FearLess Posted April 5, 2019 Posted April 5, 2019 Remember the third-generation L200 bakkie built and sold here as the Colt in the good old days when Mitsubishi was still in cahoots with Mercedes-Benz? Well, the thoroughly titivated new Triton from the Japanese brand, now part of the Nissan-Renault Alliance, is reminiscent of this model – the last L200 model that really sold well in South Africa. Actually; the striking latest incarnation of the fifth generation L200 (the Triton name was introduced to South Africa in 2006 with the launch of fourth generation Mitsubishi bakkie) shows what the Triton should have featured when it was launched here only two short years ago. So, call it version 5.5 of the 40-year old L200 concept if you want but the latest Triton not only now matches up to the competition in terms of quality and technology; it also now really looks the part with a bold and strong face… Gone are rounded surfaces and shape of the last two-and-a-half generations, and back is the angular looks of its first two predecessors – in part due to the new Dynamic Shield design direction already incorporated in the new Eclipse Cross and Outlander ranges. Striking design This striking, more powerful design job forms one leg of a triad of improvements, as Mitsubishi used the makeover opportunity to also introduce enhancements to the automatic transmission and already class-leading 4x4 drivetrain, as well as some small cabin updates. The higher hood line, the higher located and beefier-looking headlights, more pronounced grille treatment and angular front air inlet and larger, squared front bumper gives the new model a powerful and imposing appearance that even Ranger Raptor or Hilux Dakar owners will find intimidating. A host of active safety and driver assistance systems, including seven airbags, Isofix child seat anchors and auto door lock, were carried over, with some enhancements such as a rear-view camera, keyless operating system, high-mounted rear stop lamp and a soft-sprung tailgate. On the road…The extensively revamped newcomer is still powered by the tried and tested 2.4-litre MIVEC DOHC turbodiesel engine introduced with the fifth-generation model range in 2015 (it was the initial unavailability of these engines that led to the local launch of this model Triton being delayed for nearly two years). Delivering an impressive 133kW at 3 500 rpm and 430Nm of torque at 2 500 rpm, I rate this common rail direct injection mill as probably the best in its class – and now being combined with a 6-speed automatic transmission with Intelligent Shift Control (compared to its predecessor’s 5-speed ’box) its good attributes are further emphasised.
Recommended Posts