XLS vs Limited

[NH Moto Expo]

I've finally decided that I want the reliability and comfort of a gen III. I also think it's best to go with the most modern engine the 3.8L. So I'm looking at 2003 to 2006 Montero's for overlanding the class VI roads in New England. I'll probably add 33's and some protection and storage and get out there with my dog. Besides the leather, is there any reason to avoid the XLS? It seems to be a much better deal and if I'm going to use seat covers anyway I'm wondering if that's not the best way to go. Mechanically they appear the same, 5 speed, 3.8 engine...not sure if the gear ratio is the same though.

Any ideas here?

 

[KyleT]

Iirc Only limiters were available after 2003.

And the transmission and diff gear ratios are different also From my research.

 

[NH Moto Expo]

http://www.patleary.com/2003-Mitsubishi-Montero-West-Seneca-NY-1529


Not sure where you got your info from...but here is an example of an 03 XLS. Unless the dealer got the year wrong.

 

[KyleT]

After 03 as in 04+

 

[Mrknowitall]

The XLS was mechanically different from the Limited in 2001 and 2002. In 2003, they all became the same. The following year, the XLS was dropped (AFAIK).
For me personally, I have my eye out for the right XLS- I'm not impressed with how the leather seats hold up in the older models (in my price range) and the T-case is simpler (2-speed, part time). The 01-02 XLS trucks had 4.90 gears, while the Limited/03+ trucks had 4.30 gears and deeper transmission gears. OD ratio is the same, as is low range. Both t-cases can have the fancy 3:1 gears from Mark's put in- but they are expensive! I don't know how well a 5spd truck (on 33's) would hold OD in your NE mountains. With the availability of good used models what it is, I would suggest you just look for a good one, regardless of trim level, unless it were a deal breaker.

 

[NH Moto Expo]

I'm with you thinking that the leather doesn't hold up well. The only reason I was excluding the 01 and 02 was for the 5 speed and the 3.8. Not sure how much more advanced the 3.8 is over the 3.5. But it sounds like the 5 speed vs 4 speed didn't affect mileage much as the final drive is the same.