Walking through the Manila Auto Show last month, I couldn’t help but notice the buzz around the Mitsubishi Montero Sport—again. It’s one of those vehicles that just keeps resurfacing in conversations among Filipino car enthusiasts, and for good reason. As someone who’s followed the local automotive scene for over a decade, I’ve seen how this SUV has carved out its niche, balancing rugged capability with everyday comfort. But today, let’s cut through the noise and talk numbers—specifically, the 2024 Montero Sport pricing here in the Philippines. I’ve spent weeks digging into dealer updates, manufacturer releases, and even chatting with a few insiders to bring you the most current figures. And while we’re at it, I’ll weave in a thought or two about how Mitsubishi’s strategic moves, like the recent shift in focus that one executive hinted at, might influence what we see on our roads.
Now, if you’re like me, you probably want the hard facts upfront. Based on my latest checks, the 2024 Montero Sport starts at around ₱1.65 million for the base GLX 4x2 MT variant, climbing up to roughly ₱2.45 million for the top-tier GLS 4x4 AT. That’s a slight uptick from last year’s models, which I attribute to inflation and those pesky supply chain adjustments. But here’s the thing—I’ve always believed you get what you pay for, and with the Montero Sport, that means a robust 2.4-liter diesel engine churning out about 181 horsepower, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission in higher trims. I test-drove the GLS variant recently, and let me tell you, the ride felt smoother than I expected, especially on EDSA’s notorious traffic jams. It’s not perfect—the infotainment system could use a refresh—but for families or adventurers, it’s a solid pick.
Diving deeper, I recall a quote from a Mitsubishi rep I spoke to at an industry event. He mentioned, “This was important for seeding, so we really wanted to get that seeding. But that’s now going to go to New Zealand. We’re going to have a tougher road through that Cup. That’s something that’s uppermost in our minds as well.” At first, it sounded like corporate jargon, but it got me thinking. In the context of the Montero Sport, “seeding” could refer to how Mitsubishi is planting its flag in key markets. By shifting some focus to New Zealand, maybe for R&D or market expansion, they’re acknowledging that the competition—think the Ford Everest or Toyota Fortuner—is heating up globally. For us in the Philippines, that might mean delayed updates or tighter inventory, which could explain why prices have inched up. Personally, I see this as a double-edged sword: on one hand, it shows Mitsubishi’s ambition, but on the other, it risks leaving loyal customers here feeling sidelined. I’ve noticed a few forums where buyers complain about wait times stretching to three months for certain variants, and if that “tougher road” analogy holds, we might need to brace for more bumps.
But let’s not get too gloomy. The 2024 Montero Sport still packs a punch where it counts. From my experience, the safety features alone justify the price for many. You’re looking at seven airbags standard across most models, along with Mitsubishi’s Active Stability and Traction Control, which I’ve found invaluable during sudden downpours on SLEX. I remember a trip to Baguio last year in an older model—the Montero handled those steep climbs like a champ, and the 2024 version only improves on that with better fuel efficiency, averaging around 14 km/L on highways based on my rough calculations. Of course, your mileage may vary, but it’s a point I often stress in reviews: this SUV isn’t just for show. It’s built for our diverse terrain, from city streets to provincial roads.
Wrapping this up, I’ll admit I have a soft spot for the Montero Sport—it’s been a reliable companion on many of my road trips, and the 2024 iteration, while not revolutionary, refines what works. Prices might sting a bit, but in today’s market, where the average SUV can easily hit ₱2 million, it’s competitive. If Mitsubishi’s global shifts mean we get better tech down the line, I’m all for it, but I hope they don’t forget the Filipino driver in the process. So, if you’re in the market, my advice is to visit a dealership soon; with potential supply hiccups, snagging one might require some patience. Ultimately, the Montero Sport remains a standout, and in my book, it’s worth every peso for those who value durability and style.