Side airbags are now standard for both the XLS and Limited. It can also be removed to further increase space. One thing we weren't overly fond of in the last Montero was the gauge layout. Mitsubishi improved this, making the buttons more logical. The location of the giant sunroof is better, too, as it is now closer to the front passengers.
Materials used are still average.
There's also an optional automatic climate control system for the Limited. Mitsubishi expects most of the Monteros sold to be Limited models. 2001 Monteros in dealerships midway through 2000. So, this SUV could be a sure winner if only it had an optional V8. Despite its newly muscular flanks, other SUVs can still kick sand in the Montero's face.