The Mitsubishi Triton GLS Premium sits at the top of the model range and competes directly with the Isuzu D Max LS-T, Nissan Navara ST-X and SsangYong Musso Ultimate.
Mitsubishi updated their Triton in late 2108 with a revised look and overall improvements. In the never ending game of leap frog, the last 2015 model was starting to show its age a little.
Exterior
With a completely revised front end, Triton has gone tough. The front bonnet and grill has undergone a complete transformation from a soft sleek appearance to a tall bonnet and bold grill. Somewhat similar to the new Hilux, it is angular and takes some getting used to. The new Triton runs self-levelling LED headlights, DRLs and tail lights with Halogen fog lamps.
The sides and rear have also undergone a more subtle redesign that makes the overall appearance more appealing. The tub has 6 tie down pints as well as a liner and sports bar. It also has roof gutters, side steps, electronic folding exterior mirrors and a handy rear step. The GLS Premium runs on 18 x 7.5J Alloy rims with 265/60R18 110H tyres.
Interior
Triton has subtle improvements such as padded arm rests, double detail stitching on the seats and gear lever, console bin etc. as well as a monotone softer colour scheme.
Front seats are comfortable, if a little snug for larger framed occupants. While the driver’s seat is electrically adjustable, there is no additional lumbar adjustment. Steering wheel is both height and reach adjustable and frames the instrument binnacle perfectly.
A refreshed instrument binnacle sees twin large dials with a MFD between. Clean and clear, the MFD displays a small range of information. One thing I didn’t like was that it didn’t display the exact speed on cruise control, which I like as I drive so much on it.
Centre console bin is adequate, with twin cup holders in front. In front of the transmission lever is a small storage tray, but twin USB and a HDMI input as well as 12V. Next to them are buttons for the heated front seats, and above rear diff lock, BSM and the AC functions. This is topped off by the 7 inch touch screen Smartphone link Display Audio (SDA)
Rear seats, with their slight recline due to the curved body ‘J’ design and sculptured base are more comfortable than many competitors. There is good head room, but the shoulder support of the seats is a little low for taller passengers. The redesigned rear air vents that now come from the roof are a novel idea.
Features
Triton GLS Premium, as you would expect has most of the goodies, some already mentioned. In addition there is Digital Audio Broadcast (DAB), a six speaker audio system, Android Auto and Apple Car Play, Bluetooth connectivity, electro chromatic rear view mirror, reversing camera, Multi around Monitor (MAM), front and rear parking sensors, dual zone air-conditioning, one touch start with smart key, dusk sensing headlights, automatic high beam and rain-sensing automatic intermittent wipers,
One thing I really dislike is Mitsubishi’s insistence on using your smart phones navigation system. This is all well and good where there is reception, but these cars are designed to go far from civilisation, where there is no reception, therefore no navigation system.
Drive and Engine
The Triton GLS Premium retains the 2.4-litre MIVEC turbo diesel engine. It achieves 133kW/430Nm. The GLS Premium delivers this power and torque to the wheels through a new 6-speed A/T which uses a taller 6th gear and ratio optimisation to lower engine speed at higher vehicle speeds for improved quietness Fuel economy ADR combined figure is 8.6L/100k.
Another key feature is the throttle response, it’s excellent! The triton has always been a great performer off road, being robust, honest and reliable. We have had the opportunity in the past to test the Triton at length over all manner of conditions. The new Triton loses none of the ability.
With an improved Super Select 4WD-II, and the addition of the new Off-Road Mode raises the 4WD suitability even further. Triton boasts impressive all-terrain performance for a 4WD Ute.
On road the Triton retains the revised suspension set up from the last update and provides a good balance between load carrying and passenger comfort. You know you are driving a Ute, but it’s better than a lot of others.
Safety
Safety is a feature with the Triton achieving an official 5-star ANCAP safety rating.
The new Triton comes with an upgraded active safety system specification that includes:
- Forward Collision Mitigation (FCM):
- Blind Spot Warning (with Lane Change Assist):.
- Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA):
- Ultrasonic msacceleration Mitigation System (UMS):
The new Triton GLS Premium is fitted with a Multi-Around Monitor and Parking Sensors that assist the driver in tight manoeuvres or when parking.
Passive safety features including driver and front passenger SRS airbags, side and curtain airbags and driver’s knee airbag, while seat belts are fitted with pre-tensioners and force limiters.
Active safety features – ASC – Active Stability Control (ASC), Traction Control System (TCS), Trailer Stability Assist (TSA), integrated within ASC and TCS – Hill Start Assist (HSA), Emergency Stop Signal function (ESS), Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD), Emergency Brake Assist System (EBA), ISO-Fix child seat mountings and brake override system to prevent accidental acceleration.
Good Bits:
- 4WD ability
- Internal Comfort
- Robustness
Not so Good Bits:
- Slightly low towing capacity
- Smart phone navigation only
- Prefer the 8 speed AT from Pajero Sport
Summary
The revised Triton continues the tradition of a robust, reliable 4WD Ute. The new design is definitely different to the previous model and many people that have seen it like it. It makes a bold statement.
With improved interior ambiance Triton also moves slightly upmarket. It strong point has always been excellent value for money, will that continue.
It remains a strong contender in the recreational 4WD Ute segment for buyers.
Also Look At
Facts and Figures: 2019 Mitsubishi Triton GLS Premium 4WD Dual Cab
- Engine: 4L DT-D 4Cyl producing 133kW/430Nm
- Transmission: Six speed AT4WD Super Select 11
- Warranty: 7 years/ 150,000km
- Safety: Five stars ANCAP
- Origin: Thailand
- Price: from $51,990 MLP*
*MLP – Manufacturers List Price includes GST and LCT but excluding statutory charges, dealer costs and dealer delivery. See your dealer for RDAP. Does not include price of any options.