Mitsubishi’s First U.S. Truck in 25 Years Could Be the Just-Unveiled Triton
A 2024 Mitsubishi Triton pickup truck has been talked about and teased for some time, but now it’s official. The Japanese automaker just released images and specs for its global pickup. Mitsubishi last sold a pickup in the U.S. in 2009. The Raider was only one of several great models Mitsubishi has chosen to drop over the past few decades. We would like to see many come back, but first, let’s see what the 2024 Triton is all about.
First, this is a tough body-on-frame truck, not some unibody Maverick or Ridgeline. Second, it features brawny looks with an aggressive emphasis on the wheel openings and its bold fascia. As the sixth generation of its L200 pickup, as it sells elsewhere, it is an entirely new exercise. Nothing carries over from the previous L200, including its driveline.
What are the new features of the 2024 Mitsubishi Triton?
Mitsubishi is also offering the Triton with three bodies, a single cab, a club cab, and a double cab. There will also be a wide range of trims, with the version shown in these images being the top-of-the-line. The company says that all trims show plenty of distinctions rather than the typical trim piece or wheel arch change only.
Also new this year is Mitsubishi’s 2.4-liter turbodiesel four-cylinder engine. Coming in several different power versions, the base version spits out 146 hp and 243 lb-ft of torque. There is also a more powerful 181 hp engine with 317 lb-ft of torque, and the top engine with 201 hp and 347 lb-ft of torque. Of course, a gas-powered engine would need to be available for the U.S. market.
What kind of suspension does the Triton have?
Buyers can opt for either a six-speed manual transmission or an optional six-speed automatic and either two-wheel or optional four-wheel drive. With a nod to a possible U.S. entry, the all-new suspension redesign provides for maximum performance with an effort to soften the bumps. However, it doesn’t sacrifice off-road chops. An improved double-wishbone front suspension features lighter rear leaf springs and larger heavy-duty shocks.
But keep in mind that Mitsubishi’s aim is to compete in the 2023 Asia Cross Country Rally with its Ralliart racing team. These entries, which run from Thailand to Laos, will highlight the Triton’s ruggedness, as well as the spotlight on a hopeful victory. Win on Sunday, sell on Monday…
The plan, for now, is currently offering the pickup in Thailand, where the Triton is made. From there, Japan and surrounding Asian countries get theirs. And much like the U.S., Japan hasn’t seen a new Mitsubishi truck for 12 years. So the automaker’s home country gets the snub, too.
How much is the 2024 Mitsubishi Triton pickup?
In Thailand, the price is just over $20,000, according to Mitsubishi. Should Mitsubishi sort out the chicken tax woes for U.S. truck sales, wouldn’t a $20,000 pickup that looks like this be welcome? With the Ford Maverick also beginning at a similar price, the Triton would undoubtedly give it some strong competition.
Hey Mitsubishi: Ford can’t make enough Mavericks and just added another shift to increase production. There’s your motivation; now let’s get us some Triton pickups.