The Mitsubishi Triton Thread

REVIEW | Top-spec Triton takes on mid-spec Ranger FX4, but why does it not sell in SA?

• The Mitsubishi Triton takes on the Ford Ranger FX4.

• The Triton is the more affordable between the two bakkies, but fails to sell in big numbers.

• Both bakkies have similar power outputs, despite fielding engines of different capacities.

It's a bit of a funny story, but the Mitsubishi Triton is not a contender for 'best selling bakkie in South Africa'. Which is rather sad because the Triton is not a bad bakkie. And on the plus side, it drives well, and the cabin is quite comfortable.

On a recent trip to Klipbokkop Mountain Reserve between Villiersdorp and Worcester on the R43, we put the Triton up against one of its direct rivals, the Ford Ranger. But not just any Ranger, the FX4 4x4 that was launched locally earlier this year. Both bakkies have several positives counting in their favour, but there are definite differences in how each bakkie is positioned in the market.

The interesting bit between the two bakkies is that the Triton in question is the top-of-the-line double cab 4x4 automatic model, whereas the Ranger is the mid-spec FX4 double cab 4x4. Of course, there is a substantial price difference between the two, and it raises an important question: Why does a top-spec bakkie struggle to sell against a mid-tier offering?

https://www.news24.com/wheels/newmo...fx4-but-why-does-it-not-sell-in-sa-20210915-2

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What the readers say: Why the Mitsubishi Triton bakkie doesn't sell in SA

• The latest Mitsubishi Triton is a great bakkie, but it does not seem to find favour with locals.

• Wheels24 readers share their thoughts on why the bakkie doesn't sell in SA.

• Majority of our readers feel that the brand's after-sales and customer care are their biggest downfalls.

The Mitsubishi Triton recently came through the Wheels24 test garage. It's a good-looking vehicle, and of all the bakkies we've driven recently, it certainly proved to have the best fuel consumption with a claimed 8.3-litre/100km reading from the automaker. However, I managed to average an even lower reading of 7.9-litres/100km.

It's incredibly spacious inside; the suspension is set up to tackle the off-road, but yet drives as comfortable as an SUV instead of a bakkie. While the range-topping model might be over R650 000, the base model 2.4-litre 4x2 model is priced at R574 995. Still, the 133kW of power and 450Nm of torque are more than sufficient for any task.

This bakkie has a lot going for it, but it just can't seem to get off the mark in a country that is known for its love for bakkies.

 
American influence could shape new Mitsubishi Triton

Mitsubishi Triton could be going big, if America gets its way.

The Mitsubishi Triton might soon receive a significant boost to its future product development R&D.

Demand drives innovation and the required scaling for new features, on all vehicles. That includes bakkies.

When a specific bakkie model reaches critical sales mass, product planners can start negotiating better deals on equipment and advanced technical features. The more you sell, the more revenue you have to invest in better future vehicle upgrades.

In the bakkie world, America matters. A lot! Ford has illustrated how beneficial global bakkie demand can be, after returning the T6 Ranger to North America.

With the flood of Ranger sales that Ford has managed to harvest in North America, everyone benefits. Ranger has become a truly global bakkie since reentering the American market, and that scale has allowed Ford to furnish it with the latest driver aids and assistance systems.

Ranger has also enlivened the ‘small pick-up’ market in America, comparable to a standard bakkie in South Africa. With many more Americans now buying ‘global’ double-cabs, it has opened the opportunity for some familiar names to return to the world’s most important bakkie market.

The latest among these might be Mitsubishi. The Japanese brand has experienced strong interest from its powerful North American dealer organisation, to introduce the Triton.

Great things are expected from the next-generation Triton. It will be part of an alliance project between Nissan, Renault and Mitsubishi – with the latter being responsible for most of the core engineering.

 
Mitsubishi Triton and Pajero Sport get special RalliArt treatment

RalliArt has been a performance division of Mitsubishi that helped pioneer ambitious and successful rally cars such as the Lancer and Starion. Now it looks like the iconic moniker will be making a return to Thailand in the guise of a special edition.

Both the Mitsubishi Triton and the Pajero Sport are available with the RalliArt kit which includes specific garnishes for the front bumper, side decals, bed liner, mud flaps and a set of floor mats. Offered as standard in the package is a set of halogen projector headlamps, foglamps, LED taillamps, privacy glass, electrochromatic mirror, two-tone fabric seats and keyless entry.

Unlike the model offered here, the Mitsubishi Triton, even with the RalliArt package, is fitted with a turbodiesel 2,5-litre four-cylinder engine which delivers 94 kW and 240 N.m of torque which is sent to the rear wheels via five-speed manual gearbox.

The Mitsubishi Pajero Sport on the other hand, benefits from the turbodiesel 2,4-litre four-pot mill that delivers 133 kW and 430 N.m of torque to the 4×4 system via an eight-speed Aisin torque converter. This model also comes standard with LED headlamps, black roof rails, a 4,2-inch High Contrast multi-information display and dual-zone climate control among other comfort and safety features.


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The Mitsubishi Triton Ralliart Is The Perfect Pickup

The revival of Ralliart could have gone very badly, and instead it blessed us with this truck.

Mitsubishi Ralliart has returned, bringing its signature “motors-ness” to the market in Thailand with the best pickup I’ve seen in a while, the Triton Ralliart. Mitsubishi also applied the branding to the Pajero Sport. When an iconic badge reappears with a mild reskin of an SUV and a pickup, usually I’d cry foul but not with these. This is good Ralliart and a sign of life from Mitsubishi.

Mitsubishi says the Triton Ralliart will come in two different configurations, and will start at ฿667,000 or about $19,800. There will be a Mega Cab and a Double Cab, but the rest of the truck looks identical. The Triton isn’t sold in the U.S., because of course it isn’t, though it is sold in other export markets as the Mitsubishi L200. I see the Mexican market L200s often and always cheer up at the sight, but they’ve never looked this good:

These Ralliart trucks are based on the “low-rider variant” of the Triton, which looks like a sportier model more than an off-road focused one. It’s clear that these are not meant for serious off-roading. Neither model is equipped with four-wheel drive, nor appear to have underbody protection. And, obviously, there’s very little ground clearance.


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Spy Shots: 2024 Mitsubishi Triton

The first 2024 Mitsubishi Triton prototypes have been spotted undergoing testing. Here’s what we know about the Japanese bakkie.

The double-cab bakkie market is constantly evolving. If one brand launches a new model, you can be sure that the rest will be taking notice and preparing updates of their own. With traditional bakkie markets like South Africa and Australia buying huge numbers of these vehicles, it’s vital for the brands to be constantly innovating and updating.

2022 will be a big year for the South African bakkie market. Not only will we see introductions like the all-new Ford Ranger and Isuzu D-Max, but updates are scheduled for many of the other offerings, like the Hilux which will see a GR Sport version at some point. Peugeot launched its Landtrek bakkie just before the end of 2021. A locally-developed and built updated Nissan Navara joined the fray too.


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The flip side: How Mitsubishi Motors is rising from the ashes to win back loyal SA customers

• Mitsubishi once had a strong Colt fan-base in South Africa, until the bakkie was rebranded as the Triton.

• The brand is slowly rebuilding its reputation with a strong product offering complemented by better customer service.

• Good sales growth attributed to its targeted product approach.

Mitsubishi Motors has some good products in South Africa, but the brand seems to be hidden in the shadows. Yet, the automaker has improved significantly over the past couple of years, albeit unnoticeable to the public.

Mitsubishi has been a solid brand in South Africa. Despite lower sales numbers than bigger automakers in the local market, this alternative Japanese brand still has a significant following.

The automaker's Triton - the Colt reincarnated - is one of its legacy vehicles, along with the Pajero and Outlander. In fact, Mitsubishi has extended its range with a bit of something for everyone again with the ASX, the addition of the Eclipse Cross a couple of years back, and the versatile seven-seater Xpander. The latter two models are their current biggest sellers, along with the Pajero Sport.

 
Mitsubishi Triton GL (2022) Specs & Pricing

The Japanese brand has introduced a pocket-friendly version of its bakkie for fleet owners and SMEs. Here are the specifications and pricing for the Mitsubishi Triton GL.

In the highly-competitive double-cab bakkie segment there are many brands jostling for sales. With the majority of sales being snapped by the ever-popular Toyota Hilux, the remaining brands have to fight for the remaining customers.

Mitsubishi is trying the value-added angle, and has launched the Mitsubishi Triton GL, which comes in at a much cheaper price than the rest of the Triton range.

How much is the Mitsubishi Triton GL in South Africa?

The Triton range is sold with a 3-year/100 000 km manufacturer’s warranty as standard, along with a 5-year/90 000 km service plan. Five-year/unlimited km roadside assistance is also included. Service intervals are set at every 10 000 km.

Triton 2.4L DI-DC M/T GL 4×2 R479 995

Triton 2.4L DI-DC M/T 4×2 R594 995

Triton 2.4L DI-DC A/T 4×2 R614 995

Triton 2.4L DI-DC M/T 4×4 R654 995

Triton 2.4L DI-DC A/T 4×4 R674 995

Triton 4.4L DI-DC A/T 4×4 Xtreme R734 995

 
Mitsubishi Triton double cab now more attainable as GL model joins range

Although the current-generation Mitsubishi Triton is priced highly competitively, and somewhat underrated by bakkie buyers, its market penetration has been limited, to a degree, by the lack of lower-spec models in the range.

But now the importer has answered the prayers of those seeking a more attainable double-cab bakkie package, with the introduction of a GL 4x2 model. Priced at R479 995, the newcomer is a good R115 000 cheaper than the high-spec model (see full pricing below).

The Triton Double Cab GL comes with a less powerful version of Mitsubishi’s 2.4-litre intercooled turbodiesel engine, which produces 100kW and 324Nm (versus 133kW/430Nm in the more upmarket models). Mitsubishi claims a combined fuel consumption figure of 8.0 litres per 100km. Unfortunately the GL is available with only a six-speed manual gearbox.

Customers will also have to give up a bit of spec, with the familiar leather upholstery replaced by cloth, but the GL is by no means a bare-bones bakkie. The standard kit includes automatic air conditioning, touch screen audio system with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay connectivity, electric windows, remote central locking, dual front airbags and ABS brakes.

The GL also features a limited-slip differential and you won’t have to stare at a set of steelies (not that there’s anything wrong with those) as 16-inch alloy wheels are standard.

Mitsubishi Triton Pricing (March 2022)

  • 2.4L DI-DC M/T GL 4x2 - R479 995
  • 2.4L DI-DC M/T 4x2 - R594 995
  • 2.4L DI-DC A/T 4x2 - R614 995
  • 2.4L DI-DC M/T 4x4 - R654 995
  • 2.4L DI-DC A/T 4x4 - R674 995
  • 2.4L DI-DC A/T 4x4 Xtreme - R734 995
 
New entry-level Mitsubishi Triton bakkie undercuts next model in range by over R100k

Mitsubishi South Africa expanded its Triton line-up to five models. The new model, called the Triton GL, acts as the new entry point to the range and will exclusively be available as a 4x2 and the automaker's six-speed manual gearbox.

Like the rest of the range, the Triton GL is also available in double guise, but the 2.4-litre turbodiesel engine has been detuned to deliver 100kW and 324Nm versus the rest's 132kW/430Nm. Though it's not available in 4x4, the bakkie does feature a limited-slip differential, a 75 litre fuel tank, and rides on 245/70 R16 alloy wheels.

Mitsubishi South Africa expanded its Triton line-up to five models. The new model, called the Triton GL, acts as the new entry point to the range and will exclusively be available as a 4x2 and the automaker's six-speed manual gearbox.

Like the rest of the range, the Triton GL is also available in double guise, but the 2.4-litre turbodiesel engine has been detuned to deliver 100kW and 324Nm versus the rest's 132kW/430Nm. Though it's not available in 4x4, the bakkie does feature a limited-slip differential, a 75 litre fuel tank, and rides on 245/70 R16 alloy wheels.

 
Mitsubishi on the commercial vehicle offensive – introduces Triton GL

Mitsubishi’s trusty Triton can wear many hats and the brand has just added another, less glitzy model to the lineup – the Triton GL – targeting commercial buyers and fleets alike. It’s competitively priced, too.

Mitsubishi has expanded the Triton range to now include both commercial and lifestyle offerings. The Triton has found favour with many a lifestyle customer and the move to introduce an offering for fleet owners, as well as small and medium enterprises is a smart one, offering high levels of safety, practicality, and reliability to the commercial vehicle segment.

Jeffrey Allison, General Manager: Marketing at MMSA explains, “Fans of the Mitsubishi brand have shown overwhelming interest in a more robust commercial vehicle range, and MMSA is happy to oblige by introducing the Triton Double Cab GL.”

The Triton GL features Mitsubishi’s proven DOHC intercooled turbodiesel engine offering 100 kW and 324 N.m of torque. Slotting in as an entry point to the Triton range, the GL features in 4×2 guise with a six-speed manual transmission only. Triton double cab models all feature an impressive 1 520 mm long and 1 470 mm wide load bed, reinforced for durability.

 
Mitsubishi Triton single cab bakkie returns to South Africa: Pricing and specs

The Mitsubishi Triton is once again available in single cab workhorse guise, a format that hasn’t been offered in the current generation until now.

Aimed squarely at business users, the new Triton single cab GL model is priced at R409 995, which is a R75 000 saving over the entry-level double cab GL variant that was announced earlier this year. Like the latter, the newcomer is powered by a detuned version of the familiar 2.4-litre turbodiesel engine, which in this guise produces 100kW and 324Nm.

Mitsubishi Triton Pricing (August 2022)

2.4L DI-SC M/T GL 4x2 - R409 995

2.4L DI-DC M/T GL 4x2 - R484 990

2.4L DI-DC M/T 4x2 - R599 990

2.4L DI-DC A/T 4x2 - R619 990

2.4L DI-DC M/T 4x4 - R659 990

2.4L DI-DC A/T 4x4 - R679 990

2.4L DI-DC A/T 4x4 Xtreme - R748 990

 
Facelifted Mitsubishi Triton (2022) Specs & Price

Mitsubishi is rolling out a freshly facelifted Triton bakkie for local buyers starting with a single-cab Triton GL aimed squarely at business users. Take a look at the specifications and pricing details for the Triton range below…

The Mitsubishi Triton has a loyal following in South Africa and its owners heap a ton of praise on this often overlooked offering.

In an effort to keep the Triton fresh and relevant in a fast-changing bakkie segment, Mitsubishi Motors is in the process of introducing an updated Triton and the single-cab Triton GL not only marks the start of the rollout but it also serves to broaden the market appeal by targeting business users who might need a capable workhorse for daily operation.

As far as styling goes, the Triton GL wears a black grille and has black door handles, mirrors, black bumper and black side steps. The Triton GL has a payload capacity of 1 ton and there are 4 cargo hooks in the load bin to secure goods. 16-inch steel wheels are fitted as standard.

Durable vinyl upholstery is fitted and air conditioning, automatic headlights and wipers are also standard as are electric windows and central locking. A total of 2 airbags are also standard as well as ABS with EBD.

“The launch of the Single Cab is firmly directed at the fleet and small business market and aimed to provide a cost-effective solution in the face of the steadily rising price of fuel and the recent repo rates hike,” explains Jeffrey Allison, General Manager: Marketing at MMSA

How much does the Mitsubishi Triton cost in South Africa?

Triton 2.4L DI-SC M/T GL 4×2 – R409 995

Triton 2.4L DI-DC M/T GL 4×2 – R484 990

Triton 2.4L DI-DC M/T 4×2 – R599 990

Triton 2.4L DI-DC A/T 4×2 – R619 990

Triton 2.4L DI-DC M/T 4×4 – R659 990

Triton 2.4L DI-DC A/T 4×4 – R679 990

Triton 2.4L DI-DC A/T 4×4 Xtreme – R748 990

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

 
Is there anywhere I can find a decent review of the Triton 2.4 Di Gl DC? Seriously considering this bakkie, just want to get some details from someone who has driven it for a while.
 
Mitsubishi Triton Heritage Edition (2022) Specs & Price

Mitsubishi has unveiled a new Triton Heritage Edition model for the South African market, with the purchase price including a number of “exclusive experiences”. Here’s how much it costs…

Mitsubishi Motors South Africa has added a Heritage Edition model to its Triton range to celebrate what it describes as the brand’s “long and distinguished heritage” in the country.

Fittingly joining the line-up (which recently gained a new GL trim level and a single-cab body style) just before South Africa celebrates Heritage Day, the limited-edition derivative is based on the Triton 2.4L DI-D double cab 4×4 AT. Just 50 units will be available, with each priced at R719 990 (thus commanding a R40 000 premium over the model on which it’s based).

The Japanese firm’s local distributor claims the purchase price “also includes a number of exclusive experiences”, which we’ll touch on below. First, though, let’s take a look at what makes a Triton Heritage Edition.

How much does the Mitsubishi Triton cost in South Africa?

Triton 2.4L DI-D single cab GL 4×2 – R409 995

Triton 2.4L DI-D double cab GL 4×2 – R484 990

Triton 2.4L DI-D double cab 4×2 – R599 990

Triton 2.4L DI-D double cab 4×2 AT – R619 990

Triton 2.4L DI-D double cab 4×4 – R659 990

Triton 2.4L DI-D double cab 4×4 AT – R679 990

Triton 2.4L DI-D double cab Heritage Edition 4×4 AT – R719 990

Triton 2.4L DI-D double cab Xtreme 4×4 AT – R748 990

All Triton models are covered by Mitsubishi’s 3-year/100 00 km warranty and a 5-year/90 000 km service plan (with intervals of 10 000 km).

 
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