The true dark horse
In a world ruled by Hiluxes, Amaroks and Rangers, one bakkie doesn’t get as much attention as it deserves. Yes, the new Triton might have the public on polar opposites, yet it provides a worthy value-for-money package.
These days, bakkies are quite an expensive purchase, with some of the newest luxury double-cabs even exceeding the R1 million mark. Well, for just over half of that, the new Triton 2.4L DI-DC A/T 4×4 can be yours for exactly R589,995… including a 3-year / 100,000km warranty, 5-year / 90,000km service plan and a 5-year / unlimited mileage roadside assistance.
Sure, this does not include the latest technology, but to our mind, it does exactly what is asked of it. Yes, at times the sunlight bounces off the newly introduced infotainment screen (now with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto) and any leather specialist might look skew at the pleather rounding of the seats, but these are both minor issues in comparison to what the overall package offers.
With its Super Select II 4WD system and overall off-road capabilities, the Triton is slightly lower to the ground than its main competitors (at 220mm), however it is capable of taking on a 28-degree approach angle, 23-degree departure angle, and a 225-degree break over angle. It can also tow 3,100kg (unbraked).
Not bad at all.
With 133kW at 3,500rpm and 430Nm at 2,500rpm, the power output might not necessarily be as good as competitors, but then again, bakkies are not meant to truly fight for a 0-100km/h time.
Ed: Ironically, our test unit was the fastest four-cylinder turbo-diesel double cab we’ve ever tested…
Rather, fuel economy (with an average of 8.7 liter per 100km) and general comfort on the open roads should play more of a deciding factor.
Compared to a 10-speed automatic bakkie we recently tested, the 6-speed automatic in the Triton seems a bit noisier under strain, but proves to be calm, quiet and seamless when travelling at low speeds or under low strain from the right foot.
The new Triton comes with class-leading specifications like seven airbags, ISOFIX child seat anchor points, ABS brakes with EBD, brake assist, active stability control, hill start assist, daytime running lights, auto door locks, a rear view camera, keyless entry, electronic off-road assistance, hill descent control, rear diff lock, LED headlamps, and 18” alloy wheels.
Probably the biggest leap forward has to be the interior design and improvement of the infotainment system. Other luxuries include a multi-functional steering wheel, Bluetooth, USB point, electrically adjustable driver sear and voice control.
Cabin space is also sufficient with adult passengers having ample space in the front and back.
We thoroughly enjoyed the new Triton and believe that it should have a bigger market share. However, potential bakkie owners are much more focused on the leading two brands and miss the dark horses on the market.
Next time you are in the market for a comfortable and capable bakkie, do please consider a Mitsubishi Triton. It might just be worth the deviation.