MITSUBISHI TRITON GLX-R
We’re talking about the ute sensation of 2019, the Mitsubishi Triton, the ute which is taking the Triple Diamond brand through into the 21st century on a power trip as far as registrations are concerned.
The Triton range is extensive and the ute’s popularity overall is riding on the back of the top-of-the-line VRX 4WD model, but the real hero is in fact, this model: the 2WD version which is – as of April anyway – the most popular ute in class.
This is no small feat, considering the competition the Triton is up against (11 other makes), yet the Triton retains its number one position, narrowly edging out its nearest rival, but quite comfortably eclipsing third and fourth position holders.
There are of course, a number of 2WD Tritons within the range, but we’re picking the GLX-R double cab as the jewel in the 2WD crown.
The ride quality is so good, and the amount of torque coming from the across-the-range 2.4-litre diesel is good enough that – with the right tyres – the full 4WD system is almost surplus to requirements.
Its true, the VRX gives you slightly higher specification levels, but there is very little lacking in the GLX-R and, without the 4WD system on board, the GLX-R is an easier truck to move around congested city streets with narrow carparks.
You do retain the six-speed manual or automatic transmission that is so well matched to the engine, best demonstrated by the posted 8.4 litres per 100km posted fuel figure which is not only achievable, but actually quite beatable.
What will most likely impress however, is the handling. With Mitsubishi’s extensive modifications at the front of the 2019 Triton, particularly in terms of the suspension, which has been extensively reworked, the handling of the current generation is a marked improvement over the previous generation.
Up front, it’s a wish bone with coil spring arrangement, while the rear gains a sports suspension to give just the right balance of strength and suppleness.
The GLX-R is a working truck after all, with a 940kg payload mostly accommodated in the 1520mm long, 1470mm wide and 475mm cargo bed.
In saying this, the GLX-R is equipped with multiple airbags and enough safety systems to ensure a five-star ANCAP safety rating and that includes some of the more sophisticated systems like lane departure warning, forward collision mitigation, cruise control, Smart brake and brake assist and active traction control.
Trailer stability assist is another feature which many will find useful, especially as one of the strengths of the GLX-R Triton is its 750kg or 3000kg (braked) towing ability.
As well, the GLX-R Triton is equipped with the rear vision camera system found on most modern Mitsubishi’s with the display contained in the seven-inch touchscreen with its smartphone link display audio system which is Apple Carplay and Android Auto compatible.
You don’t have to use the touchscreen however, as the Triton is equipped with steering wheel controls and Bluetooth integration and voice command activation.
Easily able to accommodate five adults comfortably, the GLX-R Triton is well set to handle work and play, so its no wonder the 2019 incarnation of one of Mitsubishi’s longest serving nameplates has already proven so popular with the New Zealand consumer.
At $37,990 for the automatic and $35,990 for the even more frugal manual, the Triton represents excellent value for money and it is of course, backed up by Mitsubishi’s Diamond warranty programme.