Next Mitsubishi Triton to arrive at dealers early 2017, said to be worth the wait

Triton confirmed for SA

Mitsubishi Motors South Africa has confirmed the local introduction of its all-new Triton SU (Sport Utility).  It has been a long wait, but the company says it will be worth the wait.

The Mitsubishi Triton will be 10 years old before the new one is to arrive at dealers in February 2017.  Also, rather strangely, the Fiat Fullback which is this new Mitsubishi Triton with Fiat badges, has already been available on the local bakkie market for months (since mid 2016).

New engine performance

Triton will receive new engine performance thanks to Mitsubishi’s latest-generation 2.4-litre 4-cylinder DOHC MIVEC 16-valve turbocharged common-rail diesel engine. 

This all-new engine is said to be “super responsive” with a class-leading low compression ratio of 15.5:1, supplemented by a variable geometry turbocharger as well as Mitsubishi’s proprietary engine mapping.  It can be paired with Mitsubishi’s latest 6-speed manual or 5-speed automatic gearbox, and the buyer’s option of 2- or 4x4 drive available on both.

Peak power is 133 kW at 3500 r/min and 430 Nm at 2500 rpm for torque, with more than 350 Nm available from 1500.  This combination provides a substantial improvement in low-end torque of over 25% compared to the previous 2.5-litre turbo diesel engine which was fitted to the outgoing Triton range.
 
“Our new lightweight turbo diesel engine is fitted with Mitsubishi’s latest generation MIVEC technology and weighs 30kg less than its predecessor, resulting in improved responsiveness, fuel consumption, handling, cornering and braking performance,” says the General Manager of Mitsubishi Motors South Africa.

Super Select II 4WD

Buyers who opt for the 4x4 drivetrain will get to sample the latest version of Mitsubishi’s widely acclaimed Super Select II 4WD system.  This state-of-the-art system is unique to Mitsubishi and offers 4 intelligent driving modes which can be engaged from the electronic drive-selector situated inside the cabin.  This multi-function setup gives drivers precise control in challenging weather conditions or on loose surfaces with low-range modes, including a rear diff-lock, which is essential for tackling tough and technical off-road obstacles.
 
One of the Triton’s popular and versatile modes distributes torque in a 40:60 ratio between front and rear axles via a centre differential which not only makes the Triton SU perform like a true SUV on gravel and wet slippery roads, but dramatically improves cornering performance.  Mitsubishi  says the revised distribution delivers greater mechanical durability than the traditional 50:50 configuration used by other 4x4 competitors.

SU

The comprehensively revised suspension contributes to a stable and soothing ride that one would previously have associated with a passenger car or SUV.  This is where the SU (Sport Utility) comes in.

Minimised body roll translates into precise handling and cabin noise is reduced using noise absorbing and damping materials in key areas of the vehicle.  Triton’s best-in-class turning radius of 5.9 metres compares to the manoeuvrability of mid-sized sedans.

The Triton SU’s ergonomically-designed cabin combines the interior comfort of a passenger car with the functionality of a multi-purpose utility vehicle, as is the trend in today’s bakkie designs.

The J-line design of the double cab results in class-leading interior space with plenty of leg and headroom, while the wider interior angle of the side windows gives additional shoulder space.

The Triton SU’s Reinforced Impact Safety Evolution (RISE) body construction features high-tensile steel to absorb energy and maintain cabin integrity.  Pretensioners tighten the seatbelts in a collision, restraining the occupants and allowing the airbags to work effectively.  Active Stability with Traction Control, ABS and Electronic Brake Force Distribution give the driver added control in emergency situations.
 
“International reports have already found the Triton SU to be the most car-like pick-up to drive.  Fitted with a new-generation lightweight diesel engine, upgraded suspension and reduced NVH levels, this new sport utility will impress owners with a comfortable ride that hasn’t compromised those workhorse principles and multi-purpose functionality”.

Mitsubishi has sold over 4 million pick-ups, including the Mitsubishi Colt (as it was known in South Africa) and Triton, in over 150 countries across the globe.

The Triton SU SA model line-up

The SA model line-up will be 4 models of double cab, made up of 4x2 or 4x4, both in manual or auto, and all in GLX specification level.

Don’t think we’ll get the “Barbarian” trim level as sold in other countries, though.