LOOK: The refreshed Mitsubishi Montero Sport

Publicity photo of the refreshed Montero Sport when Mitsubishi released the model in July.

THE updated version of the Mitsubishi Montero Sport, first introduced in Thailand in July, has made it to the Philippines.

Mitsubishi Motors Philippines Corp. on Friday launched two rear-wheel drive variants of the 2020 Montero Sport, the GLS and GT. The former costs P1.769 million, the latter P1.998 million. Mitsubishi said a four-wheel drive variant will follow in early 2020.

Both two-wheel drive variants are powered by a four-cylinder, 2.4-liter diesel engine that, with the help of a turbocharger and Mitsubishi’s MIVEC valve-timing system, makes 181hp and 430Nm. The engine bolt to an eight-speed automatic transmission.

Instantly marking out the latest Montero Sport is its new fascia, made up by the brand’s “Dynamic Shield” grille, LED headlamps and daytime running lights. The LED taillights and rear spoiler have also been redesigned. New 18-inch wheels and a shark-fin antenna, as well as the White Diamond paintjob, complete the makeover.

Some other items added to the Montero Sport are an eight-inch LCD instrument cluster that replaces traditional gauges, an eight-inch infotainment screen whose functions can be accessed and controlled via Android Auto and CarPlay, new climate control buttons, a power-adjustable driver’s seat, and a power tailgate with a height memory function. Also new is the Mitsubishi Remote Control, which through a smartphone app allows the Montero Sport to send notifications to its owner, and which can lock and unlock the doors via Bluetooth connection.

The new Montero Sport is now available in Mitsubishi dealerships.