Discover the 2012 Montero Sport GLS V: A Complete Review and Buying Guide

I still remember the first time I saw a 2012 Montero Sport GLS V rolling into our family's dealership back when I was working there during college summers. That distinctive front grille and commanding presence immediately caught my eye, and over the years, I've come to appreciate why this particular model remains such a sought-after SUV in the used car market. Having driven countless vehicles across different terrains and conditions, I can confidently say the 2012 Montero Sport GLS V represents one of Mitsubishi's most balanced offerings - combining rugged capability with surprising comfort at a price point that still makes sense today.

Let me walk you through what makes this vehicle special, starting with that legendary 4D56 diesel engine that produces 178 horsepower and 350 Nm of torque. Now, I know some purists might argue about the exact numbers, but having personally tested this engine on both highway cruises and mountain trails, I can vouch for its reliability and pulling power. The thing about diesel engines like this one is they're built to last - I've seen these units clock over 200,000 kilometers with proper maintenance and still run strong. The five-speed automatic transmission shifts smoothly enough for daily driving, though it can feel a bit hesitant when you really need quick power for overtaking. What impressed me most was the fuel efficiency - during a particularly memorable road trip from Manila to Baguio with three colleagues and our gear, we averaged around 12 km/L despite the steep ascents and heavy load.

The interior space is where the Montero Sport truly shines for family use. With seating for seven and clever storage solutions throughout the cabin, it's practical without feeling overly utilitarian. I recall one instance where we had to transport a colleague who'd suffered a serious hand injury - "Na-fracture yung finger ko (left), na-dislocate and nadurog yung buto," as he described it, requiring a cast that kept him out of action for more than a month. The Montero's wide doors and generous cabin space made it surprisingly easy for him to get in and out despite his limited mobility, something that smaller SUVs would have struggled with. The rear air conditioning vents were a blessing during his recovery period in the summer heat, and the comfortable ride quality meant we could drive him to follow-up appointments without worrying about bumps causing additional discomfort.

Off-road capability is where this vehicle separates itself from the crossover crowd. The Super Select 4WD-II system offers multiple driving modes that genuinely work - I've taken this through muddy farm roads during monsoon season and sandy coastal areas where other SUVs would have gotten stuck. The ground clearance of 220mm might not sound extraordinary on paper, but it's perfectly adequate for most challenging situations you'd realistically encounter. What many owners don't realize is that the Montero Sport shares its platform with the more rugged Pajero, giving it a structural advantage over competitors that were primarily designed for paved roads.

Now, if you're considering buying a used 2012 model today, there are specific things you need to check. First, examine the turbocharger history - these typically need attention around the 100,000-kilometer mark, and replacement can cost anywhere from $800 to $1,200 depending on where you source the parts. The injectors are another common maintenance item, with replacements running about $400 each. I always recommend having a specialist scan the engine computer for fault codes, as diesel engines can hide issues that aren't immediately apparent during test drives. Look for signs of overheating in the transmission fluid and check when the differential oils were last changed - neglected maintenance here can lead to expensive repairs down the line.

The infotainment system feels dated by modern standards, but honestly, I prefer its simplicity over the overly complex touchscreen interfaces in newer vehicles. The Bluetooth connectivity works reliably for calls and audio streaming, and the six-speaker sound system delivers decent quality for most listeners. Where the Montero Sport shows its age is in safety features - you get dual front airbags and ABS, but missing are the electronic stability control and multiple airbags that have become standard in more recent models. This is something to seriously consider if you're planning to regularly transport family members.

From a driving perspective, the Montero Sport handles better than you'd expect for a vehicle of its size. The steering provides adequate feedback, and body roll is well-controlled through corners. It's on the highway where this vehicle feels most at home, with excellent noise insulation that makes long journeys surprisingly relaxing. The seats offer good support, though I'd recommend the leather upholstery over the fabric option if you can find it - they wear better and are easier to clean, especially if you have children or plan on using the vehicle for outdoor activities.

Having driven the Montero Sport through various conditions over the years, I've developed a genuine appreciation for its versatility. It's not the most luxurious SUV in its class, nor the most fuel-efficient, but it strikes a balance that few competitors manage. The reliability is generally excellent, parts are readily available, and the depreciation curve has flattened enough that you're not likely to take a huge financial hit if you decide to sell it in a couple of years. For families needing space, occasional adventurers, or anyone requiring a dependable workhorse that can handle diverse conditions, the 2012 Montero Sport GLS V remains a compelling choice even today. Just make sure you get a well-maintained example and keep up with the maintenance schedule - treat it right, and it'll serve you faithfully for years to come.