MITSUBISHI TRITON 4X4 DC AT

MAKING A STATEMENT

With buyers looking to squeeze maximum value from their beleaguered rand, the bakkie’s original primary function as a dedicated workhorse is being overshadowed by a new multipurpose role that also encompasses personal transport. Reliability and ruggedness are taking a back seat as sophistication and safety come under the spotlight.

Against this background, the new fifth-generation Triton arrives on these shores with something of a reputation-building role ahead of it. Not to address shortcomings in its predecessors, but really because for a while on the local front there was not a lot to get excited about, Mitsubishi- wise. Now the Triton, that’s something to get excited about. It certainly makes a striking visual statement. The swoopy lines accentuate the vehicle’s bulk, rather than disguising it.

On the inside, it’s big, too. With the front seat rammed all the way back, there was room for a 1,9-metre front passenger and adequate space behind. From where our rear passenger commented very favourably on seat comfort, particularly the backrest, which is angled more than any other in its category. (The new cushioning uses higher-density foam.)

Ride, handling and comfort were the primary targets for designers of the new-generation model. The combination of lower steering ratio (3,8 turns lock to lock), tighter cornering radius (5,9 metres), stiffer front springs and lighter (by 30 kg) engine add up to crisper, more nimble handling, according to Mitsubishi. In practice, on the road, even unladen, the Triton rides superbly. Its suspension feels supple without being soft and although there is the expected noticeable body roll in cornering, it’s well controlled. It rides bumps without significant body shudder.

Off-road, the Triton is as nimble as you like. The automatic drivetrain makes 4x4 driving, even in arduous conditions, a fuss-free undertaking. Standard Super- Select II four- wheel drive, seen first in the latest Pajero, offers four driving modes. Power is split front-to-rear 40:60, chosen to optimise gravelroad handling. The new 2,4 litre turbodiesel engine is typically gruff at start-up and quietens down once warm, though subjectively it is still more intrusive than I’d have liked. The five-speed gearbox feels well matched to the engine’s torque profile. Shifts are smooth, whether accelerating hard or in full auto or clicking the lever sideways to select sequential shifting.

Comfort and convenience features on the new model include a touchscreen infotainment system with Bluetooth connectivity and USB audio input, keyless push-button Stop/start, dual-zone auto air- conditioning, a reverse camera, an electrically adjustable driver’s seat, tilt and telescopic steering wheel adjustment and leather upholstery. Less obvious smart features I liked: the rear window demister and the tailgate, which can be opened onehanded thanks to a central latch handle. The tailgate incorporates a central brake light; not as high as cab-mounted versions, but it won’t be obscured by a cab.

Oh, and safety? A five-star safety rating in the Australian NCAP safety performance test. Standard-fit systems include proprietary ASTC (Active Stability and Traction Control), which modulates both braking and engine power, ABS and EBD as well as Hill Start Assist (HSA).

To sum up, if you’re shopping for a multipurpose sport utility that’s capable on- or off-road, comfortable and convenient, the Triton should be high on your shopping list.