Hindustan Motors, Mitshubishi launch upgraded Montero

25 March 2009

Furthering their tie-up, Hindustan Motors Ltd and Japan's Mitsubishi Motors launched their premium sports utility vehicle, the Montero 09, on Wednesday. The Montero is a proven winner among buyers as well as on the rally circuit – it has won the prestigious Dakar rally for an unprecedented 12 times.

The Indian version was launched by HML managing director R Santhanam, managing director of Hindustan Motors, along with various company officials. It coincided with the inauguration of HM-Mitsubishi's second wholly-owned showroom, 'Autodrome', at the Atria Mall in Mumbai's Worli district.

Santhanam said at the launch, "Mumbai has been one of our fastest-growing markets over the past few years. Bringing Mitsubishi Motor's to Worli is a logical response to that development. In order to build a sustainable, successful business, you have to be present in a market. It is important that we remain committed to our expansion plans."

The Montero '09 incorporates Mitsubishi Motors' key retail-design elements. It also boasts a new chrome-plated front grill and seven-spoke 17-inch light alloy wheels, enhancing its sporty appeal. It is fitted with Yokahama tubeless radial tyres, enabling it to handle tough road and off-road conditions.

The Montero '09 is available in both automatic as well as manual transmission versions. It has six colour choices, and with a further choice of beige leather or black leather interiors. The manual transmission version is available only in two colours, but the automatic one has a greater choice of colours and interiors.

It was announced at the inaugural that following HM-Mitsubishi's policy of 'one country, one price' both manual and automatic editions have been priced at Rs4194 lakh ex-showroom. The vehicle is imported as completely built unit from Japan.