In South Africa’s fiercely competitive bakkie market, the Mitsubishi Triton has always felt a bit like the underdog. Overshadowed by the Toyota Hilux, Ford Ranger, and Isuzu D-Max, its modest sales figures say less about its capability and more about the sometimes bewildering brand loyalty local buyers display. Enter the Mitsubishi Triton Xtreme – an attempt to break free from the shadows by going all out. But does it strike the right balance?
There’s no denying that the Mitsubishi Triton has all the makings of a successful bakkie. Dakar-proven four-wheel-drive capability? Check. Bulletproof engine? Absolutely. Comfort in spades and solid build quality? Naturally, it’s a Mitsubishi. Yet, despite these credentials, it remains underrated and, frankly, undersold. The Xtreme derivative, launched last year, was meant to shake things up – but has Mitsubishi tried too hard to appeal to the adventure market?
ACCESSORIES GALORE
When Mitsubishi launched its range of accessories for the Triton – along with a heavily updated look and feel – it was a smart move. After all, South African bakkie owners love to personalise their vehicles. But the Xtreme seems to have raided the entire catalogue. It sports everything from a black grille emblem, wheel arch extensions, and side door mouldings, to window coverings and intricate alloy wheels. It’s as if Mitsubishi decided to showcase every possible add-on in one model.
While some buyers might appreciate the fully kitted-out look, others could find it a bit much. Sometimes, less is more. The Xtreme risks looking like it’s trying too hard to be something it already is: a capable bakkie. While appealing on their own, the accessories can feel like overkill when all thrown together.
COMFORT WHERE IT COUNTS
Despite the exterior bravado, the Triton Xtreme’s biggest surprise is its comfort. Thanks to suspension technology gleaned from the Nissan Navara, the Triton offers what might be one of the most comfortable drives in its class. During our test drive, dropping the tyre pressure from 2.6 bar to 2.4 bar transformed the ride, highlighting how a simple tweak can make all the difference.
Inside, Mitsubishi clearly didn’t skimp on the details. The cabin features a clean dashboard design with user-friendly controls, while leather seats with red stitching add a subtle touch of sportiness. The 8” infotainment system, compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, rounds off a well-thought-out interior. It’s functional, comfortable, and far from the spartan interiors that used to define bakkies.
MORE THAN JUST NUMBERS
The Triton Xtreme is powered by Mitsubishi’s tried-and-tested 2.4-litre turbodiesel engine, delivering 133 kW and 430 Nm. Sure, it’s not the most powerful in the segment, but it’s dependable and smooth. Paired with a six-speed automatic transmission, the power delivery feels predictable and confident – exactly what you want in a bakkie.
What sets it apart is how it handles. While some bakkies can feel all too agricultural, the Triton remains composed. The ride is firm but not jarring, and it corners with surprising confidence. The steering is responsive, and overall, the driving experience feels refined for a vehicle of this nature.
DAKAR DNA
Mitsubishi’s Dakar Rally heritage isn’t just for show. The Triton Xtreme backs it up with genuine off-road ability. The Super Select 4WD-II system allows for seamless shifts between driving modes, adapting to sand, mud, gravel, and rocky terrain with ease. Active Yaw Control and hill descent control add to the confidence, making off-road driving less intimidating.
The Triton’s ground clearance and approach/departure angles make it capable of handling rough tracks. In fact, it feels most at home when the tarmac ends, showcasing its rugged side with composure.
Beyond its off-road prowess, the Triton Xtreme is practical where it matters. With a one-tonne load capacity and a 3.5-tonne braked towing capability, it handles workhorse duties without breaking a sweat. The load bin comes rubberised straight from the factory, saving buyers an additional expense.
Safety is another strong point. The Xtreme comes equipped with seven airbags, stability and traction control, and a rear-view camera, offering peace of mind for daily commutes and weekend adventures.
WHY ISN’T IT SELLING LIKE HOTCAKES?
It’s a fair question. The Triton range ticks so many boxes, yet it remains a niche choice. Brand loyalty is undoubtedly a factor. Many buyers are reluctant to move away from the familiar names that dominate the market. But for those willing to break the mould, the Triton Xtreme offers a compelling alternative.
Perhaps Mitsubishi’s approach with the Xtreme – throwing every accessory at it – was an attempt to create a headline-grabbing halo model. But in doing so, they may have missed the mark with buyers who prefer a more understated look.
LAST WORD
The Mitsubishi Triton Xtreme deserves more attention than it gets. It’s comfortable, capable, and backed by Mitsubishi’s reputation for reliability. While the accessory overload might not be to everyone’s taste, the fundamentals of the Triton remain solid.
The Triton Xtreme makes a strong case for buyers looking for something different – a bakkie that isn’t just another (insert name of popular pick-up here). Strip back some of the extras, and you have a genuinely impressive all-rounder. It’s time South African buyers gave this underdog the recognition it deserves.
Report by BERNIE HELLBERG JR | Images © MITSUBISHI SOUTH AFRICA
