Top ute on charge
The Mitsubishi Triton has obviously caught the eye of New Zealand’s ute buyers, as it sits in the top three in the sales league tables for this class of vehicle.
The new 1-tonne ute was recently unveiled at a global launch in Bangkok, Thailand, with first examples due to arrive in New Zealand in late December.
“The Triton is the fastest-growing mainstream 4WD ute in New Zealand and the third highest-selling, with a 12.2%* market share,” said Reece Congdon, MMNZ head of marketing and corporate affairs.
It is said to combine powerful styling with a robust profile, increased ground clearance and an enhanced 4WD system, which together deliver rugged good looks, greater rigidity and improved off-road performance. Machine-finished 18” alloys on GLX-R and VRX models add an extra touch of quality.
The Triton’s Super Select II 4WD system is available in top-of-the-range 4WD models and is now equipped with a new off-road mode including gravel, mud/snow, sand and rock settings. When engaged, off-road mode controls engine power, transmission and braking to regulate the amount of wheel slip and so maximise all-terrain performance.
The addition of hill descent control further assists in challenging situations, maintaining a constant vehicle speed during descents by regulating braking force to each wheel, allowing the driver to concentrate on steering.
A new six-speed automatic transmission is said to enable smoother, more powerful acceleration overall and less engine noise at high speeds.
The current range’s ladder-type frame and high impact-protection cabin structure is retained, backed by Mitsubishi’s latest active safety and driver assistance systems. These are new to the Triton, with forward collision mitigation and lane departure warning also available down the range on GLX and GLX-R models.
Top-of-the-range VRX models benefit from blind spot warning, rear cross traffic alert, multi around view monitor and front and rear parking sensors. VRX and GLX-R models also have larger front brake discs and two pistons in each caliper for improved braking performance and greater safety overall.
When the full range is announced in the coming weeks, Kiwis will be be offered a choice of four 2WD and ten 4WD models, in seven colours, four of them new offerings.
