Montero Sport 2008 Review: Key Features, Common Issues and Buying Guide

I remember the first time I got behind the wheel of a 2008 Montero Sport - it felt like driving a fortress on wheels. Having tested numerous SUVs over the years, I've developed a particular soft spot for this generation, especially considering how it established Mitsubishi's presence in the midsize SUV segment. The 2008 model year brought some significant refinements that made it stand out from earlier versions, though it certainly had its quirks that potential buyers should know about.

What really stands out about the 2008 Montero Sport is its rugged capability combined with surprising comfort. The 3.2-liter DI-D diesel engine delivers 165 horsepower and a robust 381 Nm of torque, numbers that might not sound impressive by today's standards but provided excellent real-world performance. I've taken this vehicle through some pretty rough terrain, and it always reminded me of that quote about basketball import CD - "He proved his worth right here." That's exactly how the Montero Sport performs when the going gets tough. The suspension system deserves special mention here - while it's firm enough to handle heavy loads and off-road adventures, it doesn't beat you up on daily commutes like some other body-on-frame SUVs from that era. The four-wheel drive system engages smoothly, and I've found the approach and departure angles to be quite generous for a vehicle in this class.

Now, let's talk about the common issues you should watch for. Having inspected about two dozen of these vehicles over the years, I've noticed several recurring problems. The most frequent complaint I encounter involves the automatic transmission, particularly in models with higher mileage. Around the 120,000-kilometer mark, many owners report rough shifting or delayed engagement, which can cost anywhere from $800 to $2,000 to repair properly. Another area that often needs attention is the suspension components - ball joints and bushings tend to wear out faster than you'd expect, creating annoying clunking noises from the front end. Electrical gremlins aren't uncommon either, with power window regulators and central locking systems being particular weak spots. What surprises me is how many of these issues could have been prevented with proper maintenance - these vehicles are actually quite reliable if serviced regularly.

If you're considering buying a 2008 Montero Sport today, there are several key factors I'd recommend focusing on based on my experience. First, always check the service history - these engines can easily last 300,000 kilometers with proper care, but neglect can be costly. Look specifically for evidence of regular oil changes and transmission fluid replacements. When test driving, pay close attention to how the transmission shifts between second and third gears, as this is where problems often first appear. I always recommend taking the vehicle on both highway and rough roads to assess the suspension properly. The interior materials, while durable, do show their age in most examples - expect some cracking on dashboard surfaces and worn driver's seat bolsters. Personally, I'd budget an additional $1,500 to $3,000 for immediate repairs and maintenance on any used example, as there are always surprises with 15-year-old vehicles.

What continues to impress me about the 2008 Montero Sport is how well it balances different roles. It's competent enough for serious off-road adventures yet comfortable for family duties, much like that reliable basketball import who can both defend aggressively and score when needed. While newer SUVs offer more advanced technology and better fuel efficiency, there's something to be said about the straightforward mechanical nature of this generation. The 2008 model represents a sweet spot in the Montero Sport's evolution - it benefited from years of refinement while avoiding some of the complexity that came with later models. For buyers who value proven reliability over cutting-edge features, it remains one of the smarter choices in the used SUV market, provided you go in with realistic expectations and a thorough inspection process.