Mitsubishi Montero

MSRP: $36,159
Angle of approach/departure: 39/18 degrees
Ground clearance: 8.6 inches
Turning radius: 18.7 feet

2006 Mitsubishi Montero + click to enlarge | view slideshow >

The Montero’s silhouette, with its tall proportions and short overhangs, speaks to off-roaders, as does its very upright, truck-like driving position. The ability is there, too, with serious off-road hardware built in, like an on-demand locking center differential, low-range transfer case and skid plates, along with a stability control system that assists off-road as well as on. While the Montero boasts impressive specs for off-roading, including a tight turning radius, it doesn’t handle as nimbly as other modern SUVs on the road, nor is its ride as supple as most.

It’s a very capable and comfortable SUV, but the last of a breed — Mitsubishi plans to discontinue the Montero in the U.S. at the end of the year with no plans for a replacement.

Published 04/05/2006