The rugged and powerful Mitsubishi Triton just became more attainable

The new Mitsubishi Triton double cab bakkie has become more attainable with the introduction of the entry-level GL 4x2 model. Designed for both commercial and individual customers in South Africa, the current generation has been around for the last seven years, featuring exceptional power, superb performance both on- and off-road, high-end safety, good towing capability, and modern technologies.

Mitsubishi divides the Triton range into 4x2, 4x4, and Xtreme grades – all powered by a 2.4-litre turbodiesel engine. The refined and super-responsive mill creates 100kW and 324NM of torque for the entry-level GL model, while all other models pump out peak power of 133kW at 3500 rpm and 430Nm of torque at 2500 rpm for both manual and automatic gearboxes.

The GL 4x2 single cab and double cab models are available with a manual gearbox only, while all other trim levels give you a choice between manual and automatic.

Mitsubishi mentions 8.0 litres per 100km fuel economy rating for the new GL. Other variants sip fuel at a different rate, and the most efficient is DI-DC M/T 4x2 with 7.5L/100Km fuel economy.

With the available power and torque, the GL bakkie can tow 1,750 kg, whereas other models have a braked towing capability of 3,100 kg.

Perhaps, the best part of the Triton is the Super Select II 4WD system offering confident on-road and off-road performance. It lets you change between 4WD and 2WD while driving up to 100 km/h, giving you better control on varied surfaces and weather conditions.

The system features four settings and a rear diff lock to manage almost all terrains – from smooth highways to extreme, risky terrains with very little grip.

You can change settings through the switch on the centre console that mentions:

• 2H - High Range 2WD primarily sends power to the rear wheels, reducing the Triton’s fuel consumption under normal conditions.
• 4H - 4WD Full-Time directs power to all the wheels, enabling the vehicle to manage rocky terrains and hazardous situations.
• 4HLC - 4WD High Range with Locked Centre Differential is perfect for rough surfaces with little grip to assist in lessening the wheel spin.
• 4LCC - 4WD Low Range with Locked Centre Differential is ideal for off-roading providing the best traction on steep ascents, thick snow, and sand.

The Triton received a five-star rating by the ANCAP in 2015. While it wasn’t crash tested after that, we can tell the safety features have advanced since then.

The GL just comes with dual-front airbags, ABS with EBD, and ISOFIX child seat anchor points. However, the amenities advance as we move up the trim level. All other models come equipped with seven airbags, active stability and traction control, brake assist system, hill start assist, electronic off-road assistance, hill descent control, speed sensing auto door lock, and a rearview camera.

The new 2022 Triton GL starts at R485,990, which is close to its rivals, such as the GWM P-Series, Mahindra Pik Up, and the Isuzu D-Max. For towing heavy loads or off-roading, we recommend 4x4 or Xtreme models that retail between R659,990 and R748,990. Mitsubishi offers a 5-year/90,000km service plan and a 3-year/100,000km warranty. (Prices correct at time of publication.)

Mitsubishi has developed the Triton for both individual and commercial users. The addition of the GL with an affordable price tag, a solid build quality, and the same looks as other models gives SA bakkie buyers another reason to consider the Triton.

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Please note the imagery supplied in this blog was taken off www.mitsubishi-motors.co.za