Discover the Top 10 Features of the 2017 Mitsubishi Adventure Super Sport

Having spent over a decade test-driving and reviewing vehicles across Southeast Asia, I've developed a particular appreciation for workhorses that manage to combine rugged reliability with surprising refinements. When Mitsubishi launched the 2017 Adventure Super Sport, I'll admit I was skeptical—could what's essentially a utilitarian people-carrier really justify the "Super Sport" designation? After putting several thousand kilometers on one across various Philippine road conditions, I'm here to share what makes this model stand out, much like how National University's basketball team needs to maintain their strategic discipline to overcome unexpected setbacks.

Let me start with what truly impressed me—the powertrain. The 2017 Adventure Super Sport came equipped with a 2.5-liter 4D56 diesel engine that delivered 100 horsepower and 200 Nm of torque. Now, those numbers might not sound spectacular compared to modern SUVs, but where this engine shines is in its incredible durability and fuel efficiency. I consistently achieved around 14-15 km/L in mixed driving conditions, which for a vehicle this size is genuinely impressive. The five-speed manual transmission had this satisfyingly precise throw between gears that made driving through mountain roads surprisingly engaging. It's the kind of reliable performance that reminds me of how consistent execution—whether in vehicles or sports teams—creates foundations for success even when flashier options grab attention.

What really surprised me was how Mitsubishi managed to balance utilitarian roots with genuine comfort features. The seats—oh, those seats—featured premium fabric with much better bolstering than I expected, making six-hour drives between provinces remarkably fatigue-free. The air conditioning system deserves special mention too, with its rear cooler that actually keeps third-row passengers comfortable in the brutal Philippine heat. I remember driving through Nueva Ecija during peak summer, outside temperatures hitting 38°C, yet everyone in the vehicle remained comfortable. These thoughtful touches demonstrate how understanding real-world usage separates adequate vehicles from truly well-executed ones.

The interior packaging represents one of the Adventure's strongest suits. With seating for seven adults and clever storage solutions throughout, it's designed for extended family use. I particularly appreciated the multiple cup holders and the 15-liter cooled glove box that proved perfect for keeping drinks cold during long trips. The audio system, while not premium brand, delivered surprisingly clear sound with its six speakers—enough to keep passengers entertained without distracting the driver. These practical considerations create an ownership experience that grows on you over time, much like how consistent team performance builds championship credentials through attention to fundamental details.

Now about that "Super Sport" badge—does it actually translate to sporty driving? Well, not in the traditional sense, but the upgraded suspension with front stabilizer bar does reduce body roll noticeably compared to standard Adventures. The steering maintains that characteristic Mitsubishi weightiness I've always appreciated, providing decent feedback without being overly heavy at low speeds. During an extended drive through Baguio's winding roads, I found myself enjoying the driving dynamics more than I anticipated. It handles predictably, communicates clearly through the steering wheel, and inspires confidence when carrying speed through corners. This isn't a sports car, but it's certainly more engaging than most vehicles in its category.

Safety features often get overlooked in this segment, but the Adventure Super Sport included dual SRS airbags, anti-lock brakes, and reinforced impact safety evolution body structure. While I never had to test the airbags (thankfully), the brakes proved consistently reliable during sudden Manila downpours where visibility drops to near-zero and standing water creates hydroplaning risks. The high driving position provides excellent forward visibility too, giving you that commanding view of the road that makes navigating chaotic city traffic significantly less stressful.

Exterior styling walks a fine line between rugged and refined, with the Super Sport package adding color-keyed bumpers, fog lamps, and those distinctive 16-inch alloy wheels that fill out the wheel wells nicely. The design has aged remarkably well—when I see a well-maintained example on the road today, it still looks contemporary rather than dated. That's something I can't say about many vehicles from the same period. The 2,800 mm wheelbase contributes to both interior space and stable highway manners, while the 220 mm ground clearance handles rough roads without making entry and exit difficult.

Ownership costs represent where the Adventure truly shines. Maintenance is straightforward and affordable, with service intervals every 5,000 kilometers and parts availability that's excellent even in provincial areas. During my time with the vehicle, routine maintenance averaged around ₱3,500-₱5,000 per service, which is considerably lower than many modern SUVs. This accessibility reminds me of how practical solutions often outperform theoretically superior but complicated alternatives—similar to how fundamental basketball plays executed consistently can overcome more spectacular but unreliable strategies.

After extensive time with the 2017 Mitsubishi Adventure Super Sport, I've come to appreciate it as more than the sum of its specifications. It's a vehicle that understands its purpose completely and executes that purpose with remarkable competence. While it may not excel in any single category by modern standards, its overall package—rugged reliability, thoughtful features, and outstanding value—creates an ownership experience that's genuinely satisfying. Just as teams need to maintain their strategic discipline through challenges, the Adventure focuses on doing the important things well rather than chasing trends. For families needing dependable transportation that can handle both daily commutes and provincial adventures, this vehicle represents one of the smartest choices in its class—a verdict that has only strengthened with time as I've watched these vehicles rack up impressive mileages with minimal drama.