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2001 Mitsubishi Montero Sport 3.5XS

20 September 2000

2001 Mitsubishi Montero Sport 3.5XS
          New 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.