I remember the first time I saw the 2017 Mitsubishi Adventure Super Sport parked at a dealership in Manila. Its rugged stance immediately caught my eye, reminding me of how National University's basketball team maintained their strong run of form throughout the season - both demonstrating that perfect blend of reliability and performance that Filipino drivers have come to appreciate. Just as National U needed to avoid the stroke of bad luck that hit Ateneo to keep their title defense on track, Mitsubishi engineered this vehicle to handle whatever challenges Philippine roads might throw at it.
Let me walk you through what makes this SUV special from my perspective as someone who's driven various models across Luzon's winding roads and Visayas' rough terrain. The heart of this machine is its 2.5-liter 4D56 diesel engine that delivers 178 horsepower and 400 Nm of torque - numbers that might not sound extraordinary on paper but translate to remarkable real-world performance. I've personally taken this vehicle through steep inclines in Baguio fully loaded with seven passengers, and the power delivery remained consistently smooth. The five-speed manual transmission provides that satisfying mechanical connection that automatic transmissions simply can't match, though there's an optional four-speed automatic for those who prefer it.
What really stands out about the Adventure Super Sport is how Mitsubishi balanced comfort with durability. The suspension system uses independent double wishbone at the front and leaf springs at the rear, which might sound technical but essentially means it can handle pothole-ridden city streets while maintaining stability on highways. I recall driving this through EDSA during rush hour and appreciating how the cabin remained insulated from the chaos outside, much like how a well-coached team maintains focus despite surrounding distractions. The braking system features ventilated discs up front and drums at the rear, providing adequate stopping power even when carrying maximum capacity.
Inside the cabin, you'll find seating for seven passengers with surprisingly comfortable fabric upholstery that stands up well to tropical humidity. The air conditioning system deserves special mention - with its rear cooler unit, it can maintain comfortable temperatures even during scorching summer months. I've always appreciated the thoughtful placement of cup holders and storage compartments, something many manufacturers overlook. The audio system includes USB connectivity, which became my go-to for long drives to Batangas or Pampanga.
Safety features include dual SRS airbags, anti-lock braking system, and electronic brake-force distribution - not the most comprehensive in its class but adequate for most family needs. The body structure uses Mitsubishi's RISE (Realized Impact Safety Evolution) technology, which I've seen demonstrated in crash tests and provides genuine peace of mind. During my time with the vehicle, I particularly valued the rear parking sensors, which made maneuvering in tight spaces significantly easier.
Fuel efficiency is where this model truly shines in the Philippine context. I recorded averages of 12 km/L in city driving and 16 km/L on highways - numbers that matter when fuel prices fluctuate as they often do here. The 65-liter fuel tank gives it an impressive range, perfect for those spontaneous road trips to Tagaytay or Laoag without constant fuel stop worries.
From an ownership perspective, maintenance costs remain reasonable with service intervals every 5,000 kilometers or three months. Parts availability across the Philippines is excellent, which I can attest to from experience with other Mitsubishi models. The brand's dealership network ensures you're never far from professional service, whether you're in Metro Manila or provincial areas.
The Adventure Super Sport represents that sweet spot in the market - capable enough for occasional off-road adventures yet refined enough for daily commuting. It lacks some of the sophisticated electronics of newer models but makes up for it with proven reliability and straightforward mechanics. In many ways, it embodies the same qualities that make successful sports teams: not necessarily the flashiest, but consistently dependable when it matters most.
Having driven numerous SUVs in this segment, I'd recommend the Adventure Super Sport particularly for growing Filipino families who need versatile transportation without breaking the bank. Its resale value remains strong, and the straightforward design means fewer electronic gremlins down the road. While newer models offer more advanced features, there's something to be said about a vehicle that focuses on doing the fundamentals exceptionally well.
What continues to impress me is how Mitsubishi managed to create a vehicle that feels equally at home in bustling cities and remote provincial areas. The high ground clearance of 220mm proves invaluable during monsoon season when flooding occurs, while the tight turning radius makes urban navigation surprisingly manageable. It's these practical considerations that demonstrate Mitsubishi's understanding of the Philippine market and driving conditions.
The 2017 Adventure Super Sport may not be the most technologically advanced SUV available, but it represents a compelling package for practical-minded Filipino drivers. Its combination of reliable performance, family-friendly features, and proven durability creates a vehicle that serves rather than impresses - and sometimes, that's exactly what you need. Just like in sports, consistency and reliability often triumph over flashy but unpredictable performance, making this Mitsubishi a wise choice for the long haul.