Is the 2nd Gen Montero Sport Still a Reliable SUV Choice in 2024?

Let me be honest with you - when I first heard someone asking about the 2nd gen Montero Sport's reliability in 2024, my initial thought was "seriously?" We're talking about a vehicle that's been around since 2015, and in automotive years, that's practically ancient history. But then I remembered something a basketball coach once said during a crucial playoff race: "Lahat kami down. We badly needed that win para sa positioning sa playoffs. Good thing na meron pa kaming chance. May three games pa kami." That mindset perfectly captures why people still consider this aging warrior - when you're down but still fighting, you need something you can count on.

I've driven countless SUVs over my 15 years in automotive journalism, and what strikes me about the 2nd gen Montero Sport is how it's become the underdog that refuses to quit. The 2.4-liter diesel engine, while not exactly cutting-edge technology anymore, has proven remarkably durable. I've personally seen examples with over 200,000 kilometers still running strong, which says something about Mitsubishi's engineering. The maintenance costs are where this vehicle truly shines - compared to newer rivals like the Ford Everest or Toyota Fortuner, you're looking at approximately 30-40% lower routine service expenses. Parts availability? Absolutely fantastic, especially here in Southeast Asia where every other mechanic knows these machines inside out.

Now, let's address the elephant in the room - the dated interior and lack of modern safety features. The infotainment system feels like something from a different era, and you won't find advanced driver assists that have become standard in newer vehicles. But here's my controversial take: sometimes simpler is better. Fewer electronics mean fewer things to break, and when you're driving through remote areas, that reliability becomes priceless. The suspension setup, while firm by today's standards, has this beautiful predictability that makes it fantastic for both city commuting and rough terrain. I've taken mine through mountain roads that would make newer SUVs complain, and it just handled everything without drama.

What really surprises me is the resale value holding stronger than expected. A well-maintained 2017-2018 model still commands around 65-70% of its original price in many markets. That's not just good - that's exceptional for a vehicle in this age bracket. The secret lies in its reputation for reliability and the loyal community that swears by these vehicles. I've met owners who've driven theirs across multiple countries, through floods, up mountains, and the common refrain is always "it just keeps going."

Looking at the competitive landscape in 2024, the Montero Sport occupies this unique niche - it's not the flashiest, not the most technologically advanced, but it's the dependable workhorse that won't let you down when you need it most. Much like that basketball team fighting for playoff positioning, the Montero Sport may not be the favorite, but it's still in the game with chances to prove itself. For buyers prioritizing proven reliability over cutting-edge features, for those who value substance over style, this aging warrior might just be the smartest SUV choice you can make today. Sometimes the best option isn't the newest or shiniest - it's the one that's been through battles and come out stronger.