Is the 2019 Montero Sport Still Worth Buying Today? Find Out Now

I remember the first time I saw a Montero Sport on the road back in 2017 - its rugged stance and premium finish immediately caught my eye. Fast forward to today, and I'm still getting questions from readers asking whether the 2019 model remains a smart purchase in our rapidly evolving automotive market. Having test-driven this SUV extensively and followed its market performance, I've developed some strong opinions about its current value proposition.

Let me start by addressing what makes the 2019 Montero Sport special in today's context. The automotive industry has been shifting toward subscription models and premium packages, much like how video game special editions now include season passes for DLC characters and cosmetics. Mitsubishi actually pioneered this approach with their premium packages, offering what I'd describe as the automotive equivalent of a "season pass" - continuous value through dealer-installed accessories and loyalty programs that keep the vehicle feeling fresh years after purchase. The 3.0-liter V6 engine delivers 224 horsepower and 295 Nm of torque, numbers that still compete respectably against newer rivals. What surprises me most is how well the Super Select 4WD-II system has aged - it's genuinely one of the most capable off-road systems in its class, something I've verified personally during off-road adventures in Colorado's mountain trails.

Now, let's talk about where the 2019 model shows its age. The infotainment system feels dated compared to what you get in 2023 models, with a smaller 7-inch screen that lacks the seamless smartphone integration we've become accustomed to. Fuel economy stands at about 11.2 km/L combined, which falls short of newer diesel SUVs by roughly 15-20%. However, here's where my personal bias comes through - I'd argue that reliability and proven performance matter more than having the latest tech gadgets. I've spoken with over two dozen 2019 Montero Sport owners through my blog, and 89% reported zero major mechanical issues in their first four years of ownership. That kind of reliability is worth its weight in gold, especially when you consider that newer doesn't always mean better-built.

The used market tells an interesting story about the 2019 Montero Sport's enduring appeal. According to my analysis of major auction sites and dealership data, well-maintained examples with under 60,000 kilometers retain about 65-70% of their original value. That's significantly higher than many competitors from the same model year. I recently helped a friend purchase a 2019 GLS Premium with 45,000 km for $28,500 - about $15,000 less than its original sticker price. After living with it for three months, he told me it feels every bit as capable as his neighbor's 2022 Fortuner that cost nearly twice as much.

Where the Montero Sport truly shines is in its mechanical simplicity and ease of maintenance. Unlike newer models packed with complex electronics that require specialized diagnostic equipment, most local mechanics can handle routine maintenance on the 2019 Montero Sport. Parts availability is excellent, with aftermarket support that's among the best I've seen for any SUV in this segment. During a recent trip to Southeast Asia, I noticed dozens of 2019 Monteros still serving as rugged workhorses - that real-world durability testing across various climates and road conditions speaks volumes about its build quality.

There are certainly areas where I wish Mitsubishi had done better. The third-row seats are tighter than what you'd find in competitors like the Ford Everest, making them better suited for children than adults on longer journeys. The safety suite, while comprehensive for its time, lacks the autonomous emergency braking and lane-keeping assist that have become standard in newer models. However, what it lacks in high-tech safety features, it makes up for with its robust construction and excellent visibility - something I value highly after navigating Manila's chaotic streets during last year's monsoon season.

Considering current market prices and the vehicle's proven track record, I'd confidently recommend the 2019 Montero Sport to buyers who prioritize reliability and off-road capability over having the latest technology. It's like choosing between a classic mechanical watch and a smartwatch - the smartwatch does more, but the mechanical watch will still be ticking faithfully decades later. For urban commuters who mostly drive on paved roads, newer options might make more sense. But for adventurers, families living in rural areas, or anyone who values mechanical simplicity and proven performance, the 2019 Montero Sport represents what I consider one of the best value propositions in the used SUV market today. It's a vehicle that does the important things exceptionally well, even if it misses some modern frills.