1999 Mitsubishi Montero XLS review from North America

The front suspension continues to have issues. There are many strange klunks, grinds and clanks out of the front of the car that sound like steel under stress being relieved. I have taken to several mechanics however and they all say there doesn't appear to be anything wrong although they acknowledge the noises when test driving.

There has been no major mechanical failures with my SUV.

This is a reliable vehicle that has not needed major work at all for 90k miles which is a major relief because my other car is a Saab.

The Montero handles like a dream in the snow. I am amazed how this SUV cuts through +12" snow falls with no hesitation at all. In fact, Minneapolis had just got 15" the night I purchased the Montero and it was hands down the winner when compared to the other 2 SUVs I was considering.

The cabin is a little cramped, but it is comfortable for an average size person and for kids in the back seat. It will haul smaller loads in the trunk compartment, but larger items like TVs, plywood, etc will not fit. The cockpit controls are simple and easy to use.

The largest short coming of this vehicle is its acceleration. Mitsubishi definitely should have considered a larger motor or a turbo diesel. As is, it's down right rotten. Merging on freeways is difficult, and navigating past slower traffic is almost impossible.