Triton targets work and play markets

Mitsubishi has released its latest Triton light commercial. The new vehicle was unveiled to the Australian media last week and promises to deliver arguably the best work/play compromise in the all-wheel drive ute market today.

A full one-tonner in all 4x4 configurations, Mitsubishi claims the new Triton has been developed with passenger car levels of comfort, noise and ride in mind. In our sampling of an (admittedly) limited part of the new Triton range we’re picking it’s largely “mission accomplished” for the team from Tonsley Park (SA).

Built in Thailand and developed in conjunction with Mitsubishi’s local engineering team, the new Triton is longer, wider, higher and built on a longer wheelbase than its predecessor. Interior space is substantially increased and now class leading according to Mitsubishi. The whole plot riders on a 50 per cent stiffer ladder frame chassis.

The new ute’s standout styling works better in the metal than pictures to date have indicated and features Mitsubishi’s corporate front-end and more than a hint of the Dakar-winning Pajero Evolution.

The new ML Triton replaces the outgoing model with a simplified and value-added range. As is the case with many new cars, but rarely the reality with light commercials, the new Triton features good standard equipment levels. Driver and passenger airbags, aircon, power steering, remote central locking, a decent stereo and power windows are standard from the base GLX model up.

Importantly, antilock brakes are now standard on the higher GLX-R and GLS grades and optional on the GLX.

The GLX-R in particular gets a significant ramp up in equipment levels with the new range. Items such as front nudge bar, side steps, tray-mounted sports bar, lockable hard tonneau, flares, foglights, 16-inch alloy wheels, privacy glass and bluetooth phone prep are all standard.

Both single and double cab versions are offered from launch, the former available only in GLX trim. The execution of the rear seating in the double cab version is a high point for the new Triton. Unlike some of its competitors, the seating is spacious and comfortable for adults and kids alike.

Two engine variants are offered – a revised 3.2-litre V6 petrol and a new 3.2-litre CDi direct-injected turbodiesel. It’s the latter engine that’s the pick of the litter -- the petrol engine though refined struggles to match the CDi’s torquey delivery.

Transmission choice is limited to five-speed manual in all-but one model -- the four-speed auto-equipped V6 petrol GLX-R double cab. Alas there’s no turbodiesel/auto transmission combination on offer -- even in the oiler-only $50K range-topping double cab GLS.

No four-cylinder petrol two-wheel drive entry-level workhorse is on offer yet either.

At this stage pricing for four-wheel drive Tritons only has been announced (see below). Two-wheel drive models do not arrive until later in 2006 (V6 or CDi only at this stage). October is Mitsubishi’s target date for dealer stocks of the two-wheelers which will be high-ride models a la Toyota HiLux.

CarPoint’s launch review of the new generation Triton range will be published later this week. To read CarPoint's giant 2005-model crewcab comparo click here.

Mitsubishi ML Triton models and pricing

GLX
3.5 V6 petrol single cab manual only $30,690
3.2 CDI turbodiesel single cab manual only $33,690
3.5 V6 petrol double cab manual only $36,690
3.2 CDI turbodiesel double cab manual only $39,690

Std equipment includes: driver and passenger airbags, Hybrid LSD, aircon, power steering, 16-inch wheels, power windows, remote central locking.

GLX-R
3.5 V6 petrol double cab manual $41,490
3.5 V6 petrol double cab auto $43,990
3.2 CDI turbodiesel double cab manual only $44,990

Std equipment includes: as above plus nudge bar, side steps, sports bar, hard tonneau, flares, foglights, 16-inch alloy wheels, privacy glass, bluetooth phone prep, rear (tray access) power window, ABS brakes.

Std equipment includes: as above plus climate control aircon, eight-way power drivers seat, leather upholstery, five-year premium roadside assist.