IN THE new year, Mitsubishi Motors will be introducing its new Triton.
The new Triton SU (Sport Utility Truck – or bakkie as we know them), will create a new benchmark in engine performance with Mitsubishi’s latest-generation 2,4-litre four-cylinder Dohc Mivec 16-valve turbocharged, common-rail diesel engine.
This new engine features a lightweight aluminium cylinder block and is fitted with Mitsubishi’s latest six-speed manual or five-speed automatic gearbox.
This all-new super responsive 2,4-litre engine with a low class-leading, fuel-injected compression ratio is accompanied by a variable geometry turbocharger as well as Mitsubishi’s engine designs.
Its top power outperforms similar-sized engines its competitors use. This combination provides a substantial improvement in low-end torque of over 25% compared to the previous 2,5-litre turbo diesel engine which was fitted to the outgoing Triton range.
Nic Campbell, general manager of Mitsubishi Motors South Africa, said their new lightweight turbo diesel engine is fitted with Mitsubishi’s latest generation Mivec technology and weighs 30kg less than its previous version engine. This means it is improved in responsiveness, fuel consumption, handling, cornering and braking performance.
The new Mivec engine, fitted with the five-speed automatic or six-speed manual gearbox, also comes with the option of a two or four-wheel drive.
Each gearbox has been significantly redesigned from its earlier transmissions. The manual gearbox now features shorter and smoother shifts while the automatic gearbox offers “electronic-manual” shifting.
Buyers who choose the 4x4 drive will get to sample the latest version of Mitsubishi’s widely acclaimed Super Select II 4WD system.
This state-of-the-art system is unique to this manufacturer and offers four intelligent driving modes which can be engaged from the electronic drive-selector found inside the cabin.
This multifunction setup allows drivers to precisely control the bakkie in challenging weather conditions or on loose surfaces with the low-range modes – including a rear diff-lock – which are essential when tackling tough and technical off-road obstacles.
The Triton’s comfort-focused layout of the cabin combines the interior comfort of a passenger car with the functionality of a multi-purpose vehicle.
The J-line design of the Double Cab results in class-leading interior space with plenty of leg and head room while the wider interior angle of the side windows gives additional shoulder space.
The Triton’s “reinforced impact safety evolution” or Rise body construction features high-tensile steel to absorb energy and maintain cabin shape. Active stability with traction control, ABS and electronic brake force distribution give the driver added control in emergency situations.
“The first reports have already found the Triton to be the pick-up that’s most like a car to drive. With its new-generation lightweight diesel engine, upgraded suspension and reduced noise and vibration levels, this new bakkie will impress owners with a comfortable ride that hasn’t reduced its effectiveness as a workhorse ,or its multi-purpose functions,” said Campbell.
The Triton SU should arrive at South African dealerships sometime in February.
