Review: Mitsubishi ML Triton utility (2006-09)

Overview

Released in July 2006, the Mitsubishi ML Triton utility was initially available with a dual cab body, with single cabs following in 2007. Engine choices initially consisted of a 3.2-litre turbo-diesel or a 3.5-litre petrol V6, though a 2.4-litre petrol engine was introduced for an entry-level single cab GL variant in April 2007 and a 2.5-litre turbo-diesel engine was introduced in May 2008.

Compared to its MK predecessor, the ML Triton had a hydro-formed fully boxed frame chassis which provided greater rigidity. The ML Triton also had independent front suspension (with double wishbones and coil springs) and a live rear axle with leaf springs.

4WD system

The Triton’s part-time four-wheel drive system was controlled by a conventional floor lever which enabled the selection of low-range gears ‘on the fly’ and at speeds of up to 80 km/h due to the automatically locking front hubs. From July 2008, however, Mitsubishi’s ‘Super Select’ four-wheel drive system was introduced for the turbo-diesel VR, GLX-R and GLS variants. The Super Select system enabled drivers to select between four driving modes –

• 2H: two-wheel drive with high range gears for general driving;
• 4H: full-time four-wheel drive with high range for extra traction;
• 4HLC: four-wheel drive, high range with a locked centre differential (4HLC) for bush tracks; and,
• 4LLC: four-wheel drive, low range with a locked centre differential for extreme off-roading.

Safety equipment

Standard safety equipment for the ML Triton included dual front airbags and front seatbelts with pretensioners and load limiters. The Triton VR, GLX-R and GLS variants were further equipped with ABS and electronic brake force distribution.

ANCAP crash testing

In ANCAP crash testing , an ML Triton 4WD Dual Cab utility received a score of 9.08 out of 16 in the offset crash test, providing marginal protection from serious leg injury for the driver and a moderate risk of serious chest injury for the front passengers. The Triton was awarded a default score of 16 out of 16 for the side impact crash test, leading to a four star adult occupant protection rating with a total score of 25.08 out of 37. Mitsubishi provided evidence that all ML Triton variants could be expected to provide comparable front occupant protection to the Dual Cab tested.

Features

Standard features for the Triton GL included 16-inch steel wheels, a two speaker sound system with CD player and MP3-compatibility, air conditioning, remote central locking, power windows, a tilt adjustable steering wheel, 12 volt power outlet and immobiliser.

The Triton GLX was further equipped with power mirrors, with Dual Cab models adding a four speaker sound system.

The Triton VR added 16-inch alloy wheels, a six speaker sound system, front fog lights, leather-wrapped steering wheel and gear knob, carpeted floor, courtesy lamps, tinted windows and trip computer. Visually, the VR (and above) variants were also differentiated by their chrome door handles and door mirrors, roll bar and side steps.

The Triton GLX-R also featured Bluetooth connectivity, floor mats and a hard tonneau cover, while the range-topping Triton GLS was distinguished by climate control air conditioning and its eight-way power adjustable driver’s seat with height adjustment.

May 2008: Triton update

From May 2008, the double cab GLX-R and GLS variants were fitted with 17-inch alloy wheels, while all four-wheel drive models with the 3.2-litre turbo-diesel engine were fitted with cruise control.

Brochure

• Brochure: Mitsubishi ML Triton (September 2008)

Related links

• Wikipedia.org: Mitsubishi Triton (fourth generation)