A PLUS FOR TRITON
VALUE
Triton’s volume-selling dual-cab 4WD GLX+ with auto is $42,490 drive-away, an increase of more than $5000 on the model year 2018 version as prices were slashed to make way for the new model. Yet the Triton remains the value ute pick, particularly with Mitsubishi’s sevenyear/150,000km warranty and four years’ roadside assist until June 30. Three-year capped price servicing is a bargain $897; Ford’s Ranger is $1475 and Toyota’s HiLux $1440. Standard are 16-inch alloys, all-terrain tyres, side steps, Easy Select 4WD, daytime running lights, auto headlights and wipers, hill start assist, cruise control, climate control, rear camera and rear sensors. The seven-inch touchscreen has smartphone mirroring, digital radio and there’s a colour display for driver information (but no digital speedo). There’s no smart key, navigation, hill descent control or off-road terrain selection — you need the pricier GLS Tritons for these — and rear diff lock comes only on flagship GLS Premium.
COMFORT
The Triton’s make-over brings tougher exterior styling but the cabin remains solidly utilitarian. Showing its working intent, there are vinyl rather than carpet flooring, endless hard plastic for dash and doors, basic but hard-wearing seat trim and no leather steering wheel. For comfort, there is soft padding for knee rests and centre armrest. Rear bench is spacious but passengers lack air vents and USB ports, not great for family users.
SAFETY
Utes typically don’t feature modern safety gear now common in cars. Mitsubishi’s keen to change that, and the new Triton in GLX+ grade features seven airbags, auto emergency braking (AEB) and lane departure warning. AEB, for example, can’t be found in any Toyota HiLux despite it being the nation’s best-selling vehicle. Tremendous safety kit arrives for an extra $4500 with GLS grade. It adds blind spot warning, lane change assist, rear cross traffic alert, front sensors and mitigation for mis-acceleration. With rear vents and off-road terrain selection, the GLS is the one for family adventurers.
DRIVING
For work and play, the GLX+ has a 951kg payload and can haul 3100kg — not leading on the 4WD ute front but ample for most. The 2.4litre turbo diesel lacks some grunt and isn’t the most refined in segment but the gearbox is smart and cruises nicely at speed. With six-leaf spring rear suspension (less work-orientated GLS models get a five-leaf set-up) and allterrain tyres, it can be unsettled at low speeds around town, especially with an empty tub.
ALTERNATIVES TOYOTA HILUX SR, $46,640 DRIVE-AWAY
The consummate all-round work truck with refined engine and terrific resale value. Strong off-road with rear diff lock, tows 3200kg, rides well with load in the tub but not so well unladen. Infotainment and safety lags behind but new five-year warranty is an improvement.
FORD RANGER XLS, $45,190 D/A (2018 PLATE)
Has burly looks and gutsier five-cylinder — but pricey unless you can nab a good deal in current 2018 plate clearance. Electronic diff lock and 3500kg tow capacity trump the Triton, and Ranger is a better and comfier drive.
HOLDEN COLORADO LT CREW CAB, $43,990 D/A
Challenges the Triton for price and has 17-inch wheels, Apple CarPlay, leather steering wheel, LED DRLs and competent DuraGrip off-road tech. Handles well, engine has more grunt, but safety is lacking. Warranty two years less than Triton, but kilometres are unlimited. Servicing pricier at $1200 for three years.
VERDICT
The Triton combines exceptional value, good equipment, strong safety and rugged styling. Its warranty and cheap servicing make it the choice, unless you can score a great deal on the better-driving and gutsier Ford Ranger.