Mitsubishi Triton

Urban sales of 4x4 diesel utes have leapt a massive 62% in the last five years. Why? Because diesel no longer means glacially slow, and pick-up is no longer synonymous with workman. Today’s utes don’t need hose-out interiors with little or no mod cons, which means it’s now easier than ever to haul a boat, carry five and still have room in the tray for gear.

Competition is stiff with Toyota, Nissan, Ford, Mazda and Holden all competing for buyers with Mitsubishi Triton. Splitting them is a tough job. All feature turbo-charged, four-cylinder engines from 2.5-3.0lt. Engine performance for the group ranges from 86-110kW and 280-315Nm, which puts Triton’s new turbo diesel midfield.

Don’t be fooled by our use of the word “new” - this engine is new to Triton only. It was originally a Pajero turbo diesel engine before the current model’s direct injection unit, so it’s been on Aussie roads for a number of years now.

As well as being the previous Pajero’s engine, this 2.8lt engine block is exactly the same as the previous Triton diesel, with the addition of a turbocharger and intercooler. Because of this, power grows a healthy 30% from 71kW to 92kW and torque jumps a hefty 49% from 198Nm to 294Nm.

Accordingly, performance is improved, the Triton accelerating from rest to 80kmh four seconds faster and covering a standing quarter mile 2.7 seconds quicker than before.

Triton’s five-speed manual gearbox features slightly taller gearing than before, made possible by the increase in engine performance. Fuel economy is down marginally over the naturally aspirated Triton, returning a combined city/highway cycle of 9.4lt/100km.

Other mechanical changes include a recalibration of the front suspension to account for the 65kg increase in weight, and the inclusion of a bigger alternator to better handle aftermarket accessories like spotlights, car fridges, CB radios, winches and the like.

So, does the more powerful engine mount a more persuasive argument for shopping the triple diamond in the 4x4 diesel market? Certainly. The vehicle is noticeably more responsive to the throttle, both off the mark and when overtaking, and there’s less compulsion to row the gearbox when facing an uphill climb. It’s not quick by passenger car standards, but certainly performs against its competition.

The Triton’s ride is unbelievably stiff, especially in the rear. The vehicle we test drove had 200kg of cement in the tray, and it was still a bumpy ride over broken ground. That’s somewhat to be expected in a vehicle whose rear suspension must be capable of hauling one tonne in the tray and up to 2.2 tonnes on the towbar.

With the old Pajero engine now under the bonnet, the Triton is better equipped than ever to do these kinds of tasks. Our only complaint with the Triton is its outdated cabin, which falls behind the competition with very few creature comforts and cubbyholes. Oh, and the cupholders, which completely block access to the radio controls. Minor gripes, and ones that are likely to be with us at least until the next Triton in three to four years.