Tested: 1995 Mitsubishi Montero SR Is One for Gadget Freaks

From the March 1995 issue of Car and Driver, this review takes a close look at the 1995 Mitsubishi Montero SR, an SUV packed with techno-wizardry. While other SUVs project images ranging from Gold’s Gym bodies to outdoor-chic gear, the Montero SR leans heavily into a tech-catalog aesthetic. Inside, the instrument cluster features gauges for four-wheel-drive mode, oil pressure, volts, an electronic compass, and an exterior-temperature display that replaces the old inclinometer. Buttons abound, from an imposing stereo panel with a digital display and graphic equalizer to extensive controls for power locks, mirrors, and a standard power sunroof. An optional package lets drivers adjust suspension damping to soft, medium, or hard, while another switch alters the four-speed automatic transmission response between normal, power, and hold modes. Space is generous, seating up to seven adults when the rear jump seats are folded down. The Montero towers ten inches above the Jeep Grand Cherokee, providing an exceptional view of the road and plenty of headroom. Under the hood is a high-revving 3.5-liter twin-cam 24-valve V-6 engine with an iron block and aluminum heads, pushing out 214 horsepower at 5000 rpm and 228 lb-ft of torque at 3000 rpm. Weighing in at 4714 pounds, it takes 10.5 seconds to reach 60 mph, 42.2 seconds to hit 100 mph, and completes the quarter-mile in 17.9 seconds at 76 mph. Top speed is drag-limited to 106 mph. The engine revs to a 7000-rpm redline and provides ready torque above 2000 rpm. The drivetrain features an Active Trac system with full-time four-wheel drive, shifting on the fly, and an optional locking rear differential alongside a standard three-channel anti-lock braking system. Towing capacity for 1995 increases by 1000 pounds to 5000 pounds. Minor complaints include sloppy on-center steering feel and an overly gadget-heavy layout. The base price starts at $35,322, while options like leather seats, wood trim, a CD changer, and chrome wheels push the as-tested price to $39,796.