JOHANNESBURG – In an exciting development for both Mitsubishi Motors South Africa and automotive enthusiasts, the all-new Next-Gen Mitsubishi Triton has been announced as a finalist in the 2025 Car of the Year (COTY) competition. This announcement, made by the South African Guild of Mobility Journalists (SAGMJ), marks another significant milestone for the Triton as it competes for both the coveted title of 2025 Car of the Year and honours in the highly competitive bakkie and 4×4 categories.
The 2025 COTY finalists are drawn from an impressive pool of 70 new models launched in South Africa during 2024, which collectively boast a remarkable 243 derivatives. Among these, only 20 models have earned their place on the finalist list. The Triton’s inclusion in this esteemed group speaks volumes about its standout appeal, comprehensive capabilities, and the strength of its proposition in a diverse and competitive automotive landscape.
The evolution of the COTY competition has introduced category-based honours in addition to the overall winner, allowing a more nuanced and relevant evaluation of the best automotive models available. This approach has brought greater visibility to vehicles that excel in specific segments, while still competing for the ultimate recognition as the 2025 Car of the Year.
A Worthy Contender in the Bakkie Category
South Africa’s affinity for bakkies has long been well known. These versatile vehicles serve not only as workhorses, but as essential family vehicles and leisure companions as well. The Next-Gen Mitsubishi Triton is uniquely positioned to fulfill all of these roles. According to Jeffrey Allison, General Manager: Marketing at Mitsubishi Motors South Africa (MMSA), “The South African bakkie market is unique and highly competitive due to the fact that for South Africans, bakkies fill multiple roles. The Next-Gen Mitsubishi Triton is able to perfectly fulfil all these roles, and I believe that is something that will count in its favour when the judging commences.”
The Triton is a well-rounded competitor, combining robust off-road capabilities, roomy interior, and eye-catching design. The model offers exceptional value for money, with competitive pricing and a comprehensive range of features as standard. Mitsubishi’s Diamond Advantage Warranty, which covers a five-year/unlimited mileage period along with a five-year/90,000 km service plan, enhances the overall value proposition by offering long-term peace of mind.
International Recognition and Local Triumph
This recognition of the Triton as a COTY finalist builds on a series of prestigious awards the vehicle has earned globally. Since its international debut a year ago, the sixth-generation Mitsubishi Triton has collected accolades such as the RJC Car of the Year special award in Japan, an iF Design Award 2024 in product design, and the 2023 Good Design Award from the Japan Institute of Design Promotion. Locally, the Triton has already made an impact, winning the Bakkie of the Year at the TopGear South Africa Awards shortly after its South African launch.
Judging Process: A Rigorous Test of Excellence
Following the announcement of the COTY finalists, a two-day testing process will be held by the Jury, consisting of leading journalists and automotive experts. During this time, the finalists will be evaluated in detail, with scoring focused on performance, design, safety, value for money, and suitability for South African conditions. The Next-Gen Mitsubishi Triton will compete not only in the bakkie category, but will also vie for the prestigious overall 2025 Car of the Year title.
“The SAGMJ COTY is one of the most prestigious automotive awards in the country as new vehicles are voted for and then stringently judged by journalists representing a wide variety of automotive publications,” says Allison. “Being nominated as a finalist is a great accolade, and we are confident that the Next-Gen Triton will suitably impress judges during the upcoming testing days.”
As anticipation builds for the final results, the Next-Gen Mitsubishi Triton has already established itself as a standout contender. Its blend of advanced features, off-road performance, and affordability makes it a formidable player in South Africa’s highly competitive bakkie segment, with the potential to secure the 2025 Car of the Year title.
About Mitsubishi Motors South Africa:
Mitsubishi Motors South Africa (MMSA) is committed to providing South African drivers with vehicles that are built to last and capable of tackling any challenge. From their rugged SUVs and bakkies to their sleek passenger models, Mitsubishi continues to bring innovation, reliability, and value to South African roads.
The Next-Gen Mitsubishi Triton has proven its worth globally, and now, it’s aiming for a well-deserved win in South Africa’s prestigious Car of the Year competition. With its combination of practicality, style, and value, the Triton is more than just a finalist – it’s a vehicle that could redefine the bakkie market in the years to come.
