Mitsubishi Triton: A Fresh Contender Shakes Up the Bakkie Battlefield
The late 2024 arrival of the Next-Gen Mitsubishi Triton has injected a dose of fresh competition into South Africa's fiercely contested bakkie segment. It's not just a subtle refresh; it's a complete overhaul, a clear statement of intent from Mitsubishi.
The "Beast Mode" design, with its sharp lines and aggressive stance, immediately sets it apart from its predecessor and the current crop of competitors. It's a bakkie that demands attention, projecting an image of rugged capability, and a modern aesthetic that stands out from the crowd.
This bold new look is characterized by a number of key design elements. The front end is dominated by the "Dynamic Shield" grille, flanked by sleek LED headlights that give the Triton a predatory stare. The sculpted hood and muscular fenders further enhance its imposing presence. Even the rear taillights have been redesigned with a T-shaped motif that emphasizes the Triton's width and adds a touch of modern flair.
Inside, the Triton's cabin reflects a focus on functionality and durability, but with a noticeable uplift in refinement. The horizontal dashboard layout is clean and uncluttered, prioritizing ease of use. Materials are robust, designed to withstand the rigors of both work and play, but there's also a greater use of soft-touch surfaces and higher quality trim compared to the previous generation.
The infotainment system, while not groundbreaking, is intuitive and integrates seamlessly with modern smartphones. The increased cabin width is a genuine benefit, providing ample space for passengers, and the seats themselves offer improved comfort and support.
Under the hood, the new 4N16 turbodiesel engine offers a noticeable improvement in performance. It's a responsive and torquey unit, providing ample power for both on-road and off-road driving. With 135kW and 430Nm of torque on tap, it feels eager and capable, whether you're navigating city traffic or tackling a challenging off-road trail.
The six-speed automatic transmission is smooth and efficient, always seeming to find the right gear at the right time. For those who prefer a more involved driving experience, the manual option is also available.
But it's off-road where the Triton truly shines. The revised chassis and suspension, combined with the Super Select 4WD-II system, make it a formidable performer in challenging terrain. This system allows for seamless switching between 2H, 4H, and 4LLc modes, providing optimal traction and control in various conditions.
The addition of Active Yaw Control, a technology derived from Mitsubishi's rally heritage, further enhances stability and handling, particularly when cornering on loose surfaces. The Triton feels composed and confident off-road, inspiring confidence even in challenging situations.
Mitsubishi has also made significant strides in terms of technology and safety. The inclusion of modern features like adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and a comprehensive suite of airbags demonstrates a commitment to driver and passenger safety. The "Diamond Advantage" warranty, with its five-year/unlimited mileage coverage, provides peace of mind.
The diverse model range, including the special edition Athlete, Edition 46, and Xtreme Edition variants, caters to a wide range of buyers. Whether you're an urban adventurer, a hardcore off-road enthusiast, or simply seeking a versatile and capable everyday bakkie, there's a Triton to suit your needs. The lowered load bin and increased towing capacity further enhance the Triton's practicality, making it a truly versatile workhorse.
While the Triton may not be the most luxurious or technologically advanced bakkie on the market, it excels in the areas that matter most to South African buyers: ruggedness, reliability, and off-road capability. It's a bakkie that's built to tackle any challenge, and its bold new design ensures it stands out from the crowd.
Given its very recent arrival, it is still early to fully determine its long term success, however, initial impressions are very strong. The inclusion as a finalist in the 2025 South African Car of the Year competition is a testament to its potential. It is a very strong contender in a very competitive segment.
Mitsubishi Triton 2.4 GL 4×4 Manual D/C – R639 990
Mitsubishi Triton 2.4 GLS 4×2 Auto D/C – R679 990
Mitsubishi Triton 2.4 GLS 4×4 Manual D/C – R739 990
Mitsubishi Triton 2.4 GLS 4×4 Auto D/C – R759 990
Mitsubishi Triton 2.4 Xtreme 4×2 Auto D/C – R769 990
Mitsubishi Triton 2.4 Athlete 4×2 Auto D/C – R779 990
Mitsubishi Triton 2.4 Xtreme 4×4 Auto D/C – R849 990
Mitsubishi Triton 2.4 Athlete 4×4 Auto D/C – R859 990
Mitsubishi Triton 2.4 Edition 46 4×4 Auto D/C – R889 990
The new Triton comes standard with a new Diamond Advantage Warranty including a 5-year/unlimited mileage, unrestricted warranty, 5-year/90 000 km service plan with intervals every 10 000 km as well as 5-year/unlimited mileage roadside assistance.
Also worth a look: the Mitsubishi Outlander Sport: Mitsubishi's Value Punch in the and the Mitsubishi Triton: It's Finally Here and It Means Business.
FAQ
Q: What does the Mitsubishi Triton cost in South Africa?
The new Mitsubishi Triton starts at around R589,900 for the base single cab model, with double cab variants ranging from R649,900 to R749,900 depending on specification and trim level.
Q: Is the Mitsubishi Triton worth buying compared to other bakkies?
The Triton offers excellent value with its 135kW turbodiesel engine, comprehensive warranty package, and competitive pricing that undercuts rivals like the Ford Ranger and Toyota Hilux by R50,000 to R80,000 in comparable trim levels.
Q: What are the main problems with the Mitsubishi Triton?
The main concerns include limited service network coverage compared to Toyota and Ford, lower resale values historically, and some interior materials that feel less premium than German or Japanese competitors despite the recent improvements.
Q: How reliable is the new Mitsubishi Triton engine?
The 4N16 turbodiesel engine has proven reliable in global markets with proper maintenance, backed by Mitsubishi's 5-year/90,000km warranty, though long-term reliability data for the new generation is still developing.
Q: What is the fuel consumption of the Mitsubishi Triton?
The Triton achieves a claimed fuel consumption of 7.8 litres per 100km on the combined cycle, which translates to realistic real-world consumption of around 9-10 litres per 100km depending on driving conditions and load.
Should You Buy It?
The best value-for-money double cab bakkie under R700,000 in South Africa is the Mitsubishi Triton GLX-R at R689,900. Yes, you should seriously consider buying it if you want a capable, well-equipped bakkie without paying premium prices. The Triton delivers 135kW of turbodiesel power, comprehensive safety features, and a 5-year warranty at prices that significantly undercut the Ford Ranger Wildtrak (R849,900) and Toyota Hilux 2.8 GD-6 (R764,900). While it may lack the brand prestige and service network breadth of its German and Japanese rivals, the new Triton offers genuine bakkie capability with modern refinement at prices that make financial sense. For fleet buyers and value-conscious private customers, it's a compelling package that deserves a test drive before you sign on the dotted line for anything else.
