Following the launch of its Eclipse Cross in SA, Mitsubishi turns its attention to its commercial unit with the launch of its new muscular-styled Triton.
Celebrating four decades with a tough new look and a host of enhanced exterior and interior features, the 2019 Triton also has an all-new 6-speed automatic transmission.
Although most of the changes are “under the skin”, the new Triton will be immediately recognisable thanks to its bold and tough-looking new face.
Apart from the new transmission, the new Triton also boasts more powerful styling that incorporates the latest iteration of the Dynamic Shield front design concept; an enhanced 4WD system that delivers improved off-road performance, and the latest in active safety and driver assistance systems.
Design
The new face incorporates the new-generation “Dynamic Shield” front design concept. The high hood line and beefier-looking headlights located higher up give the new model a more powerful and imposing frontal appearance.
Newly sculpted body curves with contrasting sharp lines, extended wheel flares and bright accents embody the strength of a full-size Mitsubishi Motors bakkie and add a modern twist.
The lighting and bumper parts become part of the tough design, framing the front and rear designs and adding visual width.
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Power and performance
The Triton combines Mitsubishi’s powerful tried and tested 2.4L MIVEC Turbo Diesel Engine with the all-new 6-Speed auto with Intelligent Shift Control, delivering the optimum balance of engine power, fuel economy and interior quietness with smooth acceleration at low engine revolutions. A 6-speed Manual Transmission is available as well.
Engine
The new Triton retains its 2.4-litre turbodiesel for the latest generation, including; 133kW/430Nm, fuel consumption 7.5-litre/100km (7.6litres/100 km for the new 6-speed automatic).
The latest Triton also benefits from the following:
• Super Select II 4WD System
• Electronic Off-road Assistance
• Hill Descent Control
• Rear Diff Lock - 3100kg Towing Mass (Braked)
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Off-road performance
The new Triton 4WD models are fitted with Mitsubishi’s latest Super-Select II 4WD, which delivers optimum traction and handling characteristics for any given surface, delivering improved off-road performance.
• Turning radius – 5.9m
• Ground clearance – 220 mm
• 28º Approach Angle
• 23º Departure Angle
• 25º Ramp Breakover Angle
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New Off-road Mode
The latest version Super Select II 4WD system is used with an Off-road Mode available on the automatic transmission derivatives. The Off-road mode has gravel, mud/snow, sand and rock 4LLc only) settings for improved traction on different road surfaces.
When engaged, Off-road Mode integrally controls engine power, transmission and braking to regulate the amount of wheel slip, thereby maximising all-terrain performance and self-extraction performance in mud or snow.
The 4H drive mode distributes torque in a 40:60 ratio between the front and rear wheels via a Torsen limited-slip device for safer on-road driving in slippery conditions such as gravel and wet roads. 4HLc (4WD High range with CD locked) distributes torque equally between the front and rear wheels for improved traction on sand, dirt and snow. 4LLc (4WD Low range with CD locked) provides greater torque for extreme off-road conditions.
Cabin
The latest version of the descendent of the mighty Dakar conqueror that has earned a reputation as an unbreakable, tough, durable and reliable 4x4 over the years, has also received a major upgrade to the luxury and comfort of the cabin.
The restyled inside of the new Triton expresses a modern and robust feeling with new frame surroundings for the switch panel and air outlets. A high-quality look is created by soft pad materials and stitching on the floor console, armrests and parking brake.
Interior
Other interior elements making it significantly more competitive include an enhanced 4WD system boasting electronic Off-road Assistance mode that delivers improved off-road performance, and the latest in active safety and driver assistance systems.
The new interior boasts:
• Tilt and Telescopic Adjustable Steering Column
• Multi-function Leather Steering Wheel with Audio and Cruise Control
• Bluetooth with Hands-free Voice Control
• Touch-screen Radio/CD and MP3 Player
• Infotainment System with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto (Optional)
• Dual-zone Automatic Air-conditioning
• Electric Windows
• USB and Accessory Sockets
• Leather Seats
• Electrically Adjustable Driver Seat
• Chromatic Rear-View Mirror
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Safety features
The new Triton is “Engineered Beyond Tough” and retains the current model’s ultra-durable and highly reliable ladder-type frame and high impact-safety cabin structure while featuring class-leading advanced active safety and driver assistance systems, including:
• RISE (Reinforced Impact Safety Evolution) Body Construction
• 7 Airbags
• Side-impact Protection Bars
• Collapsible Steering Column
• ISOFIX Child Seat Anchors
• ASTC (Active Stability and Traction Control)
• ABS (Anti-lock Braking System)
• EBD (Electronic Brake-force Distribution)
• BAS (Brake Assist System)
• HSA (Hill Start Assist System)
• DRL (Daytime Running Lights)
• Speed-sensing Auto Door Lock
• Rear View Camera
• Keyless Operating System
• High-mounted Rear Stop Lamp (Tailgate)
Electronic off-road assistance
To further enhance the off-road experience provided by the unique Super Select II 4WD System, Hill Descent Control has been added to the 4x4 Automatic Transmission derivative for additional safety when on dangerous ground.
Vehicle speed is electronically controlled to allow the driver to negotiate steep or slippery descents more safely and with more assurance.
In addition, the selectable Off-road Mode maximises traction on unsealed surfaces. This allows the driver to select either the Gravel, Mud/Snow or Sand mode in 4HLc to suit surface conditions and optimise engine output, transmission settings and braking for superior traction.
An additional Rock setting can be engaged in 4LLc which makes the new Triton virtually unstoppable.
Range and prices:
Triton 2.4L DI-DC M/T 4x2 – R509 995
Triton 2.4L DI-DC A/T 4x2 – R529 995
Triton 2.4L DI-DC M/T 4x4 – R569 995
Triton 2.4L DI-DC A/T 4x4 – R589 995
Warranty and service:
The new Triton is covered by Mitsubishi’s Manufacturer’s Warranty of 3 years or 100 000km and a 5-year or 90 000 km Service Plan and a 5-year or unlimited mileage Roadside Assistance. Service intervals are every 10 000km.
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