2003 Mitsubishi Montero Sport Review

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Editors' Rating

Not Yet Rated | Read the Model Review

Fuel Economy

15 - 18 mpg

Summary

What Edmunds.com says

An attractive midsize SUV in need of serious refinement.

Pros

Attractive inside and out, comfortable front seats.

Cons

Soft suspension, lethargic transmission, sloppy steering.

What's New for 2003

Mitsubishi raises the Montero Sport's roof to provide more headroom and ups the wattage (from 100 to 140 watts) on the audio system.

Consumer Ratings & Reviews

Great Car- I love it

Detailed Ratings

Overall Rating 

Performance: 10 Fun-to-Drive: 10 Build Quality: 9
Comfort: 9 Interior Design: 8 Reliability: 9
Fuel Economy: 8 Exterior Design: 10

Vehicle

2003 Mitsubishi Montero Sport LS 4WD 4dr SUV (3.0L 6cyl 4A)

Review

I really enjoy this car, it has been perfect for me. I live in Colorado and use my Sport to go off road camping, up to the mountains through the snow, and also driving as I live in the city. It has been very reliable, no problems other than regular wear and tear. I would recommend this car to anyone looking for an SUV. It has been great in the snow.

Favorite Features

Looks, off roading ability, AWD, lots of cargo space.

Suggested Improvements

Larger motor, it struggles when going into the mountains at times, but overall great car.

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very reliable

Detailed Ratings

Overall Rating 

Performance: 8 Fun-to-Drive: 8 Build Quality: 10
Comfort: 4 Interior Design: 6 Reliability: 10
Fuel Economy: 5 Exterior Design: 8

Vehicle

2003 Mitsubishi Montero Sport XLS 4WD 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 4A)

Review

It's been a very solid vehicle. Not a single mechanical issue. It now has 85,000 miles on it. Some complaints I have are that after about an hour of driving I've got to get out and stretch my legs. The seat height is too low. It's definitely not a vehicle designed for a tall person. The roof is also quite low. The side steps aren't really functional so my seat is wearing because I essentially have to slide in and out. It handles great in the snow and does well off road. My sister bought an '03 Jeep grand Cherokee at the same time we bought our MS. They've had nothing but trouble with it. There's something to be said for the simple design of MS. Not a whole lot of gadgets that can break.

Favorite Features

RELIABILITY. Exterior styling. Infinity sound system. Simplicity of interior design. Cargo space. Factory tires lasted for over 80,000 miles.

Suggested Improvements

More functional side steps. Roomier cockpit. More passing power. Gas mileage goes down the tubes if you drive any faster than 60 mph.

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Reliable, 2nd time buyer

Detailed Ratings

Overall Rating 

Performance: 8 Fun-to-Drive: 8 Build Quality: 9
Comfort: 8 Interior Design: 9 Reliability: 10
Fuel Economy: 7 Exterior Design: 9

Vehicle

2003 Mitsubishi Montero Sport ES Rwd 4dr SUV (3.0L 6cyl 4A)

Review

My daughter is driving my first Montero Sport, 180K miles and still going. We have never had any serious mechanical problems. We have done normal maintenance and it still runs and looks great. My 2003 is the same. I currently have 40K miles and it is great car for my business. I also have an Endeavor and love it!

Favorite Features

Suggested Improvements

Brakes and gas mileage.

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scary to drive

Detailed Ratings

Overall Rating 

Performance: 2 Fun-to-Drive: 1 Build Quality: 6
Comfort: 6 Interior Design: 6 Reliability: 6
Fuel Economy: 4 Exterior Design: 6

Vehicle

2003 Mitsubishi Montero Sport LS Rwd 4dr SUV (3.0L 6cyl 4A)

Review

I wish I'd listened to the advice another reviewer gave here on edmunds. He said the steering was "squirrely," and he was right! You can't take your eyes off the road for a second--this car will take you right off the road. And the sway in this thing makes my kids sick! No sway bar is available to correct it. Also, because the entire hatchback lifts up, it drips water right on you if it's been raining. Then, when you get home, your groceries fall out! I bought this because I liked the way it looked, but don't do it!

Favorite Features

Suggested Improvements

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Great Montero Sport

Detailed Ratings

Overall Rating 

Performance: 10 Fun-to-Drive: 10 Build Quality: 10
Comfort: 10 Interior Design: 10 Reliability: 10
Fuel Economy: 10 Exterior Design: 8

Vehicle

2003 Mitsubishi Montero Sport LS 4WD 4dr SUV (3.0L 6cyl 4A)

Review

What else can I say, I have been very pleased with this vehicle to date.

Favorite Features

Real 4WD and plenty of cargo room.

Suggested Improvements

A little more stylish perhaps.

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