Depending on the model, the Montero Sport mid-size sport utility is equipped with one of two V6 engines.

* 3.0-Liter SOHC 24-Valve V6 -- Montero Sport ES/LS/XLS

Montero Sport ES, LS and XLS have a 24-valve, 3.0-liter single overhead camshaft (SOHC) V6 that is rated at 173 horsepower* at 5,250 rpm and 188 lbs-ft* of torque at 4,000 rpm.

Basic components of the 3.0-liter V6 include a cast iron block; cold-forged crankshaft; alloy heads; roller rocker arms; hydraulic valve lash adjusters; sequential multi-point fuel injection; and, a distributor-less 3-coil microprocessor-control led ignition system with knock sensor that allows the engine's computer to fine-tune performance according to fuel grade and immediate driving demands.

* 3.5-Liter SOHC 24-Valve V6 -- Montero Sport Limited

Montero Sport Limited has a 3.5-liter, single overhead camshaft (SOHC) 24-valve V6 engine that produces 200 horsepower at 5,000 RPM and 228 lb-ftt at 3,500 RPM. This engine was previously found exclusively in Mitsubishi Motors' larger, heavier Montero luxury SUV.

The V6 blocks are reinforced with a full-web girdle that supports the crankshaft and reduces vibration. A structural aluminum oil pan insulates against engine noise, strengthens the lower portion of the cylinder block and also provides a more stable foundation for attaching the transmission.

Long port intake runners improve the V6 engine's low-speed torque and responsiveness. The expanded intake runners give incoming air a chance to build up speed and rush into the cylinders during the intake stroke. Even the cooling fan reduces drag on the engine and provides much quieter operation, while a self diagnosing alternator can alert the driver to a malfunction long before vehicle performance is affected. Montero Sport V6's are also equipped with dual-mass crankshaft pulley damper that helps quiet and smooth the engine.

4-Speed Automatic Transmission

Standard for all on Montero Sport models, is a Mitsubishi Motors' designed-and-built 4-speed automatic transmission.

Similar to the technology found in the Galant mid-size sedans, Diamante luxury performance, and all-new Eclipse sports coupe, the Montero Sport automatic controls its shift pattern to match road conditions and the driver's style.

The automatic is equipped with "optimum shift control" to improve shift quality and be more responsive. The system factors in accelerator position, vehicle speed, brake application and road conditions to select the appropriate gear.

The transmission also has a 7-position lever which eliminates a separate overdrive switch, allowing the driver to select the gear of choice in a single action.

Montero Sports automatic transmission continues to feature a winter safety mode, engaged by switch on the dashboard. The winter safety mode locks out first gear from a standing start and has the vehicle pull away in second gear. The result is much slower and gentler acceleration for driving on snow-covered or icy roads.

Built on a fully boxed ladder frame, the Montero Sport shares its basic foundation and 107.3-inch wheelbase and front suspension design with the Montero luxury sport utility.

The front suspension has unequal-length double A-arms and long front torsion bars that reach well under the passenger compartment. By providing extra-long independent suspension travel, the tires are free to individually climb over rocks and ruts without compromising control or stability. Front and rear stabilizer bars keep the body steady when the vehicle is cornering.

For 2000, Montero Sport has a new 3-link coil-spring rear suspension that provides an even smoother ride.

Isolating the suspension from the frame, and the frame from the body, are sophisticated bushings and mounting brackets that allow the tires to react to rough pavement without transmitting road shock and noise to the cabin. The bushings are engineered to provide soft vertical and rearward compliance for an easy ride, while also offering firm lateral resistance for outstanding stability and directional control. The long wheelbase, as well as carefully tuned shock absorbers and spring rates, also help to reduce the choppy ride that afflicts many sport utility vehicles.

Steering for all models is provided by a power-assisted recirculating ball system that is specially designed to cope with the rigors of off-highway driving, rough roads, and high-profile, deep tread tires.

Brakes

Montero Sport's ABS operates in both 2-wheel and 4-wheel drive.settings. In rear drive, the 4-sensor system provides 3-channel actuation, braking the front wheels independently and the rear wheels as a pair. In 4-wheel drive, the ABS alters its behavior to provide braking performance that is better suited to extremely slippery or off-road conditions. The rear wheels and the front wheel on the side with the least grip braked simultaneously, while the front wheel with the better traction is braked independently.

Four-Wheel Drive

The Montero Sport 4-wheel drive system offers shift-on-the-fly convenience with free-wheel front hubs and a 2-speed transfer case that are all engaged by a console-mounted lever.

All Montero Sport models are equipped with engine and fuel tank skid plates, and 4WD models have a transfer case skid plate. Front and rear tow hooks are also fitted to all Montero Sports.

Limited Slip Differential

New for 2000, Montero Sport offers a limited slip differential for both 2WD and 4WD models. The limited slip differential is available as part of the premium package of XLS and is standard on Limited.

Refinement