MITSUBISHI TRITON DIESEL PICK-UPS GET NEW ENGINE, A NEW FACE AND HIGHER SPECIFICATION
The Mitsubishi Triton Double Cab and Club Cab ranges have moved forward with engine upgrades, new styling inside and out and specification upgrades, while the Triton range itself has grown with the addition of Single Cab models.
Significant upgrades were introduced recently in terms of standard equipment in certain models, particularly the Club Cab derivatives, are all in line with the value-for-money strategy of Mitsubishi Motors SA.
Double Cab
The diesel-powered Mitsubishi Triton 4×4 has been given a substantial boost in power and torque. In line with global environmental trends, the capacity of the intercooled turbo diesel engine has been reduced from 3,2 litre to 2,5 litre. However, power goes up 9% from 120kW to 131kW and maximum torque increases by 17% from 343N.m to 400N.m.
The 4×4 system, which has proved its mettle in the toughest terrain, has also been upgraded. Typically driven through the rear wheels, the Triton Double Cab 4×4 now has a lockable centre differential combined with the shift-on-the-fly system. The driver can change from standard 4×2 mode (for fuel economy) to 4H without a locked differential at speeds up to 100km/h. This complements the locking rear differential and low range for go-anywhere capability.
The four wheel drive system is operated by Mitsubishi’s Super Select system, which permits the driver to select from four different transfer modes, depending on terrain, and changes can be made with the Triton on the move.
The Triton Double Cab 4×4 model is further distinguished by 245/65R17 tyres on 17- inch alloy wheels whereas the other models have 16-inch wheels. Towing capability has been increased to 1 500kg with a braked trailer.
Some of the new specifications on the Double Cabs include single-zone climate control, indicator repeaters in the side mirrors, upgraded alloy wheels, front disc brakes and rear brake drums, and a new front bumper and grill with colour-coded wheel arches.
As far as the cabin is concerned, the Triton now joins the ranks of luxury double-cab bakkies. Leather seats, climate control and excellent sound insulation make it a pleasure on longer drives. Add to this the cruise control, a three-spoke leather trimmed steering wheel with multi-function switches for the audio system, cruise control and Bluetooth, and it brings the Double Cab in line with the other luxury vehicles in the Mitsubishi product range.
The Mitsubishi Link system, which allows voice control of the system, is also standard. This complements the multi-information display, which shows altitude, temperature, fuel consumption and range. A compass is also included.
The load capacity of the Double Cab is still 1 000kg – a full ton – on a generous load box measuring 1 352mm in length, 1 470mm in width and a depth of 860mm.
Club Cab
Some of the major specification upgrades to the Club Cab include integrated Bluetooth, audio and phone controls on the steering wheel, voice-activated phone control and the new face.
The Club Cab is available only in diesel, matching the market demand where over 85% of the models are diesel units.
The Club Cabs have been given an upgrade in standard features similar to that of the Double Cabs, except that the seats are trimmed in fabric.
Single Cab
The Club Cab and Double Cab models in the expanded Triton range are complemented by the thoroughbred Single Cabs, whose tough, work-like building quality harks back to the legendary Colt range. The Single Cabs are available with the proven 2,4-litre petrol engine, which delivers 97kW of power and 202N.m of torque, and the 2,5-litre diesel engine, which is standard in the Club Cab.
There are three single-cab variants: GL and GLX with the petrol engine, and a GLX with the diesel unit. These bakkies are the workhorses of the family, trimmed in vinyl, but standard with airbags and ABS. The range is particularly well-priced. The higher spec models have air conditioning, power windows and central locking. The GLX diesel derivative is fitted with a rear diff-lock ensuring that all working conditions can be conquered
The Single Cabs have a carrying capacity of 1 000kg and an enormous load bay measuring 2 220mm in length, 1 750 in width and with a depth of 405mm.
Running costs are at the forefront of many bakkie buy decisions. The Mitsubishi Triton’s running costs equate to around 27 cents per kilometre up to 180 000km – making this an attractive, affordable option for fleets and businesses.
All Mitsubishi Tritons are covered by a 3-year/100 000km warranty.
- SC Service Plan 5yr/75 000km – Petrol
- SC Service Plan 5yr/70 000km – Diesel
- CC Service Plan 5yr/100 000km
- DC Service Plan 5yr/100 000km – Diesel
DC Service Plan 5yr/90 000km – Diesel 4×4
