Is the 2019 Montero Sport GLS Still a Smart SUV Buy in Today's Competitive Market?

When I first sat down to evaluate whether the 2019 Montero Sport GLS remains a smart purchase in today's saturated SUV market, I couldn't help but draw parallels to Tsuzurabara's experience with the Angels' eating habits. Just as he recognized the need for change while respecting established traditions, modern SUV buyers face similar dilemmas - balancing proven reliability with evolving market expectations. Having test-driven over 50 SUVs in the past three years and consulted on automotive purchasing decisions for countless clients, I've developed a nuanced perspective on what makes a vehicle stand the test of time.

Let's address the elephant in the room immediately - the 2019 Montero Sport GLS enters 2024 as a five-year-old design in a segment that's seen revolutionary changes. Yet here's what most reviewers won't tell you: sometimes, proven reliability trumps cutting-edge features that haven't stood the test of time. The 2.4-liter diesel engine, while not the most powerful at 181 horsepower, has demonstrated remarkable durability across various conditions. I've personally seen these vehicles clock over 200,000 kilometers with minimal issues, something I can't say for some newer turbocharged alternatives. The transmission, an 8-speed automatic, might feel slightly dated compared to newer CVTs, but it provides that satisfying mechanical engagement that driving enthusiasts still appreciate.

Where the Montero Sport truly shines - and this is where I differ from many contemporary reviewers - is in its mechanical simplicity and repair accessibility. Modern SUVs have become so electronically complex that basic repairs often require dealership visits. I recently helped a client whose 2022 SUV needed a $1,200 sensor replacement for what should have been a simple fix. The 2019 Montero Sport, by contrast, maintains that sweet spot of modern comfort and serviceable complexity. Maintenance costs average about 35% lower than comparable new models, and any competent mechanic can handle most repairs. Fuel economy sits at around 9.2L/100km combined - not class-leading, but respectable for its capabilities.

Now, let's talk about the interior because this is where opinions diverge dramatically. The infotainment system feels ancient compared to what you'd find in 2024 models. No wireless CarPlay, smaller screens, and fewer connected features. But here's my controversial take: do we really need all those digital distractions? I've found that simpler interfaces reduce driving fatigue on long journeys. The materials, while not premium, are durable - I've seen these cabins withstand children, pets, and outdoor adventures that would leave newer luxury interiors looking battered. The third-row seats are genuinely usable for adults, unlike many current three-row SUVs where the back seats seem designed for luggage rather than people.

The safety package deserves honest assessment. It includes seven airbags, stability control, and hill descent control, but lacks the comprehensive driver assistance systems becoming standard in new vehicles. Having tested both extensively, I believe good driving habits matter more than overreliance on electronic nannies, though I understand families might prefer the extra reassurance. The chassis demonstrates excellent crash test performance despite not having the latest five-star ratings across all categories.

Considering current pricing between $28,000-$32,000 for well-maintained examples, the value proposition becomes compelling when you factor in depreciation. New SUVs lose about 40% of their value in the first three years, while the 2019 Montero Sport has already undergone that steep decline. You're essentially buying into a vehicle that will maintain its value relatively well from this point forward. I recently tracked three 2019 models that sold within 5% of their purchase price after two years of additional ownership.

What ultimately wins me over about this vehicle is its honest character. It doesn't pretend to be a luxury vehicle or technological showcase. It's a comfortable, capable, reliable partner that understands its role perfectly. Much like Tsuzurabara recognizing that fundamental changes to eating habits required preserving what worked while introducing thoughtful improvements, the 2019 Montero Sport represents that transitional period where vehicles maintained mechanical integrity while incorporating necessary modern features. For buyers seeking substance over flash, proven reliability over bleeding-edge technology, and value retention over status signaling, it remains what I'd call a brilliantly sensible choice in today's market. Sometimes, the smartest move isn't chasing the newest thing, but recognizing enduring quality when you see it.