As is the case with most segments in the market, the bakkie one is alive with constant change and updates. During the past year, we have seen the launch of the new Isuzu KB while Volkswagen has rolled out its updated 2,0 TDI engines throughout the Amarok range.
Mitsubishi has now released its answer to these competitors.
What’s new?
The most significant change can be found under the short bonnet. Instead of the previous 3,2-litre turbodiesel (120 kW/343 N.m), a new 2,5-litre turbodiesel engine powers all four wheels. Power and torque figures have increased to 131 kW and 400 N.m respectively. These increases are partly thank to a new variable-geometry turbocharger
The biggest cosmetic change is new wheels, but most potential buyers will be happy to know that finally cruise control is standard and so is Bluetooth and climate control. The former easily pairs with a smartphone and also plays music stored thereon. You can also play tunes via the USB connection cable in the glove box.
On the road
We have a lot of experience of the current 3,2-litre Di-D double cab as it forms part of our current long-term fleet (you can read the first update here; the second one here).
Jumping behind the revised bakkie’s steering wheel and heading north to Limpopo, I immediately noticed how much better isolated the cabin is.
This stretch also showed the 2,5-litre’s best side. The 700 cm3 reduction compared to the outgoing engine is not notable, which is understandable since the increase in power and torque means the engine pulls stronger at town speeds as well as highway speeds.
Off-road
Both on- and off-road, the Triton has impressed us in the past. The change to the more powerful 2,5-litre has only bettered these characteristics. Now you have loads of additional shove to get out of tricky situations, as I discovered on the rocky off-road course we did. One other highlight that stood out was the ride quality. The Triton is known for its softer and subtler ride compared to some of its competitors, and fortunately that is still the case.
Summary
The new engine puts the Triton in a more favourable place in the market than the previous model. Unfortunately, it doesn’t (as is the case with the Isuzu KB) doesn’t offer an electronic stability system, but for some buyers the new features will definitely be welcome additions, while other won’t view them as sufficient enough to hide the Triton’s wrinkles. However, it remains a solid, reliable product and one that any double cab buyer should consider.
Specifications:*
Model: Mitsubishi Triton 2,5 Di-D DC MT 4×4
Engine: 2,5-litre, four-cylinder turbodiesel
Power: 131 kW at 4 000 r/min
Torque: 400 N.m. from 2 000 r/min
Fuel consumption: 7,9 L/100 km
CO2: 210 g/km
Towing capacity (unbraked/braked) kg: 750/1 500
Price: R419 900
Service plan: 5 years/90 000 km
Service intervals: every 10 000 km
*According to the manufacturer
