinuation of a number of exterior colors.
"The Montero is a unique sport utility vehicle, clearly embodying the essence of Mitsubishi in its value, performance, urban flexibility and style," said Rich Gilligan, president and chief executive officer of Mitsubishi Motors North America, Inc. (MMNA). "Consumers looking for an SUV that meets a family's everyday driving needs while providing the versatility for off-road adventures will be very pleased with the Montero's amenities."
On-And-Off-Road Prowess
The flagship Montero Limited maintains its position as the most technologically advanced SUV in the Mitsubishi lineup, as well as one of the most capable off-road vehicles in the world.
The Montero owes its strong performance to its 3.8-liter, V6 engine. This engine adds power and torque to the Montero formula, delivering 215 horsepower at 5500 rpm and 248 pound-feet of torque at 3250 rpm. The 3.8-liter, SOHC, 24-valve, V6 engine is designed to start building torque early in the rev range and deliver a strong mid-range punch. Throttle-by-wire controls provide immediate engine response and work in concert with the vehicle's electronic traction aides. Adding refinement to the drive are liquid-filled engine mounts, a single serpentine accessory drive belt and large-diameter, low-rpm cooling fan which combine to produce a quiet and smooth engine uncommon for a vehicle of the Montero's size.
The Montero is equipped with a five-speed Sportronic(TM) Sequential Shift five-speed automatic. Offering clutchless manual gear changes or fully automatic control, Sportronic(TM) makes off-road and urban driving even more satisfying. Sportronic(TM) shifting is a surprising feature in an authentic, off-road-worthy SUV.
Working in conjunction with the automatic five-speed is Mitsubishi's world-renowned ActiveTrac(TM) four-wheel drive (4WD) system, standard equipment that offers a drive mode for any situation. ActiveTrac(TM) includes rear-wheel drive, full-time all-wheel drive, and 4WD high- and low-range with locked center differential. Better still, the ActiveTrac(TM) gear shifter triggers an electric motor that in turn selects drive modes, so changing from two-wheel drive (2WD) to 4WD is virtually the same as flipping a switch.
Mitsubishi Active Skid and Traction Control system is standard. This computer-controlled traction system governs an Active Brake Traction Control module that causes minute brake actions which help to limit wheel spin on slick or loose surfaces. This system gives Montero superior off-road crawling at low speeds while still enhancing highway handling and safety in wet conditions.
The Montero utilizes a power-assisted rack-and-pinion steering system designed to help provide superior driver control. This highly accurate system is mechanically geared for more on-road feedback and hydraulically valved for less off-road kickback. When the 265/65R-17 tires receive input from the steering wheel, the response is immediate, so when off-road the vibration transmitted through the steering is minimized.
The braking system includes front and rear ventilated discs, electronic front-to-rear brake distribution based on load, and standard MultiMode(TM) four-channel antilock brakes (ABS). The MultiMode(TM) feature tailors the ABS response to accommodate different surfaces, such as hard pavement when in 2WD and loose surfaces likely encountered in 4WD. The use of super-precise electro-hydraulic assist gives the brakes a linear feel and helps enhance response time during panic stops.
Features Summary
Montero offers thoughtful convenience features such as a full-size spare tire with alloy wheel and cover, front and rear reading lights, door-mounted puddle lamps, removable toolbox with flashlight, six passenger-assist grips, six cup holders (two front, two mid-cabin in center armrest and two rear) and floor mats. Roof rails, rear privacy glass and flip-open third-row windows round out the long list of standard features.
The Montero's seven-passenger seating comes courtesy of a clever third row that completely disappears into a well in the cargo-area floor. Storing the third seat under the floor frees up considerable cargo space, which is ideal for the instances when added passenger-carrying ability isn't required. When the seat is in the upright position, the covered storage well remains accessible. For additional space, the third-row seat can be removed completely leaving the deep covered storage well and rear cargo area available for luggage and gear.
The Montero Limited includes several upscale features, including leather seating surfaces (first and second rows); a leather- and wood-trimmed steering wheel; woodgrain interior accents; six-CD 315-watt Mitsubishi/Infinity(R) AM/FM/CD premium audio system with seven speakers; heated front seats; power driver's seat with 14 adjustments; power passenger seats; heated side-view mirrors; illuminated running boards, stylish 17-inch alloy wheels, a tire pressure monitoring system and LCD information center with compass, outside temperature, miles-to-empty, date and time.
Other luxury features offered as standard equipment on the 2006 Montero Limited include an oversized one-touch power tilt-and-slide glass sunroof, a fully automatic climate control system, and rear heater and air conditioner with passenger controls at the back of the center console. A DVD entertainment system with roof mounted screen and remote headphones for rear-seat passengers is available as optional equipment.
Warranty and Manufacturing
Mitsubishi cars and sport utility vehicles are backed by a comprehensive new vehicle limited warranty that covers the vehicle from bumper to bumper for five years/60,000 miles. In addition, the powertrain is covered by a 10-year/100,000 mile limited warranty, while body panels have a seven-year/100,000 mile anti-corrosion/perforation limited warranty. The program also includes 24-hour emergency roadside assistance with free towing to the nearest authorized Mitsubishi retailer for warranty-related repairs for five years/unlimited miles.
Mitsubishi Motors North America, Inc., (MMNA) is responsible for all manufacturing, finance, sales, marketing, research and development operations of the Mitsubishi Motors Corporation in the United States. Mitsubishi Motors sells coupes, convertibles, sedans and sport utility vehicles through a network of approximately 570 dealers.
# # #
