1998 Mitsubishi Montero Driving Impressions Review at Automotive.com
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1998 Mitsubishi Montero Review: Road Test

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1998 Mitsubishi Montero Review

Less upright, but still grand.
Driving Impressions
By class standards, the Montero Sport's soft suspension, power steering and extensive application of sound-deadening

materials make it a smooth highway cruiser. The high seating position is beneficial as well, putting the driver in a

position to see over whatever blocks the path.

Real-world use tends to highlight the best and worst features of sport-utilities, however, so bear in mind that

comfort and softness are relative terms. The Montero Sport's ride quality does not achieve passenger-car levels.

Neither does maneuverability. You will get jiggled around somewhat by rough pavement, and will need to be aware of

handling limitations if sudden, evasive action is needed on the highway. Tight parking spaces will highlight the

large turning radius.

Driven appropriately, however, the Montero Sport is a class leader in both handling and ride quality. And thanks to

its proven chassis hardware (a rugged box-section steel frame and hefty suspension pieces taken from the Montero) and

a generous 8.5 inches of ground clearance, the Montero Sport can be driven off road with confidence. If trail-busting

is on your agenda, we suggest ordering the limited-slip rear differential and bigger wheels and tires.

Mitsubishi's four-wheel-drive system uses a traditional floor-mounted lever with which the driver chooses between

2WD, 4WD and 4WD Low. The 4WD positions are strictly for off-road use or when snow is heavy enough to allow wheel

slippage in tight corners.

On the highway, the Sport is a bit noisy; tire treads are the prime culprits at low speeds, joined by the engine

when accelerating or cruising at high speeds. There's also a shortage of horsepower. These traits are common to most

sport-utilities, so they'll come as no surprise to the experienced SUV owner. Just allow extra room for passing maneuvers. Next Page



1998 Mitsubishi Montero
  
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