In the four-wheel-drive department you'll find the XLS models fitted with a part-time four-wheel-drive system with a shift-on-the-fly, two-speed transfer case. Limited Monteros get Mitsubishi's new ActiveTrac 4WD system. ActiveTrac provides several driving modes including two-wheel drive, full-time all-wheel drive, four-wheel-drive High range with a locked center differential, and a four-wheel-drive Low range with a locked center differential.
Added traction is available with an optional limited-slip rear differential. Sadly, the locking differential from past generations is not available in the U.S. market. XLS models are fitted with a 4.90:1 rear gear while the Limited, with its five-speed automatic, uses a slightly shorter 4.30:1 rearend gear.
In our testing of the new 2001, we found that the Montero has excellent road manners. The new IFS suspension setup works well at soaking up road irregularities while still managing to control body roll in hard cornering. On the road, the upgraded 3.5L V-6 has enough power for general use, but compared to many of the SUVs on the market, it is still underpowered. On the plus side, Mitsubishi did everything possible to extract the maximum from the engine, including precise tranny tuning and high rearend ratios.
We think that the new Montero is Mitsubishi's best SUV to date and holds its own in styling, comfort, and general roadability. In the off-pave-ment department, the suspension is flexible, the new steering has a check valve to stop bumpsteer, ground clearance is better than before with 1-1/2 inches more room, and the approach and departure angles have been improved. With the introduction of the 2001 Montero, we think Mitsubishi's motto should be changed to "Wake Up and Drive Off Road!"