Feature article

Mitsubishi Triton NZ Review: Buying Guide

The Triton is Mitsubishi's contestant in the competitive ute market here in New Zealand.

Last updated: 12 July 2024


The Mitsubishi Triton is the firm's entrance into the ute market here in New Zealand. Triton has an expansive 14 model range with 2WD and 4WD options, double- and single-cab versions, and the choice of a well side or cab/chassis (the latter allowing you to fit a custom deck for your requirements). The range starts at $38,690 plus on road costs and tops out at $59,990. It has competitive capabilities and capacities, but Triton’s best aspect is its value for money. Like all Mitsubishi vehicles, the Triton comes with a 10 year/160,000km powertrain warranty along with a five year/ 130,000km new vehicle warranty.

3.5 tonnes of towing standard across the range

All models are powered by a 150kW/470Nm 2.4-litre diesel matched to a  six-speed auto. These numbers are relatively competitive against its rivals, not best in class, but it is rated as being Euro 6 emissions compliant, while most others are only at Euro5 levels.

All models can tow 3.5 tonnes (braked) and all have a payload figure in excess of one tonne. Generally speaking, there's a $2000 difference between cab/chassis and well side versions and a premium of between $5000 and $8000 for four-wheel drive, depending on the model grade. 

Mitsubishi’s 4x4 design is of the ‘Super Select’ variety, which means it has an all-wheel drive setting suitable for high-speed running on sealed roads. This is both helpful when it’s raining and when towing. Or towing when it’s raining. 

You pay extra for must-have ute items like a deck liner and tow bar (the latter from $1700), both of which come standard on utes like the Ranger and Amarok. Other Triton accessories include various tonneau covers and sports bars for the tray and nudge bars upfront. 

Big range, many options

There are three option when selecting your ideal Mitsubishi Triton:

GLX $38,690 - $50,740

The work-spec GLX is available in single or double cab configurations, and cab/chassis and well side variants. It’s rated at 8.6L/100km for the 2WD model and 8.8 for the 4WD. The payload ranges from 1319kg to 1056kg for the well side double cab. Some concessions to cost include vinyl floor coverings and there’s no smart key, but climate control air con makes the grade as do electric windows and rain sensing wipers. There’s a nine-inch touchscreen with navigation, Android Auto and wireless CarPlay.

Safety items include a reverse camera, forward collision mitigation, lane keeping, a driver attention alert and blindspot warning. There are plenty of airbags too including a driver’s knee, centre and curtain bags.

Browse Mitsubishi Triton GLX listings on Trade Me.

GLXR $44,990 - $53,990

The up-spec GLXR is available in two and four-wheel drive double cab configurations, starting at $44,990 for the 2WD cab chassis up to $53,990 for the 4WD well side. The extra spend gets you larger alloy wheels, carpet floor covering, smart key, dual zone climate and more bright work on the outside. It also has a few more safety features like auto high beams active and a surround view camera.  

Browse Mitsubishi Triton GLXR listings on Trade Me.

VRX $49,990 - $59,990

The VRX double cab is the top model, offered with two- and four-wheel drive, and in both cab/chassis and well side body styles. 

Along with different body styling and blacked out details, it gets even more bits inside like heated leather seating, dark titanium accents and extras like tyre pressure monitoring.

Browse Mitsubishi Triton VRX listings on Trade Me

Author

Kyle Cassidy
Kyle Cassidy
Editor NZ Autocar magazine - autocar.co.nz

Kyle has been reviewing cars since starting at NZ Autocar magazine in 2003 and has been editor since 2009. In that time he’s become an expert on what makes for a good vehicle while also gaining insights into the local automotive industry.