Mitsubishi Triton will arrive in South Africa mid 2016
Mitsubishi has confirmed that the new Triton bakkie will be coming to South Africa in mid 2016. This timing will see it become one of the last of the new bakkies to market as top sellers Ford Ranger and Toyota Hilux will have a slim headstart over the Mitsubishi Triton.
“We are delighted to confirm the introduction of the all-new Triton in the local market. In countries where it’s already been launched, automotive journalists who have driven the new Triton were extremely complimentary about the quiet car-like drive it offers. The softer and quieter SUV type ride, complemented by the functionality of a traditional load bin, prompted Mitsubishi’s engineers to label it a Sport Utility Truck (SUT),” says Wynand Pretorius, Chief Operations Officer (COO) of MMSA.
The fifth generation Mitsubishi Triton is believed to be quieter and offer increased comfort thanks to re-shaped seats but we’re most interested in the looks. Yes, style has become an important consideration in the bakkie segment and the last Triton failed miserable with BT50 levels of ugliness. Styling for the new model has turned conventional and indirectly led to aerodynamic improvements – it certainly won’t draw such indifference as the first one – while promising a more spacious cabin.
A completely overhauled suspension sees stiffer springs and stabilisers with extended leaf springs. Together they reduce body roll, sharpen handling response and provide a quieter ride. A turning circle of 5.9 metres is the best in segment.
Ahead of the bigger load bin Mitsubishi’s cabin comes with cruise control, keyless operation, dual zone climate, navigation and electrically adjusted driver’s seat – all to its top model. This compliments a higher level of cabin quality.
Balancing performance and consumption is the job of a new-generation 2.4-litre turbo diesel with 133kW and 430Nm. An aluminium cylinder block reduces mass by around 30 kilograms and that makes the new Mitsubishi Triton steer with more agility and less effort. A new 5-speed automatic and six-speed assists with lowering consumption.
