Following its launch in July, Mitsubishi has extended their Triton line-up that now ranges from a 2,4 litre 4-cylinder MPI (multi point fuel injectors petrol engine), to a 3,5 V6 fuel-injected petrol engine and a 3,2 DI-D manual and auto diesel engines.With the Triton Double Cab, Mitsubishi aims to tread the fine line between modern styling and traditional off-road prowess in a package that remains faithful to its popular Colt model. The styling has echoes of the Colt about the grille, but dispenses with the angular lines in favour of more curved architecture that manages to look fairly refined while accentuating those pronounced wheel arches. Sufficient customer demand now means that a standard fitted tow bar is included on the Triton 2,5 DI-D and the 3,2 DI-D double-cab models.

The Triton’s dash layout is clean and easy to navigate, with a centrally located display that features compass headings, trip information and altitude meter. The use of two-tone materials lifts the ambience of the interior and emphasises the generous space on offer. The rear seats are big enough to accommodate adults and the inclusion of a number of convenient stowage areas ensure that the debris associated with a family or crew is kept in check. Standard features include electric windows, automatic air conditioning, an MP3 compatible CD player, keyless entry, central locking and engine immobiliser.

There are four powerplant options for the Triton, the entry-level unit being the company’s 2,4 litre MPI (Multi Point Injection) engine. This engine delivers an output of 94 kW and 194 Nm of torque. It is mated with the company’s proven 5-speed manual transmission that Mitsubishi claims is perfect for those who seek a double-cab, but not a 4x4. Next up, is the turbocharged 2,5 litre diesel engine with common rail direct injection that serves up 100 kW at 3 500 r/min, 314 N.m of torque at 2 000 r/min and claimed to consume 8,6 l/100 km. The new petrol alternative is a 3,5 litre V6 SOHC with Multi-point injection (MPI) that has 295 N.m at 3 500 r/min and 131 kW of power at 4 750 revs. The new Triton 3,5 V6 is a lower rev engine than the previous 3,5 Pajero engine. The 3,2 litre DI-D intercooled Turbo becomes the biggest diesel ever in a Mitsubishi LCV. It delivers 118 kW of power at 3 800 r/min, and 343 N.m of torque at 3 000 r/min.

The Triton improves upon the torsional rigidity of the Colt by 50 per cent while longitudinal rigidity has been increased by 70 per cent, Mitsubishi claims. Safety features include Mitsubishi’s RISE (Reinforced Impact Safety Evolution) body construction that controls how the body reacts to impacts, dual front airbags, front and rear crumple zones, side impact bars, front seatbelt pre-tensioners, three-point rear seatbelts and ABS with EBD.

In the pursuit of more civilised on-road manners, the Triton dispenses with the traditional torsion bar front suspension, opting instead for a set up that comprises of independent double wishbones up front and rear coiled springs. The steering also receives an update - the Colt’s recirculating ball steering system has been replaced by a power assisted rack and pinion configuration in an attempt to improve the Triton’s on-road handling. The turning radius stands at 5,9 m for the 4WD and 5,7 m for the 2WD model.

However, these concessions to comfort do not detract from the company’s reputation for producing go-anywhere cars. The Easy Select 4WD, which lets you change modes whilst driving without losing go-forward, offers two on-road and two off-road modes. There is also a locking rear differential that can transfer torque to the wheel with the most grip or lock the rear wheels depending on the mode selected. Combined with ground clearance of 205 mm as well as approach and departure angles of 33 degrees and 28 degrees, respectively, the Triton has the stance to tackle rough terrain.

Prices:

Mitsubishi Triton 2,4 MPI Manual 4x2 R215 900

Mitsubishi Triton 2,5 DI-D Manual 4x4 R297 900

Mitsubishi Triton 3,5 V6 Manual 4x4 R304 900

Mitsubishi Triton 3,2 DI-D Manual 4x4 R319 900

Mitsubishi Triton 3,2 DI-D Auto 4x4 R327 900

These prices include a 3-year/60 000 km service plan and a 2-year/100 000 km warranty offered on the Mitsubishi double-cabs as standard. Service intervals are every 10 000 km for the diesels and 15 000 km for the petrol models.

Original article from Car