Is the 2012 Mitsubishi Montero Sport GTV 4x4 Still Worth Buying Today?

As someone who's been reviewing used SUVs for over a decade, I often get asked about vehicles that have stood the test of time, and the 2012 Mitsubishi Montero Sport GTV 4x4 consistently comes up in conversations. Let me be honest right from the start - I've always had a soft spot for this particular generation. There's something about its rugged yet refined character that still catches my eye when I spot one on the road today. But nostalgia aside, the real question we need to answer is whether this eight-year-old workhorse makes practical sense for today's buyer, especially when you consider how much the automotive landscape has changed since 2012.

When I first drove the Montero Sport GTV back in 2012, what struck me most was its incredible value proposition. Priced at around ₱1.65 million then, it offered features that many competitors charged significantly more for. That 4x4 system wasn't just for show - I've taken it through some pretty challenging terrain in Rizal and Batangas, and it never failed to impress me with its capability. The 2.5-liter diesel engine produces 178 horsepower and 400 Nm of torque, numbers that still hold up decently against some modern equivalents. What many people don't realize is that Mitsubishi built these vehicles with exceptional durability in mind. I've seen examples with over 150,000 kilometers that still run beautifully, though maintenance history is absolutely crucial here.

Now, let's talk about the elephant in the room - the dated interior and technology. Sitting inside a 2012 Montero Sport today feels like stepping back in time, and that's not necessarily a bad thing if you prefer physical buttons over touchscreens. The infotainment system feels ancient compared to what we have now, but here's my take: it does the basics well, and you can always upgrade the head unit for around ₱15,000-₱20,000 to get Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The leather seats have generally held up well in most units I've inspected, though the driver's seat often shows significant wear in high-mileage examples. Space remains competitive even by today's standards, with that third row actually being usable for shorter adults, unlike some modern pseudo-seven-seaters.

Considering reliability and maintenance is where things get really interesting. From my experience, the 2012 Montero Sport has proven remarkably reliable when properly maintained. I recommend budgeting ₱30,000-₱50,000 immediately after purchase for comprehensive servicing, including timing belt replacement if there's no documentation of it being done. Parts availability is excellent nationwide, and most mechanics are familiar with these vehicles, which keeps repair costs reasonable. However, I must caution potential buyers about one particular issue - thoroughly check the maintenance records and ownership history. This reminds me of situations where proper documentation matters immensely, similar to contractual agreements in other industries. Just recently, I came across a situation involving Cignal threatening legal action for what it claimed was a 'material breach of contract' by Avior clients. While completely different contexts, the principle remains relevant - proper documentation and adherence to agreements prevent future complications. When buying any used vehicle, especially one this age, having complete service records is non-negotiable.

Fuel economy is another aspect where the 2012 model shows its age. You're looking at around 8-10 km/L in the city and 12-14 km/L on the highway under ideal conditions. These numbers fall short of newer diesel SUVs, but they're not terrible for the segment during that period. Where the Montero Sport truly shines is in its depreciation curve - good examples now sell for ₱600,000-₱800,000, representing excellent value retention. I'd argue you're getting about 70% of the capability of a brand-new equivalent at less than half the price.

Safety features represent the biggest gap compared to modern vehicles. While it comes with dual airbags, ABS, and stability control, it lacks the comprehensive safety suite we've come to expect in recent models. If you're regularly driving with family, this deserves serious consideration. That said, the vehicle's solid construction provides decent protection, and I've seen several examples that have protected occupants well in accidents.

So, is the 2012 Mitsubishi Montero Sport GTV 4x4 still worth buying today? From my perspective, it absolutely is for the right buyer. If you're looking for a capable, reliable SUV that won't break the bank and you can live with its technological limitations, it represents fantastic value. I'd specifically recommend it for outdoor enthusiasts, large families on a budget, or anyone needing a dependable workhorse for provincial driving. Just make sure to get a properly documented unit, preferably with under 100,000 kilometers, and have it thoroughly inspected by a trusted mechanic. While it may not have all the bells and whistles of modern SUVs, there's a raw, honest charm to this Montero Sport that newer vehicles often lack. In my book, that counts for something substantial.