The 2019 Mitsubishi Triton is expected to go on sale in March/April 2019, with a modern facelift and some interesting new features. The new Triton looks larger and has a more dominant look with a completely different front, featuring sharp edges and redesigned headlights. The Triton has always had a distinctive rear; however the new facelift has taken on the same look at the back as other South African bakkies and looks very similar to a Ford Ranger. Pricing has not yet been confirmed for SA but it should be expected to start at around R480 000.
Besides a facelift, what else has been updated on the Mitsubishi Triton?
The answer is actually quite a lot. Mitsubishi has taken a major leap into advanced safety and has also given the Triton a more advanced 4x4 system. They have even gone so far as to change the suspension and brakes for a better ride, comfort and performance.
As for safety, the Mitsubishi Triton will deliver some of the latest safety systems available in driver assist systems such as Rear Cross Traffic Alert, Blind Spot Warning, Forward Collision Mitigation and Multi Around Monitor with parking sensors. This is a lot more than most South African bakkies have to offer. The Triton also has seven airbags: dual front airbags, side airbags, driver knee airbags and curtain airbags.
Mitsubishi’s new 4x4 system comes with different terrain options such as Gravel, Mud/Snow, Sand and Rock. Hill descent control will make sure the Triton gets down steep elevations safely. Braking performance has also been made more effective, with larger front brake discs and calipers that have been added along with larger suspension dampers to improve ride quality and comfort.
The interior has a more modern material with gloss black finishes around the infotainment area and a slightly different dashboard layout. Soft touch materials have been set throughout the cabin. The touch screen infotainment system is easy to use and has the keyless push start/stop option.
Engine specs for the Mitsubishi Triton
The new facelift keeps the 2.4 litre turbocharged diesel, which cranks out 133kW/430Nm and manages to get the Triton from a standstill to 100km in 10.4 seconds. The engine is strong and responsive and is now also available in a 6-speed automatic transmission, which should make the daily commute easier and could also lower fuel consumption. Not bad fuel consumption for a bakkie, with an average 7.6L/100km.
Verdict for Mitsubishi’s facelift on the Triton
The Mitsubishi Triton has always been an underrated bakkie in the South African market, due mainly to its looks and dated appearance. However, Mitsubishi’s facelift has really stepped up the game, especially when it comes to looks and features. The Triton is hard to fault when it comes to reliability and performance with a strong engine that manages to make off-road tasks easier then they should be. The cabin is fairly modern and the ride quality is really good, which would be topped off with the 6-speed automatic as a comfortable cruiser on road.
Overall the Triton’s facelift along with one of the cheapest price tags for a double-cab bakkie, has created some hard-to-beat competition for other automotive brands in this segment.
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