The range of Triton one-ton pick-ups marketed by Mitsubishi SA has been expanded significantly with the addition of three 4×2 single cab models to the existing line-up of two Club Cabs and three premium Double Cabs.
“The rugged and reliable Mitsubishi Colt built up a proud heritage in South Africa when it was marketed here from 1995. The Colts continue to serve thousands of owners reliably and have become a household legend. We want to build on this reputation with the new Triton single cab models,” explained Mitsubishi SA’s CEO, Jaco Oosthuizen.
“The Colt’s success propelled Mitsubishi to loyal brand status in the local pick-up market, selling more than 100 000 units, and we see this as being an ideal foundation for launching an expanded Triton range.
“The all-new Triton replaced the Colt range in 2007. However, until now the Triton range has been limited to Double Cabs and Club Cabs, despite the fact that the one ton single cab market makes up approximately 30% of the overall bakkie market in South Africa,” explained Oosthuizen. “We believe that with the reliability and ruggedness of the Triton we will deliver a fantastic bakkie into this market.
“When Imperial took over the Mitsubishi franchise from Mercedes-Benz SA in June 2011 we immediately set about rebuilding the Brand and expanding our product range. The first step in the commercial vehicle market was to reintroduce a face-lifted Triton Double Cab and Club Cab,” continued Oosthuizen.
“The current Triton range has two turbo diesel engine derivatives of 2.5- and 3.2-litre capacity as well as a 2.4-litre petrol derivative. These models have built a strong reputation for comfort and drive-train reliability.
“The Triton was originally designed as a lifestyle bakkie, with high comfort levels, and that is why, internationally the single cab models have followed the double and club cab models.
The Single Cab Triton will arrive in three models: two with the 2,4-litre petrol engine, the GL and the better equipped GLX, and then there is also a GLX with a 2,5-litre turbo diesel engine.
Standard features in the entry level units are better than competitors, including anti-skid ABS, Electronic Brake Force Distribution (EBD), “high rider” suspension and dual airbags. The GLX models include air-conditioning and electric windows in the specification, while the diesel GLX also gets a standard rear differential lock.
Both the petrol and diesel engines are four-cylinders. The 2,4-litre petrol produces 97kW of power at 5 250r/min and 202Nm of torque at 4 000r/min while the 2,5-litre turbo diesel develops 100kW of power at 4 000r/min and a massive 314Nm of torque at 2 000r/min. In the single cab market these engine statistics compare well with the opposition and the engines provide the added benefit of good torque at low engine revolutions. The diesel engine is particularly strong.
Drive to the rear wheels is via a five-speed manual gearbox. The diesel derivative has a rear differential lock to make it even more versatile in off-road conditions. The “high rider” suspension gives the Triton a workmanlike appearance with the benefit of added ground clearance.
The disc/drum braking system has anti-skid ABS and Electronic Brake Force Distribution (EBD) as standard features which are an option offered by other competitors’ entry level bakkies.
Safety is designed into the Triton from inception, with the Reinforced Impact Safety Evolution (RISE) body construction forming a safety cell for the occupants. Dual front airbags are standard on all the derivatives.
The Triton single cab’s ergonomically-designed dashboard combines practicality and functionality with a modern, luxury appearance. The sturdy design is solid and rattle free even on corrugated gravel roads.
The 60:40 split front bench seats offers good support and permits three people to be seated in the cabin comfortably. The seat is adjustable for backrest incline. The steering column is tilt adjustable to ensure a comfortable seating position for the driver. There is storage space in the glove box and two door pockets, while there is also a bottle holder. The seats and floor have hard-wearing vinyl coverings.
The Triton comes with two speakers as standard for easy fitment of an audio system, while the GLX models have power windows, air conditioning and central locking.
The spacious load box and tailgate measures a generous 2 220mm in length, 1 470mm in width and is 405mm high. The load box is double walled for durability. Rated load capacity is one ton for all three models, with a maximum towing capacity of 1200kg.
The Triton has a 3-year/100 000km warranty, a 5-year/75 000km service plan for the petrol derivatives and 5-year/70 000km service plan for the diesel derivative, with servicing every 15 000km for the petrol and every 10 000km for the diesel derivative.
Prices start at a very competitive R179 900 for the GL, with the GLX petrol costing R10 000 more, while the GLX diesel is priced at R239 900.
“We are confident that the extended range of Tritons will make a significant impact on the local market,” commented Oosthuizen. “The Mitsubishi brand has a long heritage in South Africa, going back to the 1970’s, and over the years these products have built up a strong reputation for performance, reliability and durability while enjoying the backing of a strong dealer network located in all the major centres.”
