The 2004 Mitsubishi Montero stands apart as one of the few sport utility vehicles that successfully combines style and luxury with world-renowned, off-road ruggedness. Sold in 170 countries and backed by 18 years worth of Paris-to-Dakar rally trophies, the Montero is a rugged, adaptable vehicle, ideally suited for those who indulge in family trips, treks across untamed desert or the valet line at the nightclub. "The Montero continues to make a compelling statement for the value of vehicles offering superior off-road performance, urban flexibility, and a heightened sense of style," said Finbarr O'Neill, co-chairman and chief executive officer of Mitsubishi Motors North America, Inc. (MMNA). "The 2004 Montero's amenities meet a family's everyday needs in the urban jungle while providing the versatility for off-road adventures.''
EXTERIOR
For 2004, the flagship Montero adds to its luxury amenities list an optional DVD video entertainment system that gives rear seat occupants something to pass the time. For added safety on and off the road, a Tire Pressure Monitoring System is standard equipment. Thanks to these enhancements, the 2004 Montero remains the most technologically advanced S.U.V. in the Mitsubishi lineup, as well as remaining one of the most capable off-road vehicles in the world.
POWERTRAIN
The Montero owes its strong performance to its 3.8-liter V6 engine. This engine adds power and torque to the Montero formula, delivering 215 horsepower at 5500 rpm and 248 pound-feet of torque at 3250 rpm. The 3.8-liter, SOHC, 24-valve, V6 engine is designed to start building torque early in the rev range and deliver a strong mid-range punch. Throttle-by-wire controls provide immediate engine response and work in concert with the vehicle's electronic traction aides. Adding refinement to the drive are liquid-filled engine mounts, a single serpentine accessory drive belt and large-diameter, and a low-rpm cooling fan which combine to produce a quiet and smooth engine uncommon for a vehicle of the Montero's size.
The Montero is equipped with a five-speed Sportronic(TM) Sequential Shift five-speed automatic. Offering clutchless manual gear changes or fully automatic control, Sportronic(TM) makes off-road and urban driving even more satisfying. Sportronic(TM) shifting is a surprising feature in an authentic, off-road-worthy S.U.V.
Working in conjunction with the automatic five-speed is Mitsubishi's world-renowned ActiveTrac(TM) four-wheel drive (4WD) system, standard equipment offering a drive mode for any situation. Other standard features include rear-wheel drive, full-time all-wheel drive, 4WD high-range with locked center differential and 4WD low-range with locked center differential. Better still, the ActiveTrac(TM) gear shifter triggers an electric motor that in turn selects drive modes, so changing from two-wheel drive (2WD) to 4WD is virtually the same as flipping a switch.
The M-ASTC system uses brake action to stop spinning wheels and send power through an open differential to the wheel with traction.
Mitsubishi Active Skid and Traction Control system is standard. This computer-controlled traction system governs an Active Brake Traction Control module that affects minute brake actions to limit wheel spin on slick or loose surfaces and gives Montero superior off-road crawling at low speeds while still enhancing highway handling and safety in wet conditions.
Using a computer that relies on multiple sensors, a modulator controls brake actions to correct vehicle attitude.
The Montero utilizes a power-assisted rack-and-pinion steering system designed to help provide superior driver control. This highly accurate system is mechanically geared for more on-road feedback and hydraulically valved for less off-road kickback. When the 265/70R-16 tires receive input from the steering wheel, the response is immediate, and when off-road, the shock and thumb-twisting jolts transmitted through the steering are greatly diminished.
The braking system includes front and rear ventilated discs, electronic front-to-rear brake distribution based on load, and standard MultiMode(TM) four-channel antilock brakes (ABS). The MultiMode(TM) feature tailors the ABS response to accommodate different surfaces, such as hard
pavement when in 2WD and loose surfaces likely encountered in 4WD. The use of super-precise electro-hydraulic assist gives the brakes a linear feel and helps enhance response time during panic stops.
FEATURES SUMMARY
Standard amenities on the Montero include air conditioning; premium seat
coverings, power windows, door locks and outside mirrors; running boards; dual front and side air bags; six-speaker, 140-watt AM/FM stereo with CD player; security system with remote keyless entry; electronic engine immobilizer; three 12-volt power outlets, one of which is positioned in the center console for convenient cellular phone plug-in; and a center armrest with fore-and-aft adjustment and two storage compartments.
Additional standard convenience items include six passenger-assist grips, front and rear reading lights, door-mounted puddle lamps, removable toolbox with flashlight, full-size spare tire with alloy wheel and cover, six cup holders (two front, two mid-cabin in center armrest, and two rear) and floor mats. Roof rails, rear privacy glass and flip-open third-row windows round out the long list of standard features.
The Montero's seven-passenger seating comes courtesy of a clever third row that completely disappears into a well in the cargo-area floor. Storing the third seat underfloor frees up considerable cargo space, which is ideal for the instances when added passenger-carrying ability isn't required. When the seat is in the upright position, the covered storage well remains accessible. For additional space, the third-row seat can be removed completely, leaving the deep covered storage well and rear cargo area available for luggage and gear.
The Montero includes several upscale features, including leather seating
surfaces (first and second rows); a leather- and wood-trimmed steering wheel; woodgrain interior accents; 315-watt Mitsubishi/Infinity(R) AM/FM/CD premium audio system with seven speakers; heated front seats; power driver's seat with 14 adjustments; power passenger seats; heated side-view mirrors; illuminated running boards,and LCD information center with compass, outside temperature, miles-to-empty, date and time.
Other luxury features available on the Montero include: an oversized one-touch power tilt-and-slide glass sunroof, a fully automatic climate control system, rear heater and air conditioner with passenger controls at the back of the center console, and an all-new DVD entertainment system for rear seat passengers (not available with sunroof equipped vehicle).
The Montero is backed by a three-year or 36,000-mile bumper-to-bumper warranty, five-year or 60,000-mile powertrain warranty, and seven-year or 100,000-mile anti-corrosion/ perforation limited warranty. In addition, Mitsubishi provides 24-hour roadside assistance and free towing on all warranty-related repairs during the first three years or 36,000 miles.
Mitsubishi Motors North America, Inc., (MMNA) is responsible for all manufacturing, finance, sales, marketing, research and development operations of the Mitsubishi Motors Corporation in the United States, Canada, Mexico and Puerto Rico. Mitsubishi Motors sells coupes, convertibles, sedans and sport utility vehicles through a network of nearly 700 dealers throughout North America.
Source: Mitsubishi
