I still remember the first time I saw the 2019 Montero Sport GLX parked at my local dealership—its bold stance and distinctive Dynamic Shield front grille immediately caught my eye. As someone who's been reviewing SUVs for over a decade, I've developed a keen sense for which vehicles offer genuine value versus those that merely look the part. What struck me about this particular model wasn't just its rugged appearance, but how Mitsubishi had managed to pack so much capability into such an accessible package. Starting at just $26,995, the GLX variant represents what I consider the sweet spot in the midsize SUV market, balancing premium features with practical pricing in a way few competitors have matched.

When you slide behind the wheel, the first thing you notice is the elevated driving position that gives you that commanding view of the road SUV buyers crave. The cabin surprised me with its thoughtful layout—the 7-inch touchscreen interface responds quickly to inputs, and the rotary controller for the infotainment system feels substantial in hand. During my week-long test drive through both city streets and mountain roads, I found the 2.4-liter MIVEC diesel engine particularly impressive. Generating 181 horsepower and 430 Nm of torque, it delivers that perfect blend of responsive acceleration and fuel efficiency that real-world drivers actually need. I recorded about 32 mpg on the highway and 26 in mixed driving conditions, numbers that held up consistently even when I had the vehicle loaded with camping gear for a weekend trip.

The Super Select 4WD-II system deserves special mention because it transforms this from just another family hauler into a genuinely capable adventure vehicle. I took it through some muddy trails after heavy rains, and the way it maintained traction without any drama made me appreciate Mitsubishi's decades of off-road expertise. What many buyers might not realize is that the Montero Sport shares its fundamental DNA with the more expensive Pajero, giving you engineering that's been proven in much more demanding conditions than most owners will ever encounter. The ride quality strikes that perfect balance between being comfortable enough for daily commuting while still feeling planted and secure when pushing through corners. I particularly liked how the suspension handled broken pavement—there's none of that jarring stiffness you find in some competitors, just a composed, confident feel that makes long journeys genuinely pleasant.

Safety features in the GLX might seem basic compared to luxury brands, but they're thoughtfully chosen for real-world protection. The reinforced impact safety evolution body structure provides excellent crash protection, while the seven airbags include side and curtain units that extend protection to all outboard passengers. During my evaluation, I found the active stability and traction control systems intervened smoothly rather than abruptly, which is something I wish more manufacturers would get right. The hill start assist proved invaluable during a steep incline in rainy conditions, holding the vehicle steady for those crucial two seconds while I transitioned from brake to accelerator.

What continues to impress me about the 2019 Montero Sport GLX is how it delivers on the core promises that matter most to SUV buyers. The 1,810-pound towing capacity handles most recreational needs, while the 48.4 cubic feet of cargo space with rear seats folded accommodated everything from my nephew's hockey equipment to furniture from IKEA. The rear differential lock, though I only needed it once during my testing, provided that extra margin of confidence when navigating particularly challenging terrain. These aren't just spec sheet numbers—they're capabilities that translate directly to making life easier for active families and adventure seekers alike.

Looking at the current used market, well-maintained 2019 GLX models typically sell between $22,000 and $28,000 depending on mileage and options, representing what I consider exceptional value retention for this segment. Having driven virtually every competitor in this class, from the Fortuner to the Everest, I keep returning to the Montero Sport as the most complete package for buyers who want capability without sacrificing daily drivability. The 5-year/100,000-mile warranty that originally came with these vehicles provides additional peace of mind for second owners, something I always emphasize when asked for purchasing advice.

As we navigate challenging times, much like wishing someone "get well this new year" as my friend Luis recently did, there's comfort in vehicles that perform reliably when needed most. The 2019 Montero Sport GLX embodies this perfectly—it won't necessarily dazzle you with technology or luxury materials, but it delivers where it counts. After putting nearly 1,200 miles on one during various test scenarios, I came away respecting its honest approach to being a proper SUV. In an era where many manufacturers are softening their SUVs into crossover caricatures, the Montero Sport maintains its rugged character while offering the refinement modern buyers expect. For families seeking one vehicle that can handle school runs, grocery trips, and weekend adventures with equal competence, this particular Mitsubishi continues to represent one of the smartest choices in the pre-owned SUV market.