In the unforgiving plains near the Cradle of Humankind, Mitsubishi made a bold statement with its sixth-generation Triton bakkie launch. While the terrain symbolises human evolution, the Triton’s event at the Lion Park 4×4 course illustrated the evolution of a bakkie that aims to carve out a bigger slice of South Africa’s fiercely competitive market.
The bakkie segment in South Africa is arguably the most competitive in the automotive market. Dominated by the “Big Three” – Toyota Hilux, Ford Ranger, and Isuzu D-Max – it’s a segment where newcomers face a daunting task. Despite being a well-regarded Japanese brand, Mitsubishi’s Triton has struggled to match its rivals in terms of market share in recent years. This is surprising, considering the Triton’s renowned reliability and competitive pricing.
Mitsubishi is well aware of this uphill battle. The new Triton arrives with the promise of change – a tougher look, smarter tech, and improved off-road capability. But does it have what it takes to truly unsettle its entrenched rivals?
A BOLDER STANCE
Mitsubishi has thrown out the rulebook with the Triton’s design. Gone are the soft, curvy lines of the previous generation, replaced by a more aggressive, angular aesthetic. The new “frontal shield” design with a 3D grille prefaces the bakkie’s commanding on-road presence, complemented by T-shaped LED taillights and blocky proportions reminiscent of modern American pickups.
This isn’t just about looks; the bakkie has grown by 50 mm in width, giving occupants more shoulder room. Mitsubishi has also improved noise insulation and seat lumbar support, which is noticeable on longer journeys. While the cabin doesn’t quite match the plush refinement of a Ford Ranger or VW Amarok, it’s functional, ergonomic, and well-built.
PROVEN POWERTRAIN
Under the bonnet, the Triton retains the 2.4-litre turbodiesel engine, offered in two tunes: 81 kW with 200 Nm and a more robust 135 kW with 430 Nm. Both variants are paired with either a six-speed manual or automatic gearbox. While these figures won’t break any records, they’re more than adequate for most applications, particularly when paired with Mitsubishi’s acclaimed Super Select 4WD-II system.
The highlight of our drive was the 4×4 course at the Lion Park. Here, the Triton demonstrated its off-road prowess, shifting effortlessly between 2H and 4H modes at speeds up to 100 km/h. Seven drive modes – Normal, Eco, Gravel, Snow, Mud, Sand, and Rock – gave the Triton versatility over various terrains. The Active Yaw Control system, which applies braking to the inside wheel during cornering, enhanced stability and grip, particularly on loose surfaces.
With a towing capacity of 3.5 tonnes and a lowered load bed for easier access, it’s clear that Mitsubishi hasn’t neglected practicality.
MIXED DRIVING RESULTS
On-road, the Triton feels solid and stable, but the ride quality may be a factor that divides opinions. During our gravel drive, the suspension felt overly firm, translating to a less comfortable experience. I suspect this was due to excessively high tyre pressures, which are ideal for asphalt but unforgiving on gravel. However, this firmness could be a sticking point, considering South Africans increasingly use bakkies as daily drivers. Buyers have become accustomed to the car-like rides of competitors such as the Ford Ranger and VW Amarok. While ride comfort isn’t everything – as Nissan Navara’s sales history attests – it certainly helps.
Off-road, however, the Triton shines. Its Super Select 4WD-II system provides seamless transitions between different terrains, making it a capable companion for adventure seekers. Yet, one must wonder if this prowess is enough to sway buyers who will spend more time on tar than trails.
A COOL CONTENDER (WITH CAVEATS)
The Triton’s range caters to a broad audience, from single-cab workhorses to leisure seekers. Prices start at R479,990 for the single cab and R639,990 for the double cab. Notably, Mitsubishi has tailored several special editions for South Africa.
The Athlete is styled for urban adventurers, featuring black 17″ alloys, a sports bar, and window deflectors. One step up the Xtreme is geared towards weekend explorers with additional off-road cladding and roof rails. At the top of the hill, the Edition 46 celebrates Mitsubishi’s 46-year bakkie heritage with overlanding accessories like a canopy, roof rack, and a built-in mini kitchen.
These trims offer something for everyone, although the interior technology – highlighted by an 8″ infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto – still trails behind some competitors’ more sophisticated digital cockpits.
Safety is another area where Mitsubishi has made strides. The Triton comes with a suite of features, including traction control, stability control, and hill descent control across the range. Double cab models offer up to six airbags, adding peace of mind for family use.
Practical touches like side steps, a rubberised load bin, and cupholders that fit four 600 ml bottles highlight Mitsubishi’s attention to detail. The rear seats fold flat, creating a useful storage area for valuables – something some rival models overlook.
LAST WORD
The new Mitsubishi Triton enters the South African market with a bold new look, a solid off-road heritage, and competitive pricing. However, it faces a tough challenge in convincing buyers to switch from the well-established Toyota Hilux, Ford Ranger, and Isuzu D-Max. While its rugged off-road capability and practical design are undeniable strengths, the firm on-road ride could deter those looking for a more refined daily driver.
In a market where brand loyalty runs deep, Mitsubishi’s challenge will be convincing buyers that the Triton offers more than just off-road prowess. It’s a bakkie that excels in the wild but might need to smooth out its on-road character to truly thrive. The Triton deserves a serious look for those seeking adventure and a bit of individuality.
PRICING
Triton 2.4DI-D single cab GL: R479,990
Triton 2.4DI-D single cab GL 4×4: R559,990
Triton 2.4DI-D double cab GL 4×4: R639,990
Triton 2.4DI-D double cab GLS auto: R679,990
Triton 2.4DI-D double cab GLS 4×4 manual: R739,990
Triton 2.4DI-D double cab GLS 4×4 auto: R759,990
Triton 2.4DI-D double cab Xtreme: R769,990
Triton 2.4DI-D double cab Athlete: R779,990
Triton 2.4DI-D double cab Xtreme 4×4: R849,990
Triton 2.4DI-D double cab Athlete 4×4: R859,990
Triton 2.4DI-D double cab Edition 46 4×4: R889,990
Report by BERNIE HELLBERG JR | Images © MITSUBISHI SOUTH AFRICA
