2006 Mitsubishi Montero Model Update

End Of The Road

Mitsubishi's full-size SUV lingers for one more year before retreating from the U.S.

The Montero was part of the original lineup of vehicles that Mitsubishi began selling in America during the early 1980s. It even predates the brand in the U.S., having been sold for a time as the Dodge Raider, a basic and boxy two-door version. Incidentally, Mitsubishi is resurrecting the Raider name for its own version of the Dodge Dakota pickup truck.

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Last redesigned for the 2001 model-year, the truck-based Montero had a reputation as a serious off-road vehicle, but has grown in size and become plusher over the years, though it remains just as capable on rough terrain. The Montero is currently offered in no less than 170 countries as a more Spartan and utilitarian sport utility vehicle. It will continue to be sold around the world after 2006.

The Montero remains unchanged in its final version, save for the deletion of a number of color choices. Available only in a single seven-passenger Limited trim level, its 3.8-liter V6 engine is weak relative to the vehicle's size and weight (4,718-lb. curb-weight). It generates 215 horsepower and 248 pound-feet of torque.

The only available transmission is a five-speed Sportronic automatic with manual shifting capability that can adapt shift patterns to driving style. The vehicle's ActiveTrac four-wheel-drive system can be activated on the fly and has a full-time 4WD mode.

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With a locking center differential and low-range gearing, the Montero is still a serious off-roader that can tackle rough terrain. A skid and traction control system improves off-road abilities at low speeds, as well as on-road stability over a wide range of situations and conditions.

The sophisticated suspension (double-wishbone up front, multilink at the rear) and lower-than-average stance afford a smooth ride and capable on-road handling. A MultiMode four-wheel-disc antilock braking system automatically adjusts brake-force distribution for varying road surfaces.

Inside, the seven-passenger cabin is fairly roomy, comfortable and quiet, trimmed in wood and leather. Its third-row seat is best suited for kids and folds flat into the floor to maximize cargo room. Standard equipment is plentiful, the only available option being a rear-seat DVD entertainment system.