By Sala Masindane

In a bakkie loving nation, a new addition is always welcomed but will always need to offer more to unseat those that are on the throne. This is a never easy assignment but the folks at Mitsubishi have been working hard to achieve this feet. The Triton has been in the market for quite some time but was always lacking a true workhorse for business and family duties. That may be a thing of the past as there might be a new sheriff in town in the form of the entry-level Mitsubishi Triton Double Cab 4×2 GL. It will be going up against the likes of GWM P-Series and the sixth-generation of the Isuzu D-Max to mention a few.

Exterior

The newcomer to the range incorporates the automaker’s “Dynamic Shield” front-end design which adds to the already imposing look and maintains the already existing looks of the Triton. The optional extras which include the sports bar and tonneau cover add to the appeal.

Interior
Inside, the spacious interior adopts cloth seat upholstery, a touchscreen infotainment with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay compatibility and an odometer with a trip computer. Our test unit also featured a decent sounding audio system and a Sony infotainment system with a touch display which could do with physical buttons though. The cloth seats look tough but they offer decent comfort. Other standard features include remote central locking and electric windows.

The cabin is a nice space to be in. It is simple but also feels spacious and durable with hard but tough materials employed.

Performance and drive

The Triton Double Cab GL is powered by Mitsubishi’s 2.4-litre turbodiesel engine producing 100kW and 324Nm. The engine is frugal and sufficient to carry the bakkie. Additionally, the handling and ride quality is commendable with the bakkie maintaining nearly the same comfort in the city and fairly rough gravel terrain. Fuel consumption is at a claimed 8.0l/100km and we managed to average an impressive 7.2l/100km.

Final Word

Overall, the Triton GL enters a competitive segment but it’s compelling pricing and trusted Mitsubishi reliability makes it an option to consider. Pricing starts at R484,990.