Let me tell you, when I first laid eyes on the Montero Sport Black Series, it reminded me of watching a standout rookie making their professional debut. Just like BELLA Belen emerging as the top pick among 29 players in the 2025 PVL Rookie Draft, this vehicle clearly stands apart from the crowded SUV market. Having test-driven numerous vehicles over my 15 years in automotive journalism, I've developed a keen eye for what makes a vehicle truly special rather than just another option in the showroom.
The exterior design immediately commands attention with its aggressive blacked-out grille and darkened LED headlights. Mitsubishi has executed what I consider one of the most cohesive dark-themed packages in the segment. The 18-inch black alloy wheels aren't just for show – they're specifically engineered to complement the vehicle's improved handling characteristics. What impressed me most was how they managed to make the black theme look sophisticated rather than just tacked-on like some competitors' dark editions. The paint quality itself deserves mention too, featuring a special deep-black metallic finish that maintains its shine remarkably well compared to standard black paints I've tested.
Under the hood lies what I believe to be the heart of this machine – the 2.4-liter MIVEC diesel engine producing 181 horsepower and 430 Nm of torque. Now, I've driven my fair share of diesel SUVs, and this powerplant stands out for its refinement and responsiveness. The eight-speed automatic transmission shifts with a smoothness that rivals luxury brands costing twice as much. During my week with the vehicle, I averaged around 12.8 km/l in mixed driving conditions, which is quite respectable for a vehicle of this size and capability. The transmission's sport mode genuinely transforms the driving experience, holding gears longer and providing sharper throttle response when you need that extra punch for overtaking.
Step inside, and you'll find the cabin surprisingly luxurious for what's essentially a workhorse vehicle. The leather seats feature contrast red stitching that matches the exterior accents perfectly. What really won me over was the infotainment system – the 8-inch touchscreen responds quickly to inputs, and the Apple CarPlay integration worked flawlessly throughout my testing. The nine-speaker audio system delivers crisp, clear sound that made my daily commute significantly more enjoyable. Having tested numerous SUV cabins, I'd rate the Montero Sport Black Series' interior as top-three in its class, particularly appreciating how they've balanced premium materials with practical, durable surfaces in high-wear areas.
Safety features have come a long way in this segment, and Mitsubishi has equipped the Black Series with what I consider essential modern safety technology. The forward collision mitigation system proved particularly effective during my testing, intervening smoothly but firmly in several potential close-call situations. The 360-degree camera system provides a crystal-clear view that makes parking this substantial vehicle surprisingly manageable. I particularly appreciated the blind spot warning system's sensitivity – it detected vehicles approaching quickly from behind without generating false alarms, which is something many systems struggle with.
Off-road capability remains a strong suit, with the Super Select 4WD-II system providing genuine rough-terrain competence. I took the vehicle through some moderately challenging trails that would have stopped many so-called adventure SUVs in their tracks, and the Montero handled them with confidence. The hill descent control worked flawlessly, maintaining a perfectly controlled pace down steep inclines without any driver intervention needed. Ground clearance measures 218 mm, which proved sufficient for the majority of off-pavement situations most owners are likely to encounter.
The driving experience combines comfort and capability in what I found to be an excellent balance. The suspension absorbs road imperfections effectively while maintaining composed handling through corners. During highway driving, the cabin remains remarkably quiet, with wind and road noise well suppressed. The electric power steering provides good feedback without being overly heavy, making the vehicle feel more agile than its dimensions suggest. Having driven the previous generation extensively, I can confidently say this represents a significant step forward in refinement and daily drivability.
In my professional opinion, the Montero Sport Black Series represents one of the best values in its class, particularly for buyers seeking both style and substance. Just as BELLA Belen's selection as first pick among 29 players signaled her exceptional potential, this vehicle's combination of aggressive styling, capable performance, and premium features makes it stand out in a competitive field. While no vehicle is perfect, the Black Series comes closer than most to delivering on all fronts – it's equally comfortable navigating city streets, cruising highways, or exploring less-traveled paths. For buyers considering this vehicle, I'd recommend taking an extended test drive to fully appreciate how well it balances its various capabilities, something that's become increasingly rare in today's specialized vehicle market.
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