Is the 2015 Montero Sport GLX Still a Reliable SUV Choice in 2024?

Let me be honest with you—when I first saw a 2015 Montero Sport GLX still cruising around Manila last week, I couldn’t help but smile. It’s been nearly a decade since this SUV first hit the streets, and yet here it is, still turning heads and carrying families, professionals, and even the occasional weekend adventurer. But the real question nags at me, especially as we roll deeper into 2024: Is the 2015 Montero Sport GLX still a smart, reliable choice today? I’ve driven this model, spoken with owners, and dug into maintenance records, and I’m convinced the answer isn’t just a simple yes or no—it’s a story of endurance, value, and a few trade-offs.

I remember test-driving one back in 2016, and what struck me then was its commanding presence. The Montero Sport has always had that tough, almost rugged charm—a design that hasn’t aged as quickly as some of its competitors. Fast forward to today, and I still see that same bold grille and high ground clearance making their way through EDSA traffic or parked outside a provincial resort. But looks only go so far. Under the hood, the 2015 GLX packs a 2.5-liter diesel engine that, in my experience, delivers around 178 horsepower and 350 Nm of torque. Now, those aren’t groundbreaking numbers by 2024 standards, but here’s the thing: this engine is known for its durability. I’ve met owners who’ve clocked over 150,000 kilometers with only routine maintenance, and the powertrain still hums along without major issues. Of course, diesel engines can be noisy at low speeds—I won’t sugarcoat that—but once you’re on the highway, it settles into a comfortable, efficient cruise. Fuel economy? In mixed conditions, I’ve seen figures around 12-14 km/l, which, let’s be honest, is pretty decent for an SUV this size.

Now, reliability isn’t just about how an SUV performs on day one—it’s about how it holds up over time. And this is where the Montero Sport really shines, in my opinion. Take, for example, a story that feels oddly relevant here. Just the other day, I came across a local news snippet where San Miguel Beermen’s June Mar Fajardo mentioned, “Yung calf ko, may ultrasound ako bukas (Thursday),” after a tough loss. It got me thinking: just like an athlete relying on diagnostics to stay in top shape, the Montero Sport benefits hugely from regular check-ups. I’ve spoken with mechanics who swear by its straightforward mechanical layout—no overly complex electronics that can spiral into expensive repairs. Common wear items like brake pads and shocks might need replacing by now if you’re buying used, but parts are plentiful and relatively affordable. In my own circle, a friend owns a 2015 GLX with 120,000 km on the odometer, and aside from the usual suspension refresh around the 90,000 km mark, it’s been trouble-free. That said, I’d be cautious with earlier models; some had reports of minor transmission hesitations, though Mitsubishi addressed many of those through recalls and software updates.

But let’s talk about the interior and daily usability, because this is where personal bias might creep in—I’ve always preferred functional over flashy. The 2015 Montero Sport GLX isn’t going to wow you with a giant infotainment screen or premium leather everywhere. Instead, you get a no-nonsense cabin with durable plastics, comfortable cloth seats, and controls that are easy to reach. I love that simplicity; it means fewer things to break down over time. Space-wise, it seats seven comfortably, though the third row is best for kids or shorter trips. On rough roads, the suspension does a respectable job soaking up bumps, though it can feel a bit firm compared to newer SUVs with adaptive dampers. And safety? It comes with dual airbags, ABS, and stability control—adequate for its era, but if you’re comparing it to 2024 models with lane-keep assist and automatic emergency braking, it’s clearly behind. Still, for most Filipino families, it covers the basics well.

What about cost of ownership? Here’s where the 2015 GLX really stands out in my view. A quick search shows well-maintained units priced between ₱600,000 to ₱800,000, depending on mileage and condition. That’s a steal when you consider that a brand-new equivalent might set you back over ₱1.5 million. Insurance is generally affordable—I’ve heard figures around ₱15,000 annually for comprehensive coverage—and maintenance costs average ₱8,000 to ₱12,000 per year for routine services. Of course, this assumes you’re not dealing with major repairs, but from what I’ve seen, the Montero Sport’s reliability curve remains fairly flat if you stick to the service schedule. One owner I chatted with at a car meet last month joked that his GLX has outlasted two of his smartphones—a testament to its build quality.

So, circling back to the big question: Is the 2015 Montero Sport GLX still a reliable SUV choice in 2024? From where I stand, absolutely—with a few caveats. It’s not the most high-tech or refined option out there, and if you prioritize the latest safety gadgets or a whisper-quiet ride, you might want to look elsewhere. But for someone seeking a dependable, capable, and affordable workhorse, this SUV has earned its stripes. It reminds me of that ultrasound mention earlier—sometimes, you don’t need flashy tech to prove something is solid; you just need a history of performance and a design built to last. If I were in the market for a used SUV today, the Montero Sport GLX would easily make my shortlist. It’s a vehicle that, much like a trusted old friend, might not surprise you with new tricks, but it’ll always have your back when you hit the road.