2025 Mitsubishi Triton has arrived

By Andrew Muzamhindo | 6h ago

In the festive spirit of giving, Zimoco has gifted the motoring public with the all-new Mitsubishi Triton.

What a handsome hunk! It could actually be a worthy Christmas gift for your loved one. I am not surprised that inquiries and purchases have begun, given its irresistible appearance.

The all-new Mitsubishi Triton, also known as the Mitsubishi L200 in certain markets, has made its mark as a versatile and robust mid-sized pickup truck. With its reputation for durability, off-road capability, and practicality, the Triton has remained a favourite among truck enthusiasts and professionals alike. The latest model introduces significant upgrades in design, technology, and performance, making it a competitive option in the increasingly crowded pickup truck market. This review explores the Triton’s key features, performance, and overall value, assessing whether it lives up to its expectations.

Exterior design and build quality

The all-new Triton boasts a bold and aggressive new design, signaling a departure from its predecessor’s more conservative styling. The front fascia is dominated by Mitsubishi’s "Dynamic Shield" grille, which adds a modern and robust look to the truck. Sleek LED headlights and a more angular body give the Triton a sharp and commanding road presence. Mitsubishi has also reworked the truck's aerodynamics, improving fuel efficiency without compromising its rugged appearance.

Its dimensions are slightly larger than the outgoing model, providing enhanced cabin space and utility.

The reinforced ladder-frame chassis adds durability, making it suitable for both urban commuting and heavy-duty tasks. Overall, the build quality feels solid, with high-strength materials used throughout the structure to increase toughness and longevity.

Interior and comfort

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Inside, the all new Triton offers a significant leap forward compared to its predecessor. The cabin is more refined, with improved materials, ergonomic seating, and a user-friendly layout. Mitsubishi has incorporated soft-touch surfaces in higher trims, along with leather upholstery and contrast stitching, giving the interior a more premium feel.

The infotainment system is centered around a large touchscreen display (ranging from 7 to 9 inches, depending on the trim), featuring Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Bluetooth connectivity. The system is functional and intuitive.

Passenger comfort is a highlight, with ample legroom and headroom for both front and rear-seat occupants. Mitsubishi has also improved the truck's suspension system, resulting in a smoother ride, even on rough terrain. However, on extended drives, the rear bench seat may feel slightly upright for taller passengers.

Performance and handling

The all new Triton is powered by a newly developed 2.4-liter turbocharged diesel engine, delivering 135kW@3500rpm of power and 430Nm@2250-2500rpm of torque. This upgrade provides a notable increase in power and torque compared to the previous model, making the Triton more capable of towing and hauling heavy loads. The engine is paired with either a 6-speed manual or a 6-speed automatic transmission, both of which offer smooth and responsive shifts.

Off-road enthusiasts will appreciate Mitsubishi’s Super Select 4WD-II system, which allows the driver to switch seamlessly between 2WD and 4WD modes.

The Triton also features a locking rear differential and multiple terrain modes (mud, sand, gravel, etc.), enhancing its off-road prowess. Ground clearance has been increased to 235mm, and the truck can wade through water depths of up to 800mm, making it a true contender for adventurous expeditions. Product Manager for the Mitsubishi brand at Zimoco, Mr Lawrence Simemeza said: “On the road, the Triton handles surprisingly well for a pickup truck. It drives and feels like an SUV. The steering is precise, and the suspension effectively absorbs bumps and potholes.”

However, the ride may feel slightly firm when the bed is empty, a common trait in trucks of this class.

Safety features

Mitsubishi has placed a strong emphasis on safety in the all-new Triton, equipping it with a suite of advanced driver-assistance systems. Key features include:

Forward Collision Mitigation (FCM) with pedestrian detection

Lane Departure Warning (LDW)

Blind Spot Warning (BSW) with Lane Change Assist

Rear Cross-Traffic Alert (RCTA)

Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC)

Additionally, the Triton’s reinforced body structure and multiple airbags enhance occupant protection in the event of a collision. These features position the Triton as one of the safer options in the midsize pickup segment.

Utility and practicality

As a workhorse, the all new Triton excels in utility. The truck bed has been designed to accommodate a wide range of cargo, with a payload capacity of up to 1,100 kg, depending on the configuration.Tie-down hooks and a durable bed liner enhance practicality, making it ideal for transporting tools, equipment, or recreational gear.

For towing, the Triton offers a maximum towing capacity of 3,500 kg, putting it on par with competitors like the Ford Ranger and Toyota Hilux. Whether used for work or leisure, the Triton’s versatility makes it a reliable companion.

Fuel efficiency and pricing

The Triton’s new diesel engine is not only more powerful but also more fuel-efficient. Mitsubishi claims an average fuel consumption of 8.5 litres per 100 kilometers, which is competitive in its class. Real-world figures may vary, especially during heavy towing or off-road driving.

Pricing for the all new Triton starts at approximately US$54 200 for the base model and climbs to US$62 200 for the fully loaded variants.

Pricing is competitive compared with the Ford Ranger and Toyota Hilux and are instances where the Mitsubishi offers more advanced technology and premium features than competition.

My decision

The all-new Mitsubishi Triton is a well-rounded and capable mid-size pickup truck that caters for both professional and recreational needs. Its bold design, improved performance, and off-road capabilities make it a strong contender in its segment. While the interior technology and ride comfort may fall slightly short of class leaders like the Ford Ranger, the Triton excels in durability, reliability, and safety.

Ultimately, the Triton is a vehicle that prioritises function over flash, making it an excellent choice for those seeking a dependable and no-nonsense pickup. With its combination of ruggedness and refinement, the all-new Mitsubishi Triton continues to uphold its reputation as a versatile and trustworthy truck.

Specifications

Engine: 2.4-litre four-cylinder twin-turbo diesel

Power: 150kW @ 3500rpm

Torque: 470Nm @ 1500–2750rpm

Drive type: Four-wheel drive

Transmission: 6-speed torque converter automatic

Power-to-weight ratio: 70.6kW/t

Weight (kerb): 2125kg

Spare tyre type: Full-size

Payload: 1075kg

Tow rating: 3500kg braked

Tank Size: 75 litres