Is the 2017 Mitsubishi Adventure Super Sport the Ultimate Family SUV for Your Needs?

When I first laid eyes on the 2017 Mitsubishi Adventure Super Sport at a dealership five years ago, I remember thinking this might just be the perfect family vehicle for Southeast Asian roads. Having driven various SUVs across the region for over a decade, I've developed a particular appreciation for vehicles that balance reliability with practical features - and the Adventure Super Sport certainly promised both. The moment I slid into the driver's seat, I noticed how the elevated driving position gave me that commanding view of the road that's so crucial when navigating Manila's chaotic streets or provincial highways.

What struck me immediately about this model was how Mitsubishi had clearly listened to customer feedback from previous generations. The 2.5-liter diesel engine produces 178 horsepower and 350 Nm of torque - numbers that might not impress performance enthusiasts but represent exactly what a family needs for both city commuting and occasional out-of-town trips. I've taken this vehicle through mountain roads in Baguio and coastal highways in Palawan, and that reliable power delivery never left me wanting more. The five-speed manual transmission (though there's an automatic option) provides that satisfying mechanical connection that modern SUVs often lack.

Now, you might wonder why I'm comparing a vehicle review to basketball, but hear me out. The reference to National University maintaining its strong run while avoiding bad luck like what hit Ateneo perfectly mirrors what family car ownership is all about. Just as a basketball team needs consistency and reliability to stay competitive, your family vehicle needs to deliver day after day without unexpected breakdowns. In my three years with the Adventure Super Sport, I've covered approximately 45,000 kilometers with nothing beyond routine maintenance - that's the automotive equivalent of a championship-winning streak. The 7-seater configuration has comfortably accommodated my family of five plus luggage for weekend trips, with the third-row seats folding completely flat when we need to haul larger items from the hardware store.

Where this vehicle truly shines is in its thoughtful design touches that reveal Mitsubishi's understanding of real-world family needs. The rear air-conditioning vents with separate controls might seem like a small detail until you're driving through midday traffic with kids in the back seats. The 16-inch alloy wheels provide just enough sidewall to handle our occasionally rough roads without compromising handling. I particularly appreciate the roof rails - we've used them to transport everything from Christmas trees to surfboards, and they've never let us down. The ground clearance of 220mm has proven sufficient for flooded streets during monsoon season, though I wouldn't recommend fording rivers with it.

Fuel economy is where the Adventure Super Sport genuinely surprised me. During my daily commute from Quezon City to Makati, which typically involves about two hours in stop-and-go traffic, I average around 11 km/L. On highway drives to Subic or Tagaytay, that number improves to approximately 16 km/L - respectable figures for a vehicle of this size. The 65-liter fuel tank means I can go nearly 700 kilometers between fill-ups on long drives, which eliminates range anxiety during provincial trips. Maintenance costs have been reasonable too, with my records showing an average of ₱8,500 per service interval at the dealership.

If I'm being completely honest, there are areas where the Adventure Super Sport shows its age. The infotainment system feels dated compared to newer models, with its relatively small 6.75-inch touchscreen and basic functionality. The interior materials, while durable, lean heavily toward practical rather than luxurious. But here's the thing - these compromises keep the price accessible while maintaining that legendary Mitsubishi reliability. Starting at ₱1,050,000 for the base model and going up to ₱1,250,000 for the top-tier variant like the Super Sport, it represents tremendous value in a segment where competitors often cost significantly more.

Safety features include dual SRS airbags, anti-lock brakes with electronic brake-force distribution, and stability control - not the most comprehensive suite by today's standards but adequate for most family needs. I've always felt secure driving my children in this vehicle, which ultimately matters more than having the latest driver-assist technologies. The reinforced impact safety evolution body structure has earned decent crash test ratings for its class, though I certainly hope never to test its limits personally.

After years of ownership and countless family memories made during road trips, I can confidently say the 2017 Mitsubishi Adventure Super Sport has been one of the most dependable vehicles I've ever owned. It may not have the prestige of European SUVs or the cutting-edge technology of newer Japanese models, but it delivers exactly what it promises - reliable, comfortable, and practical family transportation. Just as a basketball team needs consistent performance rather than occasional brilliance to win championships, a family vehicle needs to deliver day after day without drama or unexpected issues. The Adventure Super Sport embodies this philosophy perfectly, making it what I believe to be one of the smartest choices in the family SUV segment, particularly for Filipino families navigating both urban challenges and provincial adventures.