Mitsubishi Triton Adventure test drive review

May 31, 2019

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Like the previous best selling Triton, this all new Triton comes with class-leading ride and handling levels, and a 2.4L diesel engine that takes on the rivals with ease. A common design theme in the truck segment has been the simple box-like styling until the Triton came along and changed that some 8 years ago and now the new Triton comes with chunky sharp edge styling in line with what buyers want (an American looking pickup truck).

In this regard this new Triton has lifted the bar on its rivals with its wide, chunky and muscular styling. But it is the nose that attracts all the attention. Chrome filled and aggressive, it is the new Triton look that many admire.

Under the squared hood

With peak power of 181PS and maximum torque of 430 Nm this MIVEC 2.4L diesel engine with VVT technology is no slouch. It features 16-valves, double overhead camshafts, second-generation common rail technology and a variable nozzle turbocharger which is said to deliver much lower emissions as well as better power.

This Triton’s four-wheel drive system is driver-selectable via an easy to use rotary switch on the centre console and confirmed by a dashboard mode indicator. In 2WD, drive is delivered to the rear wheels, but once four-wheel drive (4H) is electrically engaged, torque is split on a 50/50 basis between the front and rear axles to cope with slippery conditions. With 4H selected this Triton can be still be driven on the bitumen much like an AWD vehicle, providing an additional level of safety and surefootedness in slippery conditions. For real off-road work, 4L can be selected. Steering is power-assisted rack and pinion, while the braking system has ventilated discs up front, and, like most in the segment, drums at the rear.

Safety equipment high

Mitsubishi provides 7- SRS airbags in this new Triton and it has seats for 5 passengers, so all are very well looked after. Also included is Forward Collision Mitigation, Blind Spot Warning with Lane Change Assist, Rear Cross Traffic Alert Auto High Beam, ABS with EBD and Brake Assist all as standard features. It also has been awarded a ASEAN NCAP 5-Star safety rating.

Interior features

This Triton arrives to challenge the segment leader in interior comfort. Yes, truck owners now want added comfort in their utility vehicles and for those truck buyers who never venture off-road, they want a family friendly vehicle and this Triton delivers.

The front seats are comfortable and supportive with an adjustable driver’s seat cushion making all the difference, something that is, unbelievably, still not a feature in some of its rivals. This new Triton cabin is equipped as standard with an in-dash entertainment unit delivering very decent sound and incorporates a Bluetooth system. There is central locking, climate control air-conditioning and a rear bench seat that is surprisingly comfortable for a truck. The rear bench seat also flips up on a 60/40 split to create extra storage space behind the front seats.

This Triton gets power windows and mirrors, remote central locking, alloy wheels, side steps, leather-bound steering wheel with cruise control and similar level of fit and finish (inside and out) to its main rivals, which are now largely manufactured in Thailand.

The Drive

When it comes to on-road ability and comfort, this Triton is still ahead of some others. It steers, corners, grips and goes in a manner more reminiscent of a large car or SUV.

The accommodation for driver and front seat passenger arguably also betters its competitors. Passenger comfort is good at the rear and due to its ride height (like the Ranger and Hilux), the elderly might have some difficulty getting up and into the cabin, but once inside they will have no issue.

On the open road, this Triton belies its size and feels ‘light’ and car-like. The new 6-speed gearbox is smooth and with no hesitation works its way up and down the ratios easily. On winding roads, its abilities (and remember it is almost a two-tonne pickup truck) will have you believing that you can chuck this Triton into corners… and you can within reason. When pushed, the Triton’s diesel is smooth and sounds rather sedate where it is not as noisy as others.

Final word

Mitsubishi will provide a 200,00 km or 5-year warranty which is big peace of mind for buyers in the commercial market and a welcome for city slickers who want a stylish truck. Pricing for this new Triton starts from RM100,200 for the base manual version working class version and works it way up to RM135,200 for this high specification model we are test driving here.

At the end of the test drive only one thought came to mind, is this new Triton the start for a new and exciting SUV from Mitsubishi? If so, we can see how it will replicate the success of the Pajero Sport which is still a handsome and well equipped SUV.