Is Your 2014 Mitsubishi Montero Sport Worth Keeping? Here's What You Need to Know

When I first saw John’s 2014 Montero Sport parked outside his house with a "For Sale" sign, I have to admit—I was a little surprised. He’d owned it since new, kept up with maintenance, and always spoke fondly of its rugged charm. But then again, you couldn’t really blame John for doing that. After all, a decade is a long time to own any vehicle, and with newer models flaunting flashy tech and better fuel economy, it’s natural to wonder whether holding onto an older SUV like this still makes sense. As someone who’s spent years evaluating cars from both a practical and emotional standpoint, I believe the 2014 Mitsubishi Montero Sport sits in a fascinating spot—somewhere between "aging workhorse" and "underrated keeper." Let’s dive into what you should consider if you’re in John’s shoes, debating whether to let it go or stick with it a little longer.

From a reliability standpoint, the 2014 Montero Sport has proven itself as a fairly dependable companion, especially if you’ve kept up with routine care. The 2.5-liter diesel engine, while not the quietest or smoothest out there, is known for its durability. I’ve spoken with owners who’ve clocked over 200,000 kilometers with only minor issues—mostly things like alternator replacements or suspension bushings wearing out. That said, parts for older Mitsubishis aren’t always as easy to find as, say, Toyota equivalents, and repair costs can add up if you’re not proactive. I remember chatting with a mechanic friend who mentioned that a timing belt replacement alone could run you around $500 if done at a dealership, though independent shops might do it for less. Still, if your Montero has been trouble-free so far, there’s a good chance it’ll keep chugging along, provided you’re willing to invest in preventative maintenance. And let’s be honest—there’s something deeply satisfying about driving a vehicle that feels almost indestructible, even if it lacks the polish of newer SUVs.

On the topic of fuel efficiency, the numbers aren’t exactly stellar by today’s standards. The diesel variants average around 9-11 liters per 100 kilometers in mixed driving, which pales in comparison to modern turbo-diesel rivals that can dip below 7L/100km. If you do a lot of city driving, expect that figure to creep up toward 13L/100km or more. Gasoline models are even thirstier. Now, I’m not going to sugarcoat it—this is one area where the Montero Sport shows its age. But before you write it off, think about your actual usage. If you’re like me and only drive long distances occasionally, the difference in fuel costs might not be as dramatic as it seems on paper. Over a year, assuming 15,000 kilometers driven, you might spend an extra $300-$400 on fuel compared to a newer model. That’s not nothing, but it’s also not necessarily a deal-breaker if you value the Montero’s other qualities.

Where this SUV really shines, in my opinion, is off-road capability and sheer practicality. The four-wheel-drive system is straightforward but effective, and the ground clearance is more than enough for rough trails or flooded streets. I’ve taken one through muddy backroads during a camping trip, and it handled conditions that would leave many crossovers stranded. Inside, the cabin is spacious—though the materials feel dated, with plenty of hard plastics and an infotainment system that’s straight out of 2010. But here’s the thing: that simplicity can be a blessing. Fewer electronics mean fewer things to break, and the analog controls are easy to use while driving. If you’ve got a family or often haul gear, the generous cargo space and robust towing capacity (around 2,500 kg for the diesel) remain genuinely useful. Personally, I’d take functional and durable over fancy but fragile any day.

Of course, there are downsides. Safety features in the 2014 Montero Sport are basic—you get dual front airbags and ABS, but advanced driver aids like lane-keeping or autonomous emergency braking are absent. If safety is your top priority, this might give you pause. Then there’s the question of depreciation. A 2014 model in decent condition might fetch $12,000 to $16,000 on the used market today, depending on mileage and location. That’s not bad, but it’s also not a fortune. If you sell now, you’ll likely get enough for a down payment on something newer, but you’ll also take on monthly payments. Alternatively, keeping the Montero means avoiding car loans altogether, which—let’s face it—is a huge financial relief for many of us.

So, is your 2014 Mitsubishi Montero Sport worth keeping? I think it comes down to your priorities. If you crave modern tech, top-tier safety, and the best fuel economy, then upgrading makes sense. But if you value reliability, off-road ability, and avoiding debt, holding onto it could be the smarter move. In John’s case, he ended up selling—not because the Montero failed him, but because his needs changed. Me? I’d lean toward keeping it, at least for a couple more years. There’s a certain charm in these older, honest vehicles that newer models often lack. Plus, with the money you save, you could take that road trip you’ve been dreaming about. And really, isn’t that what owning a tough, capable SUV is all about?