When it comes to pickup trucks , Hilux is well known for mid size segment. There are options like Ford Ranger, Mazda BT50, Nissan Navara/ Nissan Frontier ,Isuzu D-Max , VW Amarok ,Toyota Tacoma, GMC Canyon, Chevy Colorado, Honda Ridgeline, Ford Maverick, and there are some more obviously their avaibality is depended on market and region. Well, there is one more model, Japanese, and very well known “ The Mitsubishi Triton or also known as L200”. The importance can be seen from the fact that it is in production since 1978 and since then sold over 5.6 Million units globally. The model is available across various global markets especially Oceania , African and ASEAN states.
The first two generations were also available in United States as well but were captive imports , badge engineered under Dodge/ Chrysler brand and sold as Dodge Ram 50 or D-50 . By the way, in early 90’s number of L200 were imported into Pakistan as CBU and there are still few seen on local roads. More recently the 5th generation was in production since 2014. The 5th generation was also sold as Fiat Fullback in certain Europe , Middle Eastern and African countries.
EXTERIOR:
For being in production for almost 10 years , the model needed a makeover and today, Mitsubishi has revealed the all-new 6TH gen Mitsubishi Triton/L200. The new model is brand new ground up with a new platform/ chassis, exterior and interior. The new model is bigger and wider than the previous generation and will be available in Double cabin, Club cabin [two-door single cabin but have some storage space behind front seat] and a typical single cabin version. Triton grown up in size and for reference, the double cab is now 35mm longer, 75mm wider and have a 45mm longer wheelbase than the Hilux double cabin. This makes the new model one of the largest in the segment. Not all technical details as far as underpinning are known but new model is most probably using a modified version of the Nissan ladder frame chassis which is also is currently in use by Nissan Frontier [USDM] and might also be carried over to the next generation of Nissan Navara.
On exterior the new model of Mitsubishi Triton has adopted a rugged boxy and rectangular profile and followed Mitsubishi’s Dynamic Shield design philosophy . There is a larger front more perpendicular and rectangular grill with horizontal slates and bigger split headlights. There are slim L shaped three step LED DRL tucked between the hood and headlights. The front is wider and have a new bumper with avaibality of slim Fog lights . On side profile there are larger rectangular fender flares to reflect the model being rugged and imposing .
New side body panels with bold and wide character line on the lower portion and there are wider side steps and as per Mitsubishi , a better and improved drainage has been implemented. If you have keen eye, you might see a similar looking profile as seen on current Navara and we should not be surprised because Mitsubishi is fully owned by Nissan since 2016. On the rear there are new large T shaped LED taillights. The tailgate also has an integrated spoiler which gives the rear end a sport look. The cargo bed is now having a lower height for easy loading and unloading . The tailgate also uses an improved damper system for easy single-handed operation. Mitsubishi will offer number of accessories for cargo bed, which includes bed-liner , bed cover, Sports-bar are few to mention.
INTERIOR:
On the interior the horizontal and rectangular geometric layout continues, and Mitsubishi calls it Horizontal Axis concept. The interior took inspiration from the Mitsubishi Outlander crossover and have similar infotainment screen and instrument cluster with digital driver information display and have multifunction steering wheel. There is simple well laid out HVAC controls with digital display .
Depending upon version, various convenience features are available which includes leather upholstery. Although the exterior is more rugged , the interior is more of like a typical crossover and have ample storage space with soft touch materials all around the cabin. Mitsubishi promise best in class interior space and comfort for the new model. The new model will also be offered with Mitsubishi Connect, a remote-control feature using smart phone application. This will help engine operation, HVAC and lighting controls. The new model will also comes equipped with ADAS safety features along with front side airbags while Active Stability and traction control is standard.
MECHANICALS:
The new model of Mitsubishi Triton currently is introduced with a single 16 valve 2.4L inline turbo diesel version. This new DOHC 4N16 engine has improved over previous 4N15 and with improved intercooler, turbocharger, fuel injector. This results in better performance and fuel economy. The same engine will be offered in three power bands depending on version. The base power comes at 148HP and 330NM of torque.
The second option is a version with 181HP & 430NM of torque and then the most powerful variant is available with 201HP & 470NM of torque. Buyers can opt for either a manual or 6 speed automatic . The automatic is now with more modern shift by wire system. The most powerful engine is only available with automatic. Both 2 wheel drive and 4 wheel drive options are there.
Mitsubishi deployed driver-selectable Super Select 4WD-II, and it comes with 4 modes like 2H, which is rear-wheel drive, 4H for full-time all Wheel drive, 4HLC for locked central differential while there is a 4HLLc which can be used for locked central differential with lower gear. There are a total of 7 driving modes for various driving conditions. An Active Yaw Control is also available on the new model for improved driving dynamics around corners which automatically applies slight braking to the inner front wheels around corners. For improved traction, the new model is also equipped with a limited-slip differential.
As of other mechanical, Mitsubishi has upgraded the suspension system but still keeps the double wishbone on front axle while the rear still carry over the leaf springs with better shock absorbers. The hydraulic steering is replaced with electric on the new generation, but the rear brakes are still drum . The new model also use lighter but high tensile steel for the body panels as well as the chassis, which is now having 40% more bending and 60% more torsional rigidity. Overall, we can expect improved performance and better handling Mitsubishi Triton/L200 both on and off road.
The new model production will start soon and will be available first in Thailand market and later in other ASEAN countries. The new model will also be available in Japan where sales discontinued almost 12 years ago. The base single cabin model starts in Thailand at $20.4K while fully loaded top of the line touch approx. $30K , if we use current exchange rate between Thailand and USD.
