New Triton to join SA bakkie war

Published Nov 4, 2015

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By: IOL Motoring Staff

Johannesburg - It's about to rain bakkies in South Africa.

Not only is Toyota set to launch its first all-new Hilux in more than a decade at the beginning of next year, to fight for sales domination with the recently-facelifted Ford Ranger , but Nissan’s new Navara can’t be far off and Mitsubishi has just confirmed that it'll introduce its all-new Triton around the middle of 2016.

While the current Triton is not exactly a heavy-hitter on the sales charts, the new versions looks promising enough to improve Mitsubishi's market share in this cut-throat segment.

Originally revealed in late 2014, the new bakkie promises a softer and quieter “SUV-type” ride and cabin comfort “reminiscent of a passenger car”, while being as dependable and work-practical as ever. It's also more conventional-looking than its predecessor, which should work in its favour in this market.

NEW DIESEL ENGINE

Power comes from a new 2.4-litre aluminium-block turbodiesel engine, rated at 130kW and 430Nm and mated to either a six-speed manual or five-speed automatic gearbox. Range-topping double cab models will offer Mitsubishi's Super Select II four-wheel drive system as found in the Pajero.

Top models will be rather luxurious too, packing a colour touch-screen navigation system with reverse camera, dual zone climate control, electrically-adjustable driver's seat, and leather seat trim. Safety kit includes Active Stability and Traction Control and Trailer Sway Control.

The full line-up and pricing will be announced closer to the vehicle's mid-2016 launch.

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