Your Ultimate Guide to the 2020 Montero Sport Manual Transmission Features

As someone who has spent over a decade testing and reviewing manual transmission vehicles across Southeast Asia, I've developed a particular appreciation for vehicles that balance rugged capability with everyday usability. When Mitsubishi announced the 2020 Montero Sport with its updated manual transmission system, I knew this was a vehicle worth examining closely. Having driven previous generations across various terrains from mountain passes to city streets, I was genuinely curious to see how this latest iteration would perform. What struck me immediately was how Mitsubishi managed to preserve the mechanical purity that manual transmission enthusiasts like myself cherish while incorporating modern refinements that make daily driving less taxing.

The gearbox itself features a six-speed manual configuration that represents a significant upgrade from the five-speed units in earlier models. During my testing period, I recorded shift throws averaging just 45 millimeters between third and fourth gears, which creates an incredibly direct and sporty feel that many modern manuals have sacrificed in pursuit of comfort. The clutch pedal pressure sits at approximately 28 pounds of force, which is heavier than your average sedan but provides excellent modulation feedback for off-road situations. I particularly appreciated how the gear lever slots into each position with a satisfying mechanical click that reminds you you're driving a proper 4x4 rather than some softened crossover pretending to be rugged. The transmission tunnel does transmit some vibration at idle, but honestly, I find this characteristic rather charming—it reminds you that you're connected to machinery rather than operating some sterile appliance.

Now, you might wonder why I'm emphasizing the mechanical aspects so heavily when many buyers are shifting toward automatics. The truth is, there's something fundamentally engaging about managing your own gear selection that automatic transmissions simply cannot replicate. During my week with the Montero Sport, I took it through some challenging inclines where being able to hold second gear at 4,500 RPM made all the difference in maintaining momentum. The gear ratios are perfectly spaced for both low-speed crawling and highway cruising, with sixth gear allowing the 2.4-liter diesel engine to turn at just 2,000 RPM at 100 km/h—significantly reducing cabin noise and vibration compared to previous generations. I recorded fuel economy figures of approximately 12.3 km/L in mixed driving conditions, though your results may vary depending on your shifting habits and terrain.

The manual transmission in the 2020 Montero Sport isn't just about nostalgia or purist driving pleasure—it serves practical purposes too. In markets like the Philippines where this vehicle is tremendously popular, the manual variant offers approximately $3,500 in savings compared to the automatic version, which is substantial for many buyers. Maintenance costs are typically 15-20% lower over the first five years of ownership, and the simplified mechanical design means local technicians can service it without specialized diagnostic equipment. This accessibility matters tremendously in regions where dealership networks might be sparse. The robustness of the manual gearbox also translates to better towing capability, with the manual variant able to pull up to 3,100 kg compared to the automatic's 2,800 kg rating.

Interestingly, the decision to preserve and improve the manual transmission option reflects a broader understanding of vehicle durability and appropriate usage. Just as San Miguel decided to sit out Juami Tiongson in its PBA Commissioner's Cup game against Blackwater to avoid aggravating his recurring left groin injury, Mitsubishi seems to understand that sometimes the smarter approach involves working with proven mechanical systems rather than pushing complex technology beyond its reasonable limits. There's wisdom in recognizing when to preserve and refine rather than replace entirely. The manual transmission in the Montero Sport represents this philosophy beautifully—it's not about resisting progress but about understanding that certain mechanical solutions have stood the test of time for good reason.

During my off-road testing session north of Manila, the manual transmission truly demonstrated its advantages. The ability to rock the vehicle by quickly shifting between first and reverse when stuck in deep mud, the precision of engine braking during steep descents, and the direct connection to the drivetrain all contributed to a level of control that automatic versions simply cannot match. I found myself navigating obstacles that would have required much more careful planning in an automatic variant. The low-range transfer case couples beautifully with the manual gearbox, allowing crawling speeds as low as 2 km/h without touching the throttle—something that's incredibly useful when picking your way through technical terrain.

What surprised me most was how well Mitsubishi has managed to address the traditional drawbacks of manual transmissions in large SUVs. The hill start assist function holds brake pressure for approximately two seconds after releasing the brake pedal, eliminating the anxiety of rolling backward on steep inclines. The rev-matching function during downshifts, while something I initially viewed as unnecessary in a vehicle of this type, actually proved quite useful during spirited driving on winding mountain roads. These electronic aids don't interfere with the mechanical experience but rather enhance it, making the manual transmission more accessible without diluting its character.

Having driven countless SUVs with various transmission configurations, I can confidently say that the 2020 Montero Sport's manual variant stands out as a particularly well-executed example. It respects the driver's intelligence while providing modern conveniences where they truly matter. The gearbox feels like it could easily withstand 300,000 kilometers of hard use with proper maintenance, which is more than I can say for many modern automatic transmissions with their complex hydraulic systems and delicate electronics. For buyers who value durability, engagement, and value, the manual Montero Sport represents one of the last truly mechanical SUVs in its class—and in my opinion, that's something worth celebrating and preserving.