I remember the first time I considered buying a second-hand Montero Sport - that mix of excitement and apprehension was palpable. Having spent considerable time researching this vehicle and speaking with numerous owners, I've come to appreciate both its strengths and weaknesses. The quarter measurements you often see in specifications - 18-19 inches for legroom, 39-28 inches for headroom, 57-45 inches for shoulder room, and 86-55 inches for hip room - only tell part of the story. These numbers translate to a genuinely comfortable cabin, especially for taller passengers in the front seats, though the rear does feel noticeably tighter than those figures might suggest.
What many prospective buyers don't realize is how much the Montero Sport's driving experience varies between model years. The earlier models, particularly those from 2008 to 2014, have a distinctly truck-like feel that some drivers love and others find too agricultural. The steering is heavier, the suspension firmer, and there's more road noise than in later iterations. Personally, I've grown to appreciate this character - it feels honest and purposeful, unlike some modern SUVs that try to disguise their utilitarian nature. The 2015 facelift brought significant improvements in refinement, with better sound insulation and a more car-like driving position, but it also lost some of that rugged charm that originally attracted me to the vehicle.
When it comes to reliability, the Montero Sport has a generally solid reputation, but there are specific trouble spots you need to check carefully. The 2.5-liter diesel engine found in many models is remarkably durable if properly maintained, but I've seen too many examples where neglected timing belts led to catastrophic engine failure around the 100,000-mile mark. The automatic transmission can be another weak point - I always recommend having a specialist check for rough shifting or delayed engagement, as replacement costs can run upwards of $3,500. What surprises many buyers is how expensive some replacement parts can be compared to more common Japanese SUVs. A friend recently paid nearly $800 for a replacement transfer case module that would have cost half that for a comparable Toyota model.
Fuel economy is another area where reality often disappoints expectations. While official figures might suggest you'll get around 28 mpg on the highway, in real-world driving you're more likely to see 22-24 mpg, and that drops significantly if you do much city driving or tow anything substantial. I've found that the sweet spot for these vehicles is long-distance cruising rather than daily commuting - they're remarkably composed at speed and can handle rough roads with an ease that shames many modern crossovers.
The interior quality is where the Montero Sport shows its age most noticeably. Even in well-maintained examples, you'll find hard plastics that scratch easily and switchgear that feels dated compared to contemporary vehicles. The infotainment system in pre-2015 models is particularly primitive by modern standards. Yet there's a functional honesty to the cabin that I've come to appreciate - everything is logically arranged and built to withstand years of use. The seats, covered in durable if not particularly luxurious fabric, have proven remarkably resistant to wear in the examples I've inspected.
One aspect that doesn't get enough attention is the Montero Sport's off-road capability. While it lacks the rock-crawling prowess of a Wrangler or the luxury of a Range Rover, it strikes an excellent balance between everyday comfort and genuine off-road ability. The four-wheel-drive system is robust and relatively simple to operate, and the ground clearance is sufficient for most moderate off-road adventures. I've taken several examples through muddy trails and sandy washes that would stop many modern SUVs in their tracks, and the Montero Sport always felt confident and capable.
Maintenance history is absolutely crucial when evaluating a used Montero Sport. I cannot stress this enough - a well-maintained example with full service records is worth paying a premium for, while a neglected one could cost you thousands in repairs. Pay particular attention to the suspension components, as worn bushings and shock absorbers are common in higher-mileage examples and can significantly affect the driving experience. The good news is that these vehicles respond well to proper maintenance, and a comprehensively serviced Montero Sport can provide many years of reliable service.
Ultimately, buying a used Montero Sport requires accepting certain compromises in exchange for its unique combination of rugged capability, spacious interior, and relative affordability. While it may not have the polish of some competitors or the latest technology features, it offers something increasingly rare in today's market: honest, capable transportation that doesn't try to be something it's not. For the right buyer - someone who values substance over style and capability over convenience - it remains a compelling choice in the used SUV market. Just be sure to have any potential purchase thoroughly inspected by someone familiar with these vehicles, as their condition and maintenance history vary dramatically from example to example.