A

lthough aesthetic appeal used to almost inconsequential in the bakkie market, kerb appeal is a must-have attribute these days!

Solid performance

Mitsubishi's all-new 2.4-litre turbodiesel has been quite the revelation. With peak outputs of 133 kW and 430 Nm, it provides good tractability; we've been impressed with its refinement and economy. Mitsubishi claims the Triton will consume 7.3 L/100 km and during the bakkie's tenure in our fleet (during which time it did a lot of commuting), we saw an indicated 8.5 L/100 km. Meanwhile, the 6-speed manual transmission has a light clutch pedal action, but the gearshift throw feels like that of most other bakkies: long and a tad vague, at least compared with other passenger vehicles/family cars. Thanks to the flexible engine, however, you won't need to constantly work the gear knob to keep up with the flow of traffic.

Off-road skills

Seeing that the test unit had an all-wheel-drive configuration, we'd be remiss if we failed to mention the Mitsubishi's quartet of Super Select drive modes (2H, 4H, 4Hlc and 4LLc), which include low range and the ability to lock both centre and rear differentials. It's an easy system to operate as you simply come to a stop, engage neutral and select your driving mode. Once you're in the desired offroad mode, you can carry on driving and the Triton will impress if you take if on a serious trail. Remember not to ride the clutch!

In terms of the numbers, the Mitsubishi Triton has a claimed ground clearance of 215 mm, an approach angle of 28 degrees, a departure angle of 22 degrees and a break-over angle of 25 degrees, which are credible numbers.

Standard specification

At this price point of R500 000, you should be getting a fair whack of standard features. The Mitsubishi Triton does not disappoint in this regard as the vehicle comes standard with dual-zone climate control, comprehensive entertainment system, park assist with reverse camera, and leather seats, but strangely there was no cruise control.

Not enough safety

These days there's a massive focus on safety when it comes to vehicles and we find it strange that the new Mitsubishi Triton can only muster just a driver and passenger airbag. All of its rivals offer up to 6 airbags, and in some cases, 7.

Verdict
The Mitsubishi Triton, now in its 5th generation, has proven to be a surprisingly good bakkie in terms of offroad skillset and day-to-day comfort. In manual guise it's pleasant enough, but given how user-friendly the 5-speed automatic gearbox is, we'd advise people to fork out that bit extra for the clutchless option.

There's definitely enough kit and gadgets given its asking price and we felt that the cabin was spacious and comfortable, despite the vehicle's size which is fractionally smaller than its rivals. It drives well and certainly looks the part, and you're going to be brimming with confidence if you decide to head offroad, knowing that it's going to take a lot to get a Triton stuck. We were impressed with its handling traits on both gravel and tarmac.

With that in mind, we feel that the Triton is arguably the best product that Mitsubishi produces right now, but we're surprised that its Italian sibling, the Fiat Fullback, is matching it on sales. As a newcomer, we feel it offers enough to convince a good few South African motorists to consider it instead of the ever popular Toyota and Ford offerings.

To Buy or get a Quote 

This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.