Value package

DON’T JUDGE A UTE BY ITS COVER. THE MITSUBISHI TRITON DELIVERS MORE THAN IT PROMISES.

Engine: 2.4-litre 4-cyl diesel Power/torque: 133kw/430nm Gearbox: 5-speed auto 4x4 system: dual-range full-time (+2WD) Weight: 1950kg GVM: 2900kg Towing: 3100kg Fuel capacity: 75L ADR fuel claim: 7.6L/100km

MITSUBISHI’S Triton ute is holding steady at number three on the 4x4 sales charts. So steady, in fact, 2017 sales almost mirror 2016, the first full year of sales for this latest, fifthgeneration Triton.

However, if things stay this way, the Triton is in danger of being knocked out of the third place it has held for a few years now by the quickly rising Colorado.

Sales of this latest Triton are also well behind those of the last-generation Triton when it was in run-out mode back in 2015, but with the Pajero Sport joining Triton in the top-ten best sellers, it’s unlikely Mitsubishi, or its dealers, are complaining too much.

The Triton stands out among the current crop of 4x4 utes in a number of ways. One reason is the full-time 4x4 of GLS and Exceed models, thanks to Mitsubishi’s ‘Super Select’ system. Full-time 4x4 adds greatly to the Triton’s functionality, driveability and safety under most driving conditions, and it stands the Triton apart from all of its competitors bar the Amarok. Super Select also has a 2WD mode, so it’s different again from a conventional fulltime system.

Unfortunately, Super Select doesn’t make the Triton a gun off-road ute, but that’s all to do with its modest suspension travel and ground clearance and nothing to do with the Super Select system.

The Triton is also a small ute by class standards in cabin size, payloads and towing capacity. The fact that most of the tray of the dual-cab models overhangs the rear axle is also a negative when it comes to carrying or towing heavy loads; although, the 2.4litre diesel holds up its end even if the chassis layout isn’t ideal.

One positive here is that the Triton is more manoeuvrable than the others in its class, thanks to its relatively short wheelbase. It also has sporty feel to the way it steers and handles, thanks in part to being lighter than most competitors.