The new Mitsubishi Triton is launching in South Africa this week and we will be driving it. Take a look at what you can expect to pay for the new Mitsubishi Triton…

Long-in-the-tooth aptly describes the current Triton double-cab bakkie, but don't despair, an all-new Triton is launching in South Africa this week. Mitsubishi refers to the new Triton as being a "Sport Utility Truck", hence SU, owing to its refined drive quality and comfort features associated with SUVs and passenger cars.

“From the onset, the brief to designers and engineers was to maintain the essence of the Triton, but also to improve on aspects of ride, handling and comfort to create a truly SUV-like experience from behind the wheel. The team has certainly complied and has earned the new Triton the signature of Sport Utility Truck among owners, dealers and within the company,” says Nic Campbell, General Manager at Mitsubishi Motors South Africa.

Key features of the new Triton

The new Triton is expected to offer higher levels of comfort and improved ride quality.

The new Triton will be powered by Mitsubishi’s latest-generation 2.4-litre turbodiesel engine producing 133 kW and 430 Nm of torque, representing an improvement of 25% in torque over the previous 2.5-litre turbodiesel engine. A choice of either a 6-speed manual or 5-speed automatic transmission will be available to buyers. Both 4×2 and 4×4 derivatives will also be offered.

"Our new lightweight turbodiesel engine is fitted with Mitsubishi's latest generation MIVEC technology and weighs 30kg less than its predecessor, resulting in improved responsiveness, fuel consumption, handling, cornering and braking performance," says Campbell.

The new Triton will also be fitted with a Super Select II 4WD system, the same system used in the Pajero and Pajero Sport, offering four different driving modes to tackle various terrains. The system is engaged using an electronic drive-selector in the cabin and the driver will have access to low-range modes and a rear differential lock to overcome more challenging off-road obstacles. Torque can also be split in a 40:60 ratio between the front and rear axle, improving cornering ability and ride quality over gravel and slippery surfaces.

The suspension has been revised to offer a smoother ride and the new Triton claims to ride like an SUV.

The new Triton will be competing in a competitive segment against the likes of the Ford Ranger and Toyota Hilux.

Mitsubishi has also improved NVH levels with noise deadening and sound absorbing materials and the automaker claims that the new Triton will feature a best-in-class turning radius of 5.9 metres that will improve manoeuvrability in urban areas.

The new Triton’s interior is said to combine ‘interior comfort of a passenger car with the functionality of a multi-purpose utility vehicle’ and according to Mitsubishi, customers can expect class-leading interior space with improvements in leg-, head- and shoulder room. In terms of features, a touchscreen infotainment system with Bluetooth and USB connectivity is fitted and comfort features include leather upholstery, electronic driver seat adjustment, rake/reach adjustable steering wheel, cruise control, rear parking camera and automatic dual zone air conditioning.

Safety features will include pretension seatbelts, active stability with traction control, hill start assist and ABS with EBD.

Look out for our first drive report coming your way this week!

New Mitsubishi Triton – Price in South Africa

Mitsubishi Triton 2.4 Di-D 4×2 Double Cab M/T – R479 900

Mitsubishi Triton 2.4 Di-D 4×2 Double Cab A/T – R499 900

Mitsubishi Triton 2.4 Di-D 4×4 Double Cab M/T – R539 900

Mitsubishi Triton 2.4 Di-D 4×4 Double Cab A/T – R559 900

The Mitsubishi Triton is sold with a 3-year/100 000 km warranty and a 5-year/90 000 km service plan.

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