2001 Mitsubishi Montero Sport 3.5XS
20 September 2000
2001 Mitsubishi Montero Sport 3.5XSNew Model Puts 3.5-Liter Performance and Distinctive Looks Within the Reach of More Buyers CYPRESS, Calif., Sept. 20 Mitsubishi Motors introduces the new Montero Sport 3.5XS that includes exclusive features, a distinctive look and a powerful 3.5-liter V6 engine in an affordable package. These unique elements combine to create a superb on- and off-road vehicle that places as much emphasis on "Sport" as it does on "Utility." The Montero Sport 3.5XS appeals to SUV buyers looking for a combination of stylish, sporty design and powerful performance. These buyers may not desire the luxury features of the 3.5-liter Montero Sport Limited, but want more aggressive style, performance and horsepower than the best-selling 3.0-liter Montero Sport LS model. The Montero Sport 3.5XS is designed to open up a new segment of youthful buyers to the Mitsubishi brand who may not have considered a Montero Sport in the past. Mitsubishi Motors' engineers began with the rugged Montero Sport as a base and added the larger, 3.5-liter V6 to the all-new 3.5XS. Previously available only on the seven-passenger Montero luxury SUV and the premium Montero Sport Limited model, this engine produces 197 horsepower with 223 lbs-ft of torque at a low 3,500 rpm. Available as either a 2WD or 4WD model, the 3.5XS also incorporates unique exterior and interior features that pronounce its sporty performance personality. Starting with the exterior, the 3.5XS will be available exclusively in Solano Black or Phoenix Red, each accented with matte black fender flares, side steps and body molding. A matte black grille, headlight bezel and roof rails complete the coordinated "sports" look. Front projection beam-style fog lights, 16-inch machined aluminum alloy wheels and exclusive "3.5XS" badging add to the distinctive looks of this new addition to the Montero Sport product line. On the inside, the 3.5XS features an exclusive combination of Slate Gray sports fabric interior, titanium-colored dashboard panel and door trim, along with a leather-wrapped steering wheel, shift- and parking brake-levers. These high-grade items are in addition to such standard equipment as air conditioning, power windows, door locks and mirrors, AM/FM stereo CD with 6 speakers, rear cargo tie-down hooks and three 12-volt outlets for accessories. The 60/40 split-folding rear seat with a center armrest and two cupholders folds completely for additional cargo capacity, and also reclines for passenger comfort. Like its ES, LS, XLS and Limited siblings, the Montero Sport 3.5XS features a 3-link rear coil spring suspension, providing comfort and stability on or off the road. A 4-speed automatic transmission is also standard equipment and incorporates Mitsubishi's Adaptive Shift Control system that improves shift quality and responsiveness during varying engine speeds and driving situations. As with all 2001 Montero Sport models, the 3.5XS also features improvements which benefit the occupants and the environment. All-new structural enhancements are designed to help deflect the force of an offset crash away from the vehicle's occupants. Also added are a driver's seat belt pretensioner and a rear Lower Anchor and Tethers for Children (LATCH) child safety seat system. Environmental friendliness is emphasized by Low Emission Vehicle (LEV) exhaust levels for vehicles sold in all 50-states along with an on-board fuel vapor recovery system. The 2001 Mitsubishi Montero Sport 3.5XS is priced at $26,637 for the 2WD and $28,667 for the 4WD.