Pajero Sport refreshed for 2020
Mitsubishi has released details of its new Pajero Sport SUV scheduled to arrive here late in 2019.
Performance, safety upgrades and a new look for the 2019 Mitsubishi Triton have the manufacturer suggesting it expects its sales to increase by 25%.
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.
A major feature of the Ashburton A&P Show, to be held on October 31 and November 1, will be the annual trans-Tasman Sheep Dog Trial test match, with the best heading dogs from both sides of the Tasman going head-to-head in two teams of four.
Fewer bobby calves are heading to the works this season, as more dairy farmers recognise the value of rearing calves for beef.
The key to a dairy system that generates high profit with a low emissions intensity is using low footprint feed, says Fonterra program manager on-farm excellence, Louise Cook.
Rural retailer Farmlands has reported a return to profitability, something the co-operative says shows clear progress in the second year of its five-year strategy.
According to a new report, the Safer Rides initiative, which offered farmers heavily discounted crush protection devices (CPDs) for quad bikes, has made a significant impact in raising awareness and action around farm vehicle safety.
OPINION: In the past weeks, much has been said and written about one of New Zealand's greatest prime ministers, James Brendan Bolger, who died just a few months after his 90th birthday.