The bakkie war has intensified with the local launch of Mitsubishi’s next-generation Triton, an evolution in the iconic bakkie’s 46-year legacy.
The Triton has long been a favourite among South African drivers, a reputation built on the brand’s heritage and the success of the iconic Colt.
What is it?
Now in its sixth generation, the Next-Gen Triton has been completely redesigned from the ground up. All elements, including the interior and exterior design as well as the chassis, ladder frame and engine, have been completely reimagined.
Exterior:
The frontal design incorporates the Dynamic Shield, which is now accentuated by a three-dimensional front grille, fenders and a bumper. The daytime running lights feature three L-shaped LED lights which, in combination with the three-dimensional three-light headlights below them, give the Next-Gen Triton a commanding presence.
The horizontally themed body sides are composed of large, solid surfaces, which emphasise the doors, while contrasting with the sharply overhanging fender panels. The cabin shape and rear spoiler have been designed with aerodynamic efficiency in mind.
At the rear, T-shaped taillights on both sides emphasise width while also enforcing the sturdy design.
Interior:
The interior features a robust, horizontally themed instrument panel that allows drivers to easily see changes in the position of the vehicle while driving.
An eight-inch infotainment system is positioned at eye level for ease of use and features smartphone connectivity via Apple CarPlay or Android Auto and an easy-to-read display. Ahead of the driver is a seven-inch multi-information display that offers all the necessary information at a glance and allows drivers to easily understand the vehicle’s status.
The Next-Gen Triton is approximately 50mm wider than the previous Triton, which translates into better shoulder room. The front-seat adjustment range in all models is also segment leading.
The front seats have been designed to provide firm lower back support while the shoulder areas provide ease of movement with an open shape, which helps to reduce driver fatigue. The hip point has also been moved up by 20mm with a more upright posture adopted to improve visibility. Ingress and egress have been improved thanks to a more vertical A-pillar which also widens the door openings.
Engine:
A newly developed 4N16 DI-DC engine delivers 135kW and 430Nm between 2 250 and 2 500 r/min.
This engine is paired to either a six-speed automatic transmission or a six-speed manual transmission.
GL models are fitted with a 2.4-litre DI-DC engine that offers 81kW and 200Nm between 1 000 and 3 750 r/min and which is paired to a five-speed manual transmission.
Price:
* Single-cab models:
2.4 GL 4x2 Manual (R479 990) and 2.4 GL 4x2 Manual (R559 990).
* Double-cab models:
2.4 GL 4x4 Manual (R639 990), 2.4 GLS 4x2 Auto (R679 990), 2.4 GLS 4x4 Manual (R739 990), 2.4 GLS 4x4 Auto (R759 990), 2.4 Xtreme 4x2 Auto (R769 990), 2.4 Athlete 4x2 Auto (R779 990), 2.4 Xtreme 4x4 Auto (R849 990), 2.4 Athlete 4x4 Auto (R859 990) and the Triton Next-Gen 2.4 Edition 46 4x4 Auto (R889 990).
According to several news outlets, including Reuters, American manufacturers are once again warning that forthcoming European Union (EU) safety rules could sharply limit the number of full-size US bakkies entering the European market.
BYD and Tesla, two giants of the electric vehicle industry, are navigating diverging challenges. BYD faces mounting competition in China and questions over its pricing strategy, while Tesla grapples with fading incentives and unsold inventory in the United States.
Nissan South Africa has agreed to sell its Rosslyn production facility after 60 years of operation. The plant, which produced models such as the 1400 ‘Champ’ bakkie, NP200 and Navara, was acquired by Chery SA. The Chinese automaker has sold over 80,000 vehicles locally since 2021 and is now strengthening its African presence.
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