The next-generation Mitsubishi Triton is going on sale in South Africa in the second quarter of 2024, the manufacturer’s domestic subsidiary confirmed to TopAuto.
At launch, both the single and double-cab Triton will be offered to local buyers, but the club-cab is unlikely to make an introduction.
“The local demand for club cabs has systematically eroded over the last few years since a business owner can no longer claim VAT deduction on a club cab, as was previously the case, only single cabs [now] qualify,” said the company.
This saw the club-cab market share shrink to 6.84% out of all bakkie sales in 2022, according to Mitsubishi Motors South Africa (MMSA).
This same approach was followed with the current Triton, too, as it is only sold in one utilitarian single-cab trim and a range of more luxurious double cabs.
What to expect
While details on the new Triton’s local specifications are still light, the bakkie’s international launch in July afford plenty of opportunities to see what it might offer when it lands on our roads.
Like the outgoing model, the new Triton retains the brand’s signature 2.4-litre, turbo-diesel powerplant which is matched with the buyer’s choice between a six-speed manual or automatic transmission.
Depending on the model, the powertrain generates 110kW and 330Nm, 135kW and 430Nm, or a maximum of 150kW and 470Nm, and all three configurations are available in two-wheel and four-wheel drive (4WD).
Each version also benefits from a reworked suspension system with improved road-holding capabilities and ride comfort, an active limited-slip differential (LSD), as well as hill-start and descent assist.
Underpinning the 4WD derivatives is a sharpened version of the Super Select II and Easy Select systems, which sees the fitment of a centre torque-sensing LSD that directs 40% of power to the front axle and 60% to the rear, and for the first time, the Active Yaw Control programme that improves cornering performance by applying light braking to the inside front wheel when turning.
These Tritons also bring 2H (rear-wheel drive), 4H (full-time four-wheel drive), 4HLc (locked center differential), and 4LLc (locked center differential with low gear) settings, in addition to seven drive modes namely Normal, Eco, Gravel, Mud, Sand, Snow, and Rock.
For better control at low speeds, more feedback at high speeds, and additional safety and comfort, the flagship Triton now gets electric power steering instead of the previously-used hydraulic system, too.
Apart from the engine, the Mitsubishi’s ladder-frame chassis has been enhanced to achieve a bending rigidity increase of 40% and a torsional rigidity increase of 60% when compared to the fifth-generation model, and weight gain has been kept minimum through the use of more high-tensile steel.
These upgrades not only improve ride comfort and road performance, but also make the bakkie safer during a collision, said Mitsubishi.
Importantly, the load box grew 35mm in length to 1,555mm, and 44mm in width to 1,544mm, was lowered by 45mm to 820mm for easier access and loading, and the upper surface of the rear bumper corner was enlarged and reinforced with a frame to be used as a foot space.
Similar to the outgoing Triton, the new one is expected to retain its one-tonne payload capacity, though its towing capacity is expected to increase to 3,500kg, up from a maximum of 3,100kg, to be on par with the segment leaders.
While the foundation of the Triton saw an incremental enhancement from one iteration to the next, the look and features are certainly a generational leap.
The fresh-faced Triton still wears the brand’s “Dynamic Shield” grille but it has now been handed to the designers who have penned it to look more three-dimensional, and it is flanked by skinny three-light LED headlights and L-shaped daytime running lights, as opposed to the large halogen fixtures of old.
Additionally, the bakkie’s bumpers and sides incorporate more horizontal elements for a tougher appearance, while the raked windscreen and small rear spoiler improve aerodynamics.
Continuing the next-gen enhancements are extra-durable door handles that are now bigger and easier to grip, wider side steps with improved water drainage, hood lines that show exactly where the bakkie is pointed, and a more vertical A-pillar allowing the doors to open wider than before.
The exterior’s squared-off aesthetic is mirrored inside the new Triton with a flattened dashboard to improve outwards visibility, paired with rectangular aircon vents and horizontal rows of buttons for radio and aircon controls.
Moreover, the redesigned front seats provide better lower back support and more shoulder room to help reduce driver fatigue, and focus was placed on “professionals” through the addition of ample storage space, larger cupholders, file and tablet holders, and soft-touch pads in main contact areas.
Depending on the chosen variant, the Mitsubishi now comes with a touchscreen infotainment system that supports Mitsubishi Connect, which offers smartphone mirroring, a car finder, as well as the ability for owners to check the remaining fuel and oil volumes, drive history, the condition of the vehicle, and switch on cabin pre-conditioning before a trip directly from their smartphone.
The bakkie is also available with adaptive cruise control, forward-collision mitigation, blind-spot warning with lane-change assist, and rear-cross traffic alert.
A wide range of accessories has been created for the more discerning buyers, including a grille emblem, sports bar, wheel arch mouldings, bed liner, and side door and fuel-lid garnishing.
The final details surrounding the next-generation Triton, including its pricing, spec sheet, and model range, will be revealed closer to its launch date next year.
2024 Mitsubishi Triton
Keyword: When the next-generation Mitsubishi Triton is going on sale in South Africa