After a notably extensive teaser campaign, Mitsubishi has unveiled the latest Triton, known as the L200, in certain markets. This updated midsize pickup, now in its sixth generation, showcases a fresh interior and exterior design, as well as significant changes in its newly developed ladder frame. The vehicle will be offered in double cab, club cab, and single cab body styles, benefiting from a remarkable 60 per cent increase in torsional rigidity.
Adopting a new high-tensile steel material reduces the body’s weight compared to its previous generation, making it lighter and more agile. Additionally, the redesigned carbo bed has been lowered by 45 millimetres (1.77 inches) to 820 mm (32.2 in), facilitating easier cargo handling. Enhanced practicality is achieved through a reinforced frame and a newly added step in the bumper corner. Mitsubishi discreetly mentions that the utilitarian vehicle is now larger, but lighter steel has minimised weight gain.
The new Triton, aiming to rival the Ford Ranger, offers two four-wheel-drive systems: the Super Select 4WD-II and Easy Select 4WD. The former incorporates a centre limited-slip differential, distributing 40 per cent of the power to the front and the remaining 60 per cent to the rear. The advanced four-wheel-drive system boasts selectable modes, such as 2H (RWD), 4H (4×4), 4HLc (4×4 with a locked centre differential), and 4LLc (low-range with a locked centre differential). Furthermore, it has seven driving modes: Normal, Eco, Gravel, Snow, Mud, Sand, and Rock.
The suspension has undergone a complete revamp to enhance performance and maneuverability, featuring a new double-wishbone front and a lighter leaf spring setup at the rear. Models equipped with the Super Select 4WD-II system benefit from Active Yaw Control (AYC), which improves cornering through gentle brake application on the inside front wheel. Hill descent and hill start assist systems are also included for off-road adventures.
Regarding the engine, Mitsubishi has only mentioned a new diesel mill, available in three different tunes: 148 horsepower (110 kilowatts) and 330 Newton-metres (243 pound-feet), 181 hp (135 kW) and 430 Nm (316 lb-ft), and the most potent configuration with 201 hp (150 kW) and 470 Nm (346 lb-ft). Depending on the chosen configuration, the engine is paired with a six-speed automatic transmission or a shift-by-wire manual.
The 2024 Triton, showcased here in the striking Yamabuki Orange Metallic paint job, can also be ordered in various other colours. High-end versions come with a body-coloured front grille and dark titanium finish for specific body parts. Some images depict a rally-spec model designed for the Asia Cross Country Rally.
Inside the cabin, the Triton has undergone significant updates, though it retains analogue dials, which actually complement its utilitarian nature. Climate settings have separate controls, and two rotary knobs flank the touchscreen. The dashboard boasts a straightforward and functional layout, ideal for a workhorse. Shifting between 2WD and 4WD is easily done using the selector positioned between the seats, where you’ll also find a button for the driving modes.
The new L200 / Triton is already available in Thailand, and its introduction will gradually expand to ASEAN and Oceania before reaching the Japanese market in early 2024, marking its return after 12 years.
Source and Images: Motor1