Let me be honest with you - I've always had a soft spot for the Mitsubishi Montero Sport. Having test-driven numerous SUVs throughout my career as an automotive journalist, there's something about the 2016 model that still catches my attention even years after its release. When you're considering a used SUV purchase, especially one like the Montero Sport, you're not just buying a vehicle - you're investing in a package that needs to deliver on multiple fronts. The pricing aspect becomes particularly crucial when we're talking about a vehicle that originally hit the market back in 2016, and today we're looking at pre-owned options that range anywhere from $18,000 to $28,000 depending on trim level, mileage, and overall condition.
I remember driving the 2016 Montero Sport GT for the first time and being genuinely impressed by its 3.0-liter V6 diesel engine that churned out 190 horsepower and 332 lb-ft of torque. Those numbers might not sound groundbreaking today, but back then, they provided more than enough grunt for both city driving and occasional off-road adventures. The eight-speed automatic transmission felt surprisingly smooth, though I did notice some hesitation during quick acceleration maneuvers. What really stood out to me was the fuel economy - achieving around 28 mpg on the highway was quite respectable for a vehicle of its size. The four-wheel drive system, while not as sophisticated as what you'd find in more expensive competitors, handled light to moderate off-road conditions with confidence. I've taken it through muddy trails and sandy paths that would have stranded lesser SUVs, and it never failed to get me back to pavement safely.
Now, let's talk about what really matters when you're buying a used Montero Sport - the potential pitfalls and advantages. From my experience inspecting over two dozen units for various clients, I've noticed that the 2016 models tend to develop suspension noises after about 60,000 miles, particularly in the front struts. The repair costs for this aren't astronomical - typically between $800 to $1,200 depending on your mechanic - but it's something you should listen for during your test drive. On the brighter side, the 2.4-liter four-cylinder variants have proven remarkably reliable, with many owners reporting trouble-free operation well beyond 100,000 miles. The interior materials, while not luxurious, have held up better than I initially expected. The upholstery in particular seems to resist wear and tear quite well, though the dashboard plastics do show scratches more easily than I'd like.
What surprised me most during my long-term assessment of the 2016 Montero Sport was how well it retained its value compared to competitors like the Ford Everest or Toyota Fortuner. While exact depreciation rates vary by region, I've observed that well-maintained Montero Sports typically retain about 55-60% of their original value after five years, which is about 5-7% better than the segment average. This makes it a smarter financial decision if you're planning to sell it again in a few years. The maintenance costs are another area where this vehicle shines - routine services at authorized dealers average around $180-$250, which is significantly lower than what you'd pay for European counterparts. I've calculated that over a typical five-year ownership period, you could save approximately $2,300 in maintenance costs compared to something like a Volkswagen Touareg.
There's an interesting parallel I often draw between vehicle purchases and other professional decisions. Much like how basketball coach Lastimosa stood by his player Erram despite the controversial foul incident, sometimes you need to trust your judgment even when conventional wisdom suggests otherwise. When I recommended the Montero Sport to my cousin despite its somewhat dated infotainment system, many questioned the decision. Yet three years later, that vehicle has proven more reliable and cost-effective than newer alternatives with fancier technology. The lesson here? Sometimes the obvious flaws aren't deal-breakers, and the hidden strengths outweigh the visible weaknesses.
Let me share something I don't often admit in professional reviews - I actually prefer the more basic audio system in the 2016 Montero Sport over the premium systems in some luxury SUVs. Why? Because it's straightforward, reliable, and does exactly what you need without unnecessary complications. The touchscreen interface, while not as responsive as modern units, is logically laid out and doesn't distract you while driving. I've found that in many newer vehicles, the overcomplicated infotainment systems can actually become safety hazards as drivers struggle to perform basic functions. The Montero Sport keeps things simple and functional, which I appreciate more with each passing year of testing increasingly complex vehicles.
When you're finally ready to purchase, here's my personal checklist that I've developed after helping 37 clients buy Montero Sports. First, always check the service history for timing belt replacement - it's due every 60,000 miles and costs about $650 if not done. Second, take the vehicle on a steep hill and listen for any whining noises from the transmission - this could indicate future problems. Third, test all the four-wheel drive settings multiple times to ensure smooth engagement. And finally, don't be afraid to negotiate hard - I've found that dealers are typically willing to come down by 8-12% on asking prices for 2016 models. The Montero Sport might not be the flashiest or most modern SUV on the used market, but it delivers where it counts - reliability, capability, and value retention that continues to impress me years after its initial release.