Mitsubishi debuts tough Triton concept
BY ROBBIE WALLIS | 26th Mar 2019
MITSUBISHI has used the Bangkok motor show to unveil its Triton Absolute concept, which takes a 4x4 dual-cab Triton and adds a number of visual and mechanical enhancements, and could possibly foreshadow a top-spec Triton variant Down Under.
Mitsubishi Motors Australia Limited (MMAL) has said it will keep a close eye on the reception that the Triton Absolute receives to gauge whether it could materialise into a production model for the brand.
MMAL CEO John Signoriello said the Triton Absolute represents where the Japanese car-maker can go with its one-tonne pick-up.
“It demonstrates our commitment to exploring a vision of the future Triton that will deliver on our ‘engineered beyond tough’ commitment to the Triton series – bold enough to be taken on even more adventurous treks to explore Australia's rugged outback, which is one of Mitsubishi’s defining strengths,” he said.
“While only a concept at this stage, we will assess the feedback from customers in Australia and overseas towards a more aggressive Triton which will guide the brand’s future product development.”
The Triton Absolute concept is decked out in a menacing all-black bodykit with silver and red contrasting accents, starting at the front with enhanced LED lighting, bumper underbody protection and roof-mounted LED driving lights.
At the rear, the Triton Absolute scores a special rear bumper, Absolute badging, imprinted Mitsubishi lettering across the tailgate, a bootlip lid spoiler, tub rails and a black sports bar.
An integrated roof rack is fitted up top, while a carbon-fibre-look protective body panelling has been added for tough looks and to accommodate the Triton Absolute’s wider wheel track.
To enhance its prowess off the blacktop, chunky 285/65 Falken Wildpeak all-terrain tyres have been fitted, wrapped around 18-inch beadlocked black factory alloy wheels.
Also aiding off-road ability is a 50mm suspension lift, that enables greater wheel travel and enhances on-road ride and handling.
No changes have been made to the Triton’s powerplant, namely a 2.4-litre turbo-diesel four-cylinder engine producing 133kW at 3500rpm and 430Nm at 2500rpm, mated to either a six-speed manual or six-speed torque-convertor automatic transmissions.
A heavily facelifted Triton arrived in Australia at the start of the year, which through February has resulted in a surge in sales for the 4x4 variant, up 51.9 per cent year-on-year to 4476 units, however 4x2 sales have dipped 21.7 per cent over the same period from 480 to 376 units.
The Triton Absolute will be showcased to the public over the next 12 months.
