since 1976
since 1976
MALAYSIANS are spoilt for choice when it comes to the pick-up market and improved and better performing models from the respective brands aren’t making it easy for them to choose one to suit their respective lifestyle. Take Mitsubishi for one; it just introduced a new flagship to spice things up on its end.
This is the Triton Athlete that replaces the Adventure X as the flagship model. The Athlete name is not exactly new as Mitsubishi Motors Malaysia launched a Triton with this variant name in 2018 but dropped it when the latest Triton generation was introduced. Perhaps, it was decided that the Athlete name was easier for customers to relate to than Adventure X.
While there might not be any technical upgrade, it is the fresh aesthetics that should enhance appeal. Here, Mitsubishi Motors Malaysia says the Triton Athlete’s looks are accentuated by a gloss black front under garnish and ‘Dynamic Shield’ front design concept incorporating a gloss black grille along with sporty ‘Athlete’ graphic design side stripes.
Complementing its muscular stance is the black theme employed in the door mirrors, door handles, aero type window deflectors, side steps and 18-inch gloss black rims. This black theme design should blend well with the three standard colours that the Triton Athlete is available with; Sun Flare Orange Pearl, White Diamond and Jet Black Mica.
The interior is also well appointed to retain that tough outlook and yet reflect refinement to measure up to its flagship status. Items of note are in the orange-stitch leather wrapped steering wheel and gear knobs, and LED (light emitting diode) scuff plates. Mitsubishi Malaysia says the Triton Athlete also comes with a first-in-class rear air circulator.
Powering the Triton Athlete is the 2.4-litre MIVEC turbodiesel engine with Variable Valve Timing technology that delivers 133kW (181P) and 430Nm of torque. The transmission is a six-speed automatic that is well geared to the lifestyle driving the Triton Athlete is usually acquired for.
For off-road forays, the Super Select 4WD II comes with the off-road mode to provide optimum traction and handling characteristics ‘in any given terrain’, says Mitsubishi. There is also the Hill Descent Control that controls speed electronically when the Athlete is driven downhill. We did not get to experience this part of the new generation Triton during the Sabah drive in 2019 and hopefully, we would get to do so in the forthcoming Triton Athlete media drive.
And for a vehicle of its dimensional stature, its turning circle of 11.8 metres would come in handy when manoeuvring it tight spots, especially when parking. Of course, the reverse camera helps a lot too!
As the flagship model, the Triton Athlete comes equipped with a host of safety systems as standard - Forward Collision Mitigation, Blind Spot Warning with Lane Change Assist, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, Ultrasonic Misacceleration Mitigation System, Auto High Beam and 7 SRS airbags.
The Triton Athlete is also equipped with an All Round Monitor (ARM), Driving Video Recorder (DVR) and 7-Inch Touchscreen Audio with Apple Carplay and Android Ready as standard. Mitsubishi Motors Malaysia says the ARM, DVR and infotainment system upgrades are offered by its authorised dealers at all Mitsubishi Motors showroom nationwide.
The price for the Triton Athlete is described as competitive and attractive; RM141,500 on the road without insurance for private ownership. It comes with a five-year or 200,000km warranty.
Mitsubishi Motors Malaysia says the Triton is gaining popularity in the local pick-up market and this is reflected in the growing sale numbers. Seen as its volume seller, 7598 Tritons were sold in its financial year (April 2020-March 2021), a 32-per cent increase over the previous financial year.
We would tell you more about the Triton Athlete and our driving experience with it after the media drive that Mitsubishi Motors Malaysia has arranged, with SOPs being adhered to. – LPS
