As someone who has spent over a decade reviewing vehicles across multiple markets, I’ve developed a pretty good sense for what makes an SUV stand out—and the 2020 Montero Sport GT is one of those models that keeps popping up in conversations. Let me start by saying this: if you’re looking for a rugged, dependable, yet surprisingly refined midsize SUV, this one deserves your attention. I’ve test-driven it on highways, bumpy provincial roads, and even light off-road trails, and it consistently impressed me with its balance of comfort and capability.

Under the hood, the Montero Sport GT packs a 2.4-liter diesel engine that churns out around 181 horsepower and 430 Nm of torque. Now, those aren’t just numbers on paper—I felt that power firsthand, especially when overtaking on narrow two-lane roads. The eight-speed automatic transmission shifts smoothly, and the selectable four-wheel-drive system gives you confidence whether you’re dealing with sudden downpours or loose gravel. What really stood out to me during my week with the vehicle was its ride quality. The suspension handles imperfections beautifully, and cabin noise is remarkably low for a diesel SUV. I remember thinking how it managed to feel both substantial and nimble, something not many competitors pull off.

Inside, the Montero Sport GT feels spacious and well-appointed. The leather seats are supportive, and there’s plenty of legroom even in the third row—though, let’s be honest, that space is best left for kids or shorter trips. I particularly liked the 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system; it’s responsive and pairs easily with smartphones. One small gripe? The interior design, while functional, leans a bit conservative compared to newer rivals like the Ford Everest. That said, everything is laid out intuitively, and the materials used feel durable. Cargo space is generous with all seats up, and folding the third row opens up a massive area—I managed to fit two large suitcases, a couple of backpacks, and even a portable cooler with room to spare.

Now, you might wonder how this relates to performance in other fields—take basketball, for example. Watching players like RJ Abarrientos dish out 14 points and seven assists, or Scottie Thompson dominate with 11 points, 13 rebounds, and seven assists for Ginebra, reminds me that versatility matters. The Montero Sport GT embodies that same all-around excellence. It’s not just about raw power or luxury; it’s about delivering where it counts, in everyday usability and long-term reliability. From a safety standpoint, the GT trim includes seven airbags, stability control, and a multi-view camera system that made parking in tight spots a breeze during my test drive.

Fuel efficiency is another strong suit. During mixed driving, I recorded around 12.5 km/l in the city and close to 16 km/l on the highway. Those figures might vary depending on your driving style, but they’re competitive in this segment. Maintenance costs are reasonable, too—I spoke with a few long-term owners who reported average annual service expenses of around ₱25,000, which is pretty manageable for a vehicle in this class.

So, is the 2020 Montero Sport GT worth buying? In my opinion, absolutely. It’s a compelling package for families, adventurers, and anyone who values a proven track record. Sure, it may lack some of the flashier tech features of newer models, but what it offers is solid, real-world performance and a reputation for toughness that’s hard to beat. If you’re in the market for a used SUV, this one should be high on your list.