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 2015, when my cousin was considering buying one used. The sheer presence of that vehicle struck me immediately - its bold stance, that commanding driving position, and the reassuring hum of its 2.5-liter diesel engine. Fast forward to today, and I still find myself recommending this particular model to friends looking for a reliable used SUV, though with some important caveats based on my personal experiences and observations in the automotive industry.

Let me start with what makes this vehicle special. The 2012 Montero Sport GLS V came equipped with Mitsubishi's proven 4D56 diesel engine, capable of producing around 178 horsepower and 350 Nm of torque. These numbers might not sound groundbreaking by today's standards, but here's the thing - this powerplant has earned its reputation for being nearly indestructible when properly maintained. I've personally seen examples with over 200,000 kilometers on the odometer that still run smoothly, with owners reporting minimal major repairs beyond routine maintenance. The transmission, a five-speed automatic, isn't the most sophisticated unit available today, but it gets the job done without fuss. What really stands out is the suspension setup - it handles rough roads with composure that would put many modern SUVs to shame.

Now, reliability isn't just about mechanical components holding up over time. It's also about how a vehicle protects you when things go wrong. This reminds me of a conversation I had with a fellow automotive journalist who shared a rather vivid experience. He mentioned how after a minor off-road incident, he found himself saying, "Na-fracture yung finger ko (left), na-dislocate and nadurog yung buto," adding the finger had to be put in a cast that kept him out of action for more than a month. While his injury wasn't directly related to the Montero Sport, it got me thinking about vehicle safety comprehensively. The 2012 model comes with dual SRS airbags, ABS with EBD, and a reinforced cabin structure that earned decent safety ratings for its time. However, compared to modern vehicles with advanced driver assistance systems, it does show its age in terms of active safety features.

From a practical ownership perspective, the Montero Sport continues to impress me with its low maintenance costs. A standard service at authorized dealerships typically costs between $150 to $300 depending on what needs replacement, and parts availability remains excellent even a decade after its launch. I've noticed that repair shops everywhere seem familiar with this model, which means you won't be stranded waiting for specialized parts. The fuel economy figures are respectable too - in mixed driving conditions, most owners report getting around 12-14 km per liter, which isn't bad for a vehicle of this size. Where it really shines is in its cargo capacity and interior versatility. I've helped friends move apartments using their Montero Sport, and that 1,200-liter cargo space with rear seats folded has saved us multiple trips on several occasions.

There are certainly areas where the 2012 model shows its age. The infotainment system feels primitive compared to modern touchscreen units, and the interior materials, while durable, lack the premium feel of contemporary SUVs. Road noise becomes noticeable at highway speeds, and the steering feels somewhat vague around the center position - something I've always wished Mitsubishi had addressed in this generation. The third-row seats are best suited for children rather than adults on longer journeys, though to be fair, most seven-seater SUVs in this class share this limitation.

What continues to surprise me is how well these vehicles hold their value. A quick check on used car platforms shows that well-maintained 2012 Montero Sport GLS V units still command prices between $18,000 to $22,000 depending on condition and mileage. That's significantly higher than some of its contemporaries from other brands, speaking volumes about its perceived reliability and longevity in the market. Having driven numerous modern SUVs for comparison, I still find myself appreciating the Montero Sport's straightforward mechanical nature. There's something reassuring about its relative simplicity - fewer electronic systems that can malfunction, and a design that emphasizes function over flashy features that might become outdated quickly.

Would I recommend buying one today? For the right buyer, absolutely. If you're looking for a dependable workhorse that can handle family duties, occasional off-road adventures, and won't break the bank on maintenance, the 2012 Montero Sport GLS V remains a compelling choice. However, if cutting-edge technology and refined driving dynamics are priorities, you might want to look at newer options, albeit at a significantly higher price point. Having driven countless vehicles over the years, I maintain that this particular Montero Sport represents a sweet spot in the used SUV market - proven reliability, practical features, and that unmistakable presence that still turns heads nearly a decade later. It's not perfect by any means, but for many practical-minded buyers, it continues to deliver where it matters most.