Mitsubishi Triton: Priced to yell!

What is it?

Mitsubishi’s Triton utility needs no introduction, with its Decepticon-like front styling.

It seems like the new model was only released a few months ago, yet it has already been updated.

Triton continues to sell well with a reputation for value, while Toyota’s Hilux and the Ford Ranger slug it out for the top two spots in this section of the market.

triton

What’s it cost?

Triton was updated in October, with the GLS gaining keyless entry and one-touch start, plus a rear diff lock for better off-road performance.

The 4×4 pickup range kicks off the GLX Double Cab, priced from $37,490, followed by the GLX + at $40,990, our GLS at $45,140, Toby Price Edition at $48,140 and the GLS Premium with an auto at $52,490.

Only the top spec GLS Premium comes with an auto, which adds $2500 to the price of other models.

GLS is equipped with a more sophisticated Super select II 4WD system, with selectable off-road modes and a rear differential lock.

The safety story is a strong one with a five-star rating, seven airbags including a driver’s knee bag, plus Forward Collision Mitigation system (FCM) with pedestrian detection, Lane Departure Warning (LDW), Blind Spot Warning (BSW), Lane Change Assist (LCA), Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA), Ultrasonic misacceleration Mitigation System (UMS).

They certainly don’t make ’em like they used to — thank goodness.

There’s cloth trim, dual zone climate air, rear-view camera, LED headlights, cruise control, speed limiter, side steps, front and rear parking sensors, auto high beam, auto lights and wipers and an auto dimming rear view mirror.

The 7.0-inch touchscreen includes DAB digital radio, with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto phone connectivity, but alas it’ doesn’t make the short list of models that qualify for satellite navigation.

Our test vehicle was also equipped with an optional tonneau and a bullbar (that enhances rather than detracts from the look).

triton

What’s it go like?

This version of Triton feels more like a traditional 4×4 than a smooth, road-going vehicle, with jiggly suspension and rubbery steering.

Like most utes, it’s also fitted with rear drum brakes.

It’s fairly responsive to the throttle though.

Seating in the front is reasonably comfy, with a steering wheel that is both height and reach adjustable.

Rear legroom is not generous, but at least the seat back is inclined, and there’s a fold down centre arm rest and two USB ports in the back.

There’s a couple more USB and an HDMI port in the front too.

The 2.4-litre four cylinder turbo diesel produces 133kW of power and 430Nm of torque, and in our test vehicle was paired with a 6-speed auto, complete with paddle shifts.

The new 6-speed tranny features a taller top gear optimised to lower revs at higher speeds, making it a quieter and more comfortable over long distances.

GLS rides on 18 inch alloys, with 265/60 Dunlop rubber, with double wishbones, coil springs and stabiliser bar at the front, and traditional leaf-springs supporting the back which is better for carrying loads.

The Super-Select 4WD-II system offers 2H (rear-wheel drive), 4H (full-time 4WD), 4HLc (lock up) and 4LLc (lock up in low gear) modes to deliver optimum traction and handling characteristics over all surfaces.

In low range you get to choose from Gravel, Mud/Snow, Sand or Rock modes.

While on-road performance is so so, it all comes together nicely off road where we rate the Triton a confident medium duty proposition.

With 220mm of ground clearance and protection underneath, it had no problems with our favourite fire trail, which includes some challenging rocky sections.

Not one oops moment.

The system regulates the amount of wheel slip to maximise all-terrain performance and self-extraction capability from poor road conditions.

Rated at 8.6L/100km, we were getting 7.1L/100km from the 75-litre tank after 370km.