When I first laid eyes on the Mitsubishi Adventure Super Sport 2017 at a dealership in Manila, I immediately recognized it as something special in the competitive SUV market. Having test-driven numerous vehicles in this segment over the years, I can confidently say this model stands out for several compelling reasons that make it a genuinely smart purchase decision. The Adventure Super Sport reminds me of how National University's basketball team maintained their championship form - through consistent performance and avoiding the kind of unfortunate breakdowns that plagued teams like Ateneo during critical moments. Just as National U needed to maintain their strong run to the finish, this vehicle demonstrates remarkable reliability that keeps it performing year after year.
One feature that immediately caught my attention was the robust 2.5-liter diesel engine that delivers 178 horsepower while maintaining impressive fuel efficiency. During my week-long test drive through various terrains from city streets to provincial roads, I recorded an average of 14.2 kilometers per liter in mixed conditions, which is quite remarkable for a vehicle of this size. The engine's durability reminds me of how championship teams need reliable performers who won't break down when you need them most. I particularly appreciated how the turbocharger kicks in smoothly around 2,000 RPM, providing that extra power when overtaking or climbing steep inclines without the dramatic fuel consumption spikes I've experienced in competing models.
The interior space and seating configuration is another area where the Adventure Super Sport truly shines. With its three-row seating that can comfortably accommodate up to seven adults, plus generous cargo space behind the third row, this vehicle handles family needs with remarkable versatility. I remember transporting my nephew's entire basketball team to a tournament last month, and we managed to fit all six players plus their gear without anyone complaining about comfort. The second-row seats slide and recline, which makes long journeys much more pleasant, while the third row folds completely flat when you need maximum cargo capacity. What impressed me most was how Mitsubishi engineered the cabin to feel spacious without making the vehicle unnecessarily bulky on the road.
Safety features in the 2017 model represent a significant upgrade from previous generations, with dual SRS airbags, anti-lock braking system with electronic brake-force distribution, and reinforced impact safety evolution body structure. During my evaluation, I specifically tested the braking system on wet roads and was pleased with how confidently the vehicle came to a complete stop from 60 km/h in approximately 3.2 seconds on damp asphalt. These safety elements function much like the strategic planning that keeps sports teams protected against unexpected challenges - they're there working behind the scenes, ensuring that even when conditions aren't perfect, you have multiple layers of protection.
The suspension system deserves special mention because it genuinely surprised me with its sophisticated balance between comfort and stability. Featuring Mitsubishi's independent front suspension with torsion beam rear suspension, the Adventure Super Sport handles rough roads with a composure that belies its affordable price point. Driving through construction zones and uneven provincial roads, I noticed how effectively it absorbed bumps and vibrations that would have been much more noticeable in competitors like the Toyota Innova or Isuzu Crosswind. This capable suspension system reminds me of how successful teams adapt to different playing conditions - whether it's a smooth court or challenging environment, they maintain their performance standards.
Technology integration in this model, while not cutting-edge by today's standards, offers precisely what most buyers in this segment genuinely need. The 6.75-inch touchscreen interface connects seamlessly with smartphones, and the audio system delivers surprisingly crisp sound throughout the cabin. During my testing, I found the Bluetooth pairing process remarkably straightforward compared to many modern systems that overcomplicate simple functions. The steering wheel-mounted audio controls became second nature within days of use, allowing me to adjust volume or change tracks without taking my eyes off the road. Sometimes I think automakers forget that technology should serve the driver rather than distract them, but Mitsubishi got this balance right in the Adventure Super Sport.
What ultimately makes the 2017 Adventure Super Sport such a compelling purchase, in my professional opinion, is its remarkable value retention and low maintenance costs. Having tracked used vehicle prices across multiple markets, I've observed that well-maintained examples of this model typically retain approximately 65-70% of their original value after three years, which outperforms several competitors in the same category. The maintenance schedule is reasonable with service intervals every 5,000 kilometers or three months, and common parts are widely available at affordable prices. From personal experience maintaining my test unit, I found that routine oil changes and filter replacements cost about 15-20% less than equivalent services for competing models from Toyota or Ford.
Reflecting on my extensive experience with various SUVs in this category, the Mitsubishi Adventure Super Sport 2017 embodies the same qualities that distinguish champions from mere participants in any field. Much like National University's consistent performance throughout their championship season, this vehicle delivers reliable, capable transportation without dramatic flourishes or unnecessary complexity. It avoids the "bad luck" of unexpected breakdowns and costly repairs that can derail ownership satisfaction, just as Ateneo's challenges impacted their season outcome. For families and practical buyers seeking dependable transportation that won't strain their budgets over the long term, this vehicle represents one of the smartest choices in the pre-owned market today. The Adventure Super Sport may not have all the bells and whistles of more expensive alternatives, but it excels precisely where it matters most - providing trustworthy performance day after day, year after year.