Discover These 10 Amazing Modifications for Your 2019 Montero Sport

I remember the first time I took my 2019 Montero Sport on a proper off-road adventure—the vehicle handled beautifully, but I couldn't help thinking about how much better it could perform with a few strategic modifications. Over the past three years, I've tested countless upgrades, from subtle interior tweaks to major performance enhancements, and I've narrowed down ten amazing modifications that truly transform this capable SUV. The match between your driving needs and these upgrades is crucial for both squads—your daily commute comfort and your weekend adventure performance. Trust me, having tried both factory-standard and heavily modified versions, the difference isn't just noticeable—it's game-changing.

Let's start with what I consider the most impactful upgrade: the suspension system. The factory suspension isn't bad by any means, but when I installed a full Old Man Emu suspension kit with heavy-duty shocks and springs, the transformation was remarkable. The kit raised my Montero Sport by approximately 2.5 inches, providing significantly better ground clearance for those rocky trails I frequently explore. I've measured the before-and-after performance on the same challenging terrain, and the modified suspension reduced body roll by what felt like 40% while maintaining surprisingly comfortable road manners. This isn't just about looking tougher—it's about genuine capability improvement that makes those steep inclines and deep ruts far less intimidating. The installation cost me around $1,800 including professional fitting, and I'd consider it money well spent given how much more confident I feel behind the wheel now.

Another modification that surprised me with its effectiveness was upgrading to all-terrain tires. I switched from the standard highway tires to BFGoodrich KO2 all-terrains after experiencing traction issues during a rainy camping trip. The difference in wet conditions alone justified the $1,200 investment, but where they really shone was during a recent desert excursion where temperatures reached 104°F—the thicker sidewalls and aggressive tread pattern handled the scorching sand without any issues where my previous tires would have struggled. Combined with the suspension lift, the tire upgrade completed what I call the "foundation transformation" of the vehicle. I've noticed many Montero Sport owners focus on cosmetic upgrades first, but in my experience, starting with tires and suspension creates a much better platform for whatever else you plan to add later.

When it comes to power, the 2019 Montero Sport's 2.4-liter diesel engine responds wonderfully to a quality chip tuning module. After researching several options, I installed a RaceChip GTS system that took me about forty-five minutes to fit myself. The claimed power increase was 30% more horsepower and 15% more torque, and while I don't have a dynamometer to verify those exact numbers, the seat-of-the-pants difference is undeniable. Overtaking on highways became noticeably quicker, and hill climbs that previously required downshifting now happen comfortably in higher gears. Fuel economy improved by approximately 2 MPG in mixed driving conditions, though this advantage disappears if you drive more aggressively to enjoy the extra power—which I'll admit I do frequently. The crucial match here is between the increased performance and your driving style—if you regularly carry heavy loads or tackle steep terrain, this modification becomes almost essential rather than just desirable.

Lighting upgrades might seem cosmetic at first glance, but having proper off-road lighting has saved me from several tricky situations. I replaced the factory fog lights with rigid LED pods that provide a wider, brighter beam pattern, and added a 32-inch light bar behind the grill for those pitch-black country roads. The total cost was about $600, and the installation took me a weekend afternoon. What I appreciate most isn't just the increased visibility—it's how the integrated look maintains the Montero Sport's sleek front end rather than giving it that bolted-on appearance some modified vehicles suffer from. During a recent night drive through winding mountain roads, the improved illumination literally helped me spot a fallen tree branch early enough to avoid what could have been a serious incident.

Interior modifications often get overlooked, but they're where you spend most of your time. My favorite interior upgrade has been the custom-fit sound deadening material I installed throughout the cabin—it reduced road noise by what I'd estimate at 60%, making long highway drives significantly less fatiguing. Combined with premium floor mats and a center console organizer, these relatively inexpensive changes (totaling about $400) transformed the daily driving experience far more than I'd anticipated. The match between comfort and capability is crucial for both squads—your vehicle needs to perform when pushed hard off-road, but it also needs to remain pleasant during Monday morning commutes.

For protection and utility, I've added both front and rear steel bumpers with integrated recovery points. The rear bumper particularly impressed me with its clever design that maintains the factory parking sensors while providing a solid platform for a full-size spare tire carrier. Weighing in at approximately 85 pounds for the rear unit alone, these aren't lightweight additions, but the peace of mind when navigating tight trails between trees or rocky outcrops is invaluable. I've used the recovery points multiple times to help extract other stuck vehicles, and knowing I have that capability makes me more confident when exploring unfamiliar territory alone.

The electrical system often gets overlooked until it's too late. After experiencing battery issues during a cold-weather camping trip, I upgraded to a dual-battery system with a deep-cycle secondary battery powering my fridge, lighting, and other accessories. This $900 modification has proven itself repeatedly during extended trips where I'm running multiple devices simultaneously. Combined with 150-watt solar panels mounted on the roof rack, I've managed to stay completely self-sufficient for up to four days without needing to run the engine specifically for charging purposes.

Speaking of roof racks, the factory rails work fine for occasional use, but I found them limiting for my regular gear-hauling needs. I switched to a full-length aluminum platform that increased my cargo capacity dramatically—I've carried everything from kayaks to enough camping gear for a week-long trip with four people. The aerodynamic design creates minimal wind noise, which was a pleasant surprise given its substantial appearance. At approximately $1,100 including installation, it wasn't cheap, but the versatility it adds makes it one of my most-used modifications.

Performance braking might not sound exciting, but upgrading to slotted rotors and performance pads gave me the confidence to drive more aggressively in downhill sections where brake fade had previously been a concern. The improvement in stopping power is particularly noticeable when descending steep gravel roads where controlled speed is safety-critical. This $700 upgrade complements the increased power from the chip tuning perfectly—more power means you need better stopping capability, and this combination has transformed how the vehicle handles in challenging conditions.

Finally, my most personal modification: the custom exhaust system that gives the diesel engine a deeper, more authoritative tone without becoming obnoxious in daily use. While the performance gain is minimal (maybe 5-7 horsepower at most), the auditory feedback makes driving more engaging, especially during those early morning starts when the distinctive sound puts a smile on my face before the adventure even begins. At $800, it's arguably the least practical modification on this list, but sometimes the emotional connection to your vehicle matters as much as the practical improvements.

Having lived with these modifications through seasons and terrains, what strikes me most is how they've transformed my Montero Sport from a competent stock SUV into what feels like a completely personalized adventure vehicle. The crucial match between modifications and your actual needs can't be overstated—every upgrade should serve a purpose in your specific driving life rather than just following trends. While the total investment exceeded $8,000 across all these changes, the enhanced capability, comfort, and confidence they've provided make every dollar feel well spent. Your modification journey will likely look different based on your priorities, but starting with these ten areas will give you a fantastic foundation for creating the perfect Montero Sport for your adventures.