2024 Mitsubishi Triton GSR review

06/27/2024 08:53 PM

2024 Mitsubishi Triton GSR

In a country like Australia where utes make up the top-selling models annually, it will come as no surprise that the Triton is second only to medium SUV the Outlander as Mitsubishi's best-selling model.

But in the last few years, the Triton seems to have hit a bit of a stalemate. It has not been able to compete with the likes of the Isuzu D-Max, Toyota HiLux or Ford Ranger in terms of technology and capability, but equally it’s getting out-priced by models from South Korean and Chinese brands that have been able to be more competitive in their pricing. 

So with the sixth generation of the Triton ute in showrooms now, Mitsubishi has actively targeted all of the tired points in the outgoing model and gone hell-to-leather updating the technology, safety, power, performance and towing capability in the new iteration. Even its size has increased. And guess what else has increased too? That's right: the price.  

I have spent the last week in the top-spec Triton GSR. With more comfort-laden features than the lower-level specs, the GSR and mid-spec GLS are arguably the most family-friendly variants of the pack, which suits me as any ute I'm in will spend more time in the city and suburbs than going head-to-head with the Australian bush. 

So will this latest iteration be refreshed enough to contend with Australia’s top-selling vehicles? Or will it still be outshone by rivals either side of its price point?

How much is a Mitsubishi Triton?

If you're in the market for a Triton, then you've got six variants so far of the new generation to choose from, all dual-cab at this stage with single- and extra-cab models launching later in a staggered introduction. The entry-level GLX 4×2 dual-cab starts at $43,690, while the GLX 4×4 starts at $50,940, both before on-road costs.

The spec up from that is the GLX+, which starts at $50,340. Then the second-from-top GLS starts at $59,090. This model has increased by $7600 compared to the previous generation, which is the highest price increase for any variant.

That aside, this model has much the same safety, technology and creature comforts as the highest-spec GSR, including Super Select II four-wheel drive with four-wheel-drive capability on sealed surfaces, bigger wheels than the lower-spec models, and a tub liner. Plus, there are leather-appointed seats, which are also heated and power-adjustable in the front, a gloss black front grille, dual-zone auto climate control, keyless entry, push-button start, LED headlights, tail-lights, indicators and front fog lights.

So for an extra $4000, what do you get in the $63,840 GSR that you don’t get in the GLS? The answer to that is black 18-inch alloy wheels, a body-coloured front grille, black wheel-arch flares, sailplane sports bar, roof rails, powered seat adjustment in the driver's seat, and then a range of different interior features like leather seats with orange stitching, GSR floor mats with Triton lettering, two dash-mounted cupholders and soft interior padding to name but a few.

Given engine size and power outputs are the same across all variants, the $4000 extra you're paying for the GSR over the GLS is purely cosmetic. Worth the extra spend? I'm not sure I'm convinced at this stage, but I’ll hold my thoughts until the end. 

On that note, all variants of the 2024 Mitsubishi Triton pick-up come with a 2.4-litre twin-turbo diesel engine.

The three utes that currently dominate the market are the Triton’s most obvious competitors: the Ford Ranger, Toyota HiLux and Isuzu D-Max. The Ford Ranger was Australia's top-selling ute in 2023, and has consistently been Drive's highest-rated ute over the years. Notably the Ford Ranger has won Drive's Dual Cab Ute of the Year two years in the row in both 2023 and 2024.

A similarly specced Ranger Sport Bi-Turbo, starting from $66,140 before options and on-road costs, is the most comparable with the GSR. Though it comes with a smaller 2.0-litre engine, it does have a marginally higher power and torque output at 154kW/500Nm respectively. Ford then steps the range up through Wildtrak and Platinum grades if your pockets are deep enough. 

The Toyota HiLux was the second best-selling ute in Australia in 2023, and prior to that was the best-seller for seven years previously. Like the Ranger, the price of the top-spec HiLux GR Sport is well beyond the price of the top-spec Triton GSR, so instead I would consider the mid-spec SR5, which starts at $63,260 in auto, to be the GSR’s closest competitor.

This model has a bigger engine than the Triton GSR at 2.8 litres, and while power output is the same at 150kW, torque is slightly improved in the HiLux at 500Nm versus the GSR’s 470Nm. But one serious shortfall of the HiLux SR5 is its payload of just 240kg, when its 5850kg GCM rating is considered towing its maximum 3500kg. This is less than half that of the GSR.

Finally on the competitor list is the Isuzu D-Max. The range-topping X-Terrain starts at $67,990 drive-away, meaning there’s not much between the top-spec Triton and the top-spec D-Max. Alternatively, the second-from-top LS-U+ starts at $65,500, which is more directly comparable with the Triton GSR. Both specs of the D-Max come with a 3.0-litre turbo diesel engine, though the D-Max’s power and torque outputs (140kW, 450Nm) are noticeably smaller than the Ranger, HiLux and Triton.

Meanwhile, if value is more the priority for you, then the GWM Ute and Ssangyong Musso are worth considering. While neither can boast the power output that the 2024 Triton can, the highest-spec GWM Ute, the Cannon XSR, is just $52,990 drive-away and is packed with a heck of a lot of equipment. The same can be said for the Ssangyong Musso Adventure, which is even more affordable at $42,500 drive-away. 

Let’s get back to the Triton GSR, though. Unlike the other variants, the GSR comes in just four colours. My test model comes in Black Mica, which comes at no extra cost in the top spec, but will set you back $740 in the lower-spec variants. You can also opt for Yamabuki Orange or Graphite Grey, or White Diamond which will cost you $200. 

This iteration of Triton is also larger than ever before, standing at 15mm longer, 50mm wider and sitting on a 50mm broader wheel track. The wheelbase has also increased by 130mm to 3130mm, and is now on par with competitors in the segment. As a result of this size increase, the vehicle takes on a bulkier, boxier stance than before which looks powerful, especially in the black paint job my model comes with. The GSR also comes with the addition of roof rails and flares. 

How big is a Mitsubishi Triton?

It might well be inside this car that you'll notice the greatest difference between the generations. While the outgoing version felt dated both in terms of design and tech, this sixth-generation model feels well and truly on par with its competitors. Take this from someone who spends several car journeys a week in a 2012 Mitsubishi Triton. 

Immediately stepping in the car, the first thing I notice is the addition of space thanks to the extended size. As well as making the cabin feel lighter and airier, it does offer more practicality – leg room and head room are both improved compared to the previous generation. 

Don't get me wrong, there are still some elements of the interior that feel very traditionally Triton; the panel of (physical) buttons to control the dual-zone temperature for example. But this is complemented by various mod-cons. You have 12V, USB-C and USB-A power ports available in the front and a wireless charging pad in both this spec and the GLS. 

Storage comes in the form of a fairly deep central console, door pockets, a nook under the air-conditioning controls and cupholders. The GSR also comes with pop-out cupholders on the dashboard. A luxury feature albeit an unnecessary one that you won't get in any other spec.

This spec and the lower-spec GLS are upholstered with leather and powered driver seats, which are comfortable and supportive on longer journeys. Mitsubishi has also raised the hip point of the driver's seat by 20mm to ensure a more upright posture. Other driver-centric thoughtful features include door handles and the 4WD selector designed to be the 'perfect fit' for fingers, while the steering wheel rim is designed to offer a secure grip for fingers. 

As for the overall feel of the cabin, it's a combination of soft-touch, cushioned plastics and piano black, which looks good though may not fare well in general wear and tear over the car's lifetime.

The second row of the car also reaps the benefits of the extended size, with a little more leg and head room that is now on par with the Isuzu D-Max. Even so, I did find my son's child seat was a bit of a squeeze. I know, I know: dual-cab utes were never built with 18-month-olds in mind, but the reality is these utes are fast becoming either the primary or secondary cars for many families, and it would be remiss of these brands to overlook how well their models accommodate back-seat passengers. 

Talking of child seats, all specs of the Triton come fitted with two top-tether points and two sets of ISOFIX points. 

Amenities in the back include another set of 12V, USB-A and USB-C power ports. Rather than console-mounted air vents, Mitsubishi has stuck with a roof-mounted vent that draws cool or heated air from the front of the cabin and pushes that air second-hand into the back. This is certainly one of the more archaic features that Mitsubishi has decided to retain. 

The tub varies from spec to spec, but the GSR could be accused of being a little lacking given it's the top spec. There are tie-down points but no power outlets, and the roller cover is operated manually rather than automatically. The same goes for the tailgate, which also requires manual locking. 

Does the Mitsubishi Triton have Apple CarPlay and Android Auto?

The 9.0-inch infotainment screen supports Apple CarPlay wirelessly and Android Auto via a wired connection. You will get the same size screen in an Isuzu D-Max, while the Toyota HiLux is 8.0 inches. Meanwhile in the Ford Ranger, you're looking at a 10.1-inch screen in the mid-spec Sport; this goes up to 12 inches in the top-spec Platinum and Raptor, so if you're set on having the latest and greatest tech in your ute, then take this into consideration.

I flicked between wired and wireless connectivity and had no trouble with either, and there is a wireless phone charger too if you need it. 

The car comes with digital radio, AM, FM and navigation. The graphics in the Triton are, if I’m going to be pedantic, a little bit dated compared to those in competitors, but everything worked without a hitch.  

The 7.0-inch digital instrument cluster is clear and offers a variety of different displays depending on your preference, though this screen is interrupted by the frustratingly frequent distracted driver alert – more on that to come.

Is the Mitsubishi Triton a safe car?

The Mitsubishi Triton received an ANCAP rating of five stars as recently as February 2024. This applies to all dual-cab variants. The vehicle was rated 86 per cent for adult occupant protection, 89 per cent for child occupant protection, 74 per cent for vulnerable road user protection and 70 per cent for safety assist. 

It has dual frontal, side chest-protecting and side head-protecting airbags and a driver’s knee airbag. A centre airbag for front seat passengers is also included. 

What safety technology does the Mitsubishi Triton have?

Mitsubishi has taken great strides in improving the safety technology in this new-generation Triton, and the brand has installed a range of interlinked safety systems (under the MiTec, or Mitsubishi Intelligent Technology, banner) in all four variants, meaning you can access the same catalogue of technology regardless of spec. 

This includes, but is not limited to, many of the usual functions you find in modern cars: autonomous emergency braking (AEB) with cyclist and pedestrian detection, and junction assist, rear autonomous emergency braking, lane-departure prevention and warning, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert and optional front cross-traffic alert – installed in the vehicle, but requiring activation by a Mitsubishi dealer at no additional cost. 

Then there are the safety features that are more unique to utes and 4×4 vehicles: trailer stability assist, hill start assist and hill descent control, active stability control and active traction control. 

A multi-angled monitor, rear-view camera and front and rear parking sensors were helpful in negotiating the car into tight parking spots, particularly as I'm not used to driving a ute. 

The vehicle also comes with a driver monitoring system and driver attention alert, which were the only two systems that I found to be intrusive at best, activating incorrectly at worst. The system doesn't recognise sunglasses, so you will hear pinging and dinging until you hit the 'OK' button. And I got an awful lot of 'Driver drowsiness detected' notifications, which I wasn't, but I’ll be sure to make extra effort to cover up the bags under my eyes next time in a Triton. 

How much does the Mitsubishi Triton cost to run?

If you are willing to commit exclusively to dealership servicing, then Mitsubishi is able to offer a 10-year warranty and 10-year capped-price servicing to match. Servicing intervals are every 12 months or 15,000km – whichever comes first – and a decade of servicing will set you back $6690.

While a 10-year capped-price servicing offer is compelling, the yearly cost is quite high compared to rivals who offer shorter warranties, though visibility this far in advance does allow owners to budget for these costs – a comfort to some during this current economic climate. 

If you miss one of the scheduled services according to Mitsubishi’s guidelines, the warranty reverts to five years or 100,000km. This is pretty much on par with its competitors: Ford and Toyota both offer five-year/unlimited-kilometre warranties, although Ford irons out as the cheaper brand to service over a longer period. Isuzu, meanwhile, offers a six-year warranty and seven years of capped-price servicing, and GWM offers a seven-year/unlimited-kilometre warranty. 

One leading insurer quoted $1754 to insure the Triton annually. This is based on a comparative quote for a 35-year-old male driver living in Chatswood, NSW. Insurance estimates may vary based on your location, driving history, and personal circumstances.

This was a little more expensive than insuring a Ford Ranger Sport ($1683) or Toyota HiLux SR5 ($1679). Meanwhile, the top-spec Isuzu D-Max would cost $1815 to insure annually. 

For reference, the mid-spec GLS is $1578 to insure – more affordable than the two mid-spec Ranger and HiLux.

Is the Mitsubishi Triton fuel-efficient?

After a week in the Triton, I returned a fuel reading of 9.1 litres per 100 kilometres. Including a jaunt from South Sydney up to the Central Coast, this was predominantly highway and suburban driving. My real-world testing is a little higher than Mitsubishi's claimed fuel consumption of 7.7L/100km, though I did manage to deliver a fuel reading of 9.1L/100km when driving entirely around the city, when the claimed consumption for city driving is 9.6L/100km. 

Like its competitors, the Triton is a diesel vehicle, which naturally will increase ownership costs, but it is still one of the more efficient utes in the market when it comes to fuel consumption. Better still, this new-generation model has noticeably more efficient fuel economy than its predecessor.

What is the Mitsubishi Triton like to drive?

First things first: the Triton GSR features a 2.4-litre twin-turbo four-cylinder diesel engine producing 150kW of power and 470Nm of torque, which is matched with a six-speed automatic transmission. Compare this to the outgoing top-spec Triton that produced 133kW and 430Nm.

The increased size of the car certainly makes a difference once you’re behind the wheel, as I find the driver’s seat more comfortable and supported before even turning the engine on. The ride quality is certainly smoother, which I’m putting down to the longer wheelbase and the weight, though the car remains quite firm over bumps.

Cabin noise is kept to a relative minimum, although you do hear that turbo diesel engine slugging away, which feels par for the course in a ute. Too much peace and serenity would feel quite incongruous in a car capable of off-roading.

The four-cylinder twin-turbo diesel engine aids performance but also refinement as well, and progresses with ease through the rev range. On that note, it’s not a high-revving vehicle but it feels consistent and strong. The six-speed automatic gearbox also shifts smoothly.

In the GSR and GLS, the Super Select II combines a gear-based Torsen centre differential that means all four wheels can be locked for four-wheel driving but can also be driven on-road, which makes them arguably more suited to being the primary family car than the other variants. These two variants also have a less stiff suspension package than the GLX and GLX+, so provide more consistent comfort.

Thanks to the Triton’s updated safety and technology, I felt completely comfortable meandering through suburbs and smaller city roads than I would have in the previous-generation model. While the driver monitoring system is an unwelcome regular interruption, the other safety features came in handy. For example, the 360-degree camera when navigating a tight parking spot and the blind-spot monitoring system on busier streets.

How much weight can a Mitsubishi Triton tow?

The Triton offers up to 3500kg of braked towing capacity – 400kg more than the previous generation that could handle 3100kg. 

This new generation also has a higher gross combination mass (GCM) than the previous generation at 6250kg. 

However, it's important to note that if you want to tow the maximum amount, the Triton's payload will reduce to 580kg, which needs to account for all your passengers, accessories, gear and ball weight. So yes you can technically tow up to 3500kg, but if you have 350kg of ball mass then your payload gets reduced to 230kg. This isn't a problem exclusive to just the Triton, though, and tends to be an issue for utes across the board – apart from the 79 Series LandCruiser, and plus-sized US utes. 

Should I buy a Mitsubishi Triton?

In the 2024 Triton, Mitsubishi has demonstrated an advancement in technology, comfort, safety and overall performance, and on top of that the vehicle now boasts a better payload, a greater towing capacity and is better off-road. It also simply looks better inside and out – less tired, modernised, and with thoughtful details. All in all, the price increase across each spec feels entirely justified and Triton enthusiasts certainly won't be disappointed. 

All this aside, it still can't quite match the likes of market leaders Ford Ranger and Toyota HiLux in terms of performance, and can't beat the GWM Ute or Ssangyong Musso from a pricing perspective. 

But for those looking for a top-spec ute that is a genuine rival to those aforementioned market leaders, then the Triton GSR is a very compelling option.

Truth be told, if the top spec doesn't matter to you, then I think the second-down GLS is the sweet spot given it comes with the same standard tech and safety as the GSR, as well as most of the same luxuries. Additionally, if you’re hoping to double up your Triton as a family car, then either the GSR or GLS would be my recommendation.

I still don’t think the Triton is the best in the segment, but it's a giant step forward for Mitsubishi, and I dare say will poach a few customers away from the Ford-Toyota-Isuzu trifecta.

How do I buy a Mitsubishi Triton? The next steps.

With any new car purchase, I would recommend that you head down to your nearest dealer for a test drive, and try a couple of competitors as well. In this instance, I would weigh up whether price or capability is more of a priority to you, and make your shortlist of competitors based on that decision.

If price is more important, then have a go in the Ssangyong Musso and GWM Ute. If it’s capability, then try the Ford Ranger, the Toyota HiLux and the Isuzu D-Max. I also think it’s worth test-driving a couple of different variants within the Triton line-up: the GLS and GSR are my picks.

You can find your nearest Mitsubishi dealership here to inquire about a test drive and availability of your preferred variant, or use Drive marketplace to find Mitsubishi Tritons for sale near you.

If you want to stay updated with everything that’s happened to the Triton since our review, you’ll find all the latest news here.

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