Summary
What Edmunds.com says
An SUV that backs up what its body promises off road, but still needs more power for on-road activities such as towing a trailer.
Pros
Distinctive styling, superior off-road ability, Japanese build quality.
Cons
Lack of power from standard V6, no optional V8, limited usefulness for third-row seat, reported tendency toward instability in quick maneuvers.
What's New for 2002
For 2002, Montero has several new features and refinements to greater enhance its market position. Montero Limited has new color-keyed exterior features, and both Limited and XLS now have a spare tire cover that matches the body color (except with Munich Silver).
Consumer Ratings & Reviews
Love my Montero
Vehicle
2002 Mitsubishi Montero XLS 4WD 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 4A)
Review
I have owned my Montero XLS for 6 years and I have never regretted my purchase. Today I have 3 kids currently in car seats and my oldest (age 6) sits in the 3rd row. Because the car seats in the 2nd row stay there permanently I let my son in and out using the rear door which has never been an issue. I love all the space especially the tall roof. It is perfect for my husband who is over 6 ft tall. He borrowed my truck today and as I admired it as it drive off I thought "Wow-I still love my truck!" It has 96000 miles on it and I have never had any mechanical problems ever! It has good pick up, it is a quiet ride, and has tons of storage when the third row is tucked away. I love it!
Favorite Features
Tall roof, comfy seats, 3 rows without being a minivan, easy to park, smooth ride that can handle off road and bad weather.
Suggested Improvements
Heat and air in the 3rd row. In the Carolina I feel like I need the air on full blast the duration of the ride for my son to stay cool in the 3rd row. (It gets LOUD after awhile!)
The best SUV out there
Vehicle
2002 Mitsubishi Montero Limited 4WD 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 5A)
Review
My dad had purchased this Montero Limited in silver and it was fully loaded with all the options. He really enjoys driving this car because it was his favorite car when he did his research. For me I love this SUV. If Mitsubishi would add a V8 then the gas mileage would be much worse. But since it's a V6 you can actually add parts to the engine to make it faster. The best thing about this Montero is the moonroof it has. It's very big and stylish. You can also add stepbars to make it better looking and much easier to get in. No problems. Mitsubishi did a nice job on the Montero. But the 2003 and newer look uglier now. Also you can and I recommend install an alarm with car starter.
Favorite Features
LCD computer display, transmission 5 speed auto-manual, comfort, leather, exterior look, engine performance and much more...
Suggested Improvements
Mitsubishi should have gave the Montero navigation system.
These are awesome!
Vehicle
2002 Mitsubishi Montero Limited 4WD 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 5A)
Review
Hi folks! These Monteros are really great SUVs! They are very stylish. We put 67K miles on ours without a single problem. Their seats are roomy & it is loaded with features. Some Hondas need tranny work, some Toyota engines have sludge issues, some Nissans need frequent sensors, but we have had Mitsubishis since 1983 & they are so trouble-free. The ride was choppy & unnerving though. Power is adequate if you don't tow, but underpowered a bit if you do. Mitsubishi is under appreciated & they build an outstanding vehicle!
Favorite Features
Style! Wood grain, mesh, curves, great stereo. Lots of comfort features too.
Suggested Improvements
Need a more stable ride. CONSUMER REPORTS RUINED THEIR CHANCES FOR SUCCESS BY SAYING THAT THESE WERE TIPPY. This was unfortunate but true. Improvements came in 2003. They really need at least 240 hp too.
Montero Limited
Vehicle
2002 Mitsubishi Montero Limited 4WD 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 5A)
Review
Bought this Montero brand new. Zero mechanical problems to date. Good first time Japanese car owner experience. I would recommend this truck to anybody looking for a good reliable SUV in this category. Truck has not been to the dealer not even once for repairs or under warranty. Third row seat is good enough for the kids and nephews.
Favorite Features
Stylish sporty look and interior design.
Suggested Improvements
I wish it came standard with a navigation system.
Dependability
Vehicle
2002 Mitsubishi Montero XLS 4WD 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 4A)
Review
I love this vehicle. I have 167,000 miles on this vehicle. The only money spent was on general maintenance items. No break downs or repairs. The timing belt is supposed to be changed every 60,000 miles, but I changed after 90,000 miles and only once thus far.I change oil every 6,000 miles. it does seem to take about a quart of oil every 2,000 miles.I purchased this vehicle with 27,000 miles on it.
Favorite Features
Sits up higher than many similar vehicles. Great radio. can be driven in very heavy snow without getting stuck. Lots of storage room.
Suggested Improvements
Better gas mileage.(I get 17 miles to the gallon.)
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