0-100: Latest and greatest
The biggest overhaul to Mitsubishi’s workhorse ute range in almost a decade means buyers need not be frightened by a Triton.
In the battle for dual-cab ute supremacy it’s become something of a truism that the brand with the latest new model is often also the brand with the greatest new model.
That brand right now is Mitsubishi, which this year launched the long-awaited sixth-generation version of its well-regarded Triton.
It’s been almost a decade since the fifth generation debuted so this update was due, despite a major facelift and technical upgrades in 2018. Sharp pricing saw that model come to be seen as something of a bargain among its rivals, despite being undercut by Chinese newcomers like GWM and LDV.
Cheap and cheerful positioning looks to be a thing of the past as Mitsubishi seeks to reposition Triton as a high-quality, Japanese-designed-and-engineered model. There are cheaper Triton dual cabs, including the GLX 2WD which starts at $43,690, along with GLX, GLX+ and GLS 4x4 variants, but buyers are increasingly stumping up for top-of-the-line variants that can handle work and play.
The new model is based on ladder-frame underpinnings to be shared with the forthcoming Nissan Navara and is powered by a new 2.4-litre bi-turbo four-cylinder diesel engine that produces category-competitive outputs of 150kW/470Nm. Riding on a longer wheelbase and with dimensional improvements to both the cargo tray and cabin width, the new Triton is a bigger, more comfortable, more capable machine.
Suspension remains independent via double wishbones up front and live axles with leaf springs at the rear, but changes have improved wheel travel and ride quality, while braked towing capacity has been boosted from 3100kg to a competitive 3500kg. The twin turbocharged engine drives through a six-speed automatic transmission delivering impressively eager response, with peak torque arriving at a low 1500rpm and remaining strong through to 2750rpm.
Out on the road the engine feels smooth and relaxed, with plenty in reserve for confident overtaking, while the cabin environment is quiet. Capable off-road performance is assured via Mitsubishi’s Super Select 4WD-II system with high and low range, plus a standard rear differential lock and terrain control system.
The boxier, more rugged exterior design is in keeping with contemporary ute-buyer tastes, enhanced as it is with 18-inch gloss-black alloy wheels, and contrasting black on the wheel arches, roof rails and sailplane. The roomy interior is well designed, with plenty of storage spots, leather seat trim and an integrated 9.0-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and wired Android Auto.
Other features include wireless smartphone charging, surround-view camera system, tyre-pressure monitoring, dual-zone climate control, and keyless entry and start.
Safety has also been significantly upgraded, with eight airbags and a plethora of new driver-assistance features, including an absurdly annoying driver attention alert. After years in the wilderness, Mitsubishi has done well to catch up to the dual-cab class leaders with this Triton, which offers a highly competitive package backed by one of the best warranties in the business.
The specs
Make/model: Mitsubishi Triton GSR dual-cab 4x4
Body style: Four-door dual-cab pickup
Retail price: $63,840 (MRLP)
Seating: 5
Fuel consumption: 7.7L/100km
Safety rating: 5 Star ANCAP Rating (2024)
Engine: Aluminium-block 2.4-litre 16V MIVEC DiD diesel, twin turbocharged (150kW/470Nm)
Transmission: Six-speed torque converter automatic
Drive type: Part-time and full-time four-wheel drive
Visit the Mitsubishi website for more.