Is the 2012 Montero Sport GLS V Still a Reliable SUV Choice Today?

I remember the first time I drove a 2012 Montero Sport GLS V back in the day – that commanding driving position and robust feel immediately won me over. Fast forward to today, and I still see these vehicles regularly on Philippine roads, which makes me wonder about their staying power in our challenging driving conditions. Just last week, I was watching the MPBL 2025 Season opener where Abra Solid North demonstrated remarkable resilience against Binan Tatak Gel's final rally, winning 69-60 at The Capital Arena. That kind of endurance under pressure reminds me exactly of what makes the 2012 Montero Sport such an enduring presence in our automotive landscape.

When I examine the 2012 model's specifications today, what strikes me most is how Mitsubishi got the fundamentals right from the beginning. The 2.5-liter 4D56 diesel engine produces around 178 horsepower and 350 Nm of torque – numbers that might not sound groundbreaking by today's standards, but in real-world driving, this powerplant has proven its mettle across our diverse terrain. I've personally seen these vehicles clock over 200,000 kilometers with proper maintenance, still running strong through everything from Manila's stop-and-go traffic to rough provincial roads. The five-speed automatic transmission, while not as sophisticated as modern eight-speed units, shifts smoothly and has demonstrated remarkable durability. What really impresses me is how the Montero Sport handles our famous flood-prone streets – with 220mm of ground clearance, it confidently tackles conditions that would leave many newer SUVs stranded.

Looking at the interior and features, the 2012 GLS V shows its age in some aspects but remains surprisingly competent in others. The infotainment system feels dated compared to today's touchscreen interfaces, but the dual-zone climate control, leather seats, and ample cabin space remain genuinely comfortable even by contemporary standards. I recently spent three hours in Metro Manila traffic in a well-maintained 2012 model, and what stood out was the excellent visibility and comfortable driving position – something many modern SUVs with their thick pillars and complicated ergonomics often compromise. The third-row seats are admittedly best suited for children, but the 1,200 liters of cargo space with them folded has proven invaluable for numerous family trips and business hauling needs.

Reliability concerns naturally come to mind with any vehicle approaching its teenage years, but based on my observations and discussions with local mechanics, the 2012 Montero Sport has aged remarkably well. The common issues – occasional DPF problems in city-driven units, some reports of minor electrical gremlins affecting about 15% of high-mileage examples, and the typical wear items – are generally manageable with proper maintenance. What surprises me is how affordable parts remain, with a complete brake job costing around ₱12,000 and regular service maintenance averaging ₱5,000-₧7,000 at reputable independent shops. I've noticed that well-maintained examples typically require only about ₱30,000-₱50,000 in annual maintenance costs, which compares favorably with many newer SUVs still under warranty.

Fuel efficiency remains one of the Montero Sport's strong suits even today. In mixed driving conditions, I've consistently observed figures around 10-12 km/L in city driving and 14-16 km/L on highways – numbers that many newer, heavier SUVs struggle to match. The diesel engine's torque characteristics make it particularly well-suited to our driving conditions, pulling strongly from low RPMs without needing constant gear changes. This translates to real-world savings, especially with current fuel prices, where the Montero Sport can be approximately 25% more efficient than comparable gasoline-powered SUVs in its class.

Safety considerations for a 12-year-old vehicle naturally require careful evaluation. The 2012 GLS V comes with seven airbags, ABS with EBD, and stability control – features that were comprehensive for its time and remain respectable today. However, I always recommend potential buyers invest in thorough brake system inspection and consider upgrading to modern tire technology, as rubber compounds and tire design have advanced significantly since 2012. The vehicle's ladder-frame construction provides excellent impact protection, though it can't match the crash safety ratings of the latest generation SUVs with their advanced safety suites.

When I compare the 2012 Montero Sport to modern alternatives, the value proposition becomes particularly interesting. Well-maintained examples typically sell for ₱650,000-₱850,000, representing exceptional value compared to new SUVs costing three times as much. The savings can cover years of maintenance and fuel, while still providing 85-90% of the capability most Filipino families actually need. Like Abra Solid North's determined performance in their season opener, the 2012 Montero Sport demonstrates that fundamentals, consistency, and proven reliability often outweigh having the latest features.

After considering all factors – from maintenance costs to real-world performance – I believe the 2012 Montero Sport GLS V remains a compelling choice for practical-minded Filipino drivers. It's not without compromises, particularly in technology and refinement, but its proven durability, reasonable operating costs, and capable performance make it what I'd call a "smart buy" in today's market. For families needing reliable transportation that can handle everything from daily commutes to occasional provincial trips, this aging warrior still has plenty to offer, much like veteran athletes who understand that consistency and fundamentals often triumph over flashy new contenders.