As the shuttle bus rolls to a stop on the wide tarmac at Mitsubishi’s Okazaki plant, a scene unfolds: a marquee tent bustling with marketing teams, engineers, and senior management, all positioned near meticulously arranged presentations. Just outside, three gentlemen stand abreast—aged but fit, their attire immaculate, offer a gentle wave to the arriving party.

This is Okazaki, Mitsubishi’s premier R&D and test centre, where every new Mitsubishi is designed and developed, including the all-new 2024 Mitsubishi Triton. Those three gentlemen, as I later learn, are Mitsubishi’s elite test drivers—the ones who give the final nod of approval. Two of them hold the coveted Mitsubishi ‘S’ license, the highest accolade for a test driver, yet their unassuming presence belies their deep ties to Mitsubishi’s storied motorsport legacy.

The 2024 Triton bears a weighty responsibility: it’s not just a truck—it’s a torchbearer. It must deliver significant growth, transcend the company’s past, and convince buyers it is the ultimate truck on the market. Today, we find out if it succeeds.

Overview – Faster, stronger and more intelligent

The all-new 2024 Mitsubishi Triton represents a comprehensive redesign, marking the first full overhaul in nine years. By the time this review is published, the Triton will have been officially launched in Malaysia, with finalized specs and pricing available. Therefore, this report serves as an early impression of what to expect, though exact variants may differ.

The following are the summarised major changes to the 2024 Triton:

Frame and Chassis: The new ladder frame features a 65% larger cross-sectional area, boosting bending rigidity by 60% and torsional rigidity by 40%. High-tensile steel minimizes weight gain, improving durability, load capacity, and crash safety.

Dimensions and Size: Larger dimensions provide more cabin space and cargo capacity. This is how the 2024 compares in terms of dimensions to the outgoing 5th-generation model.

Powertrain: Under the hood, the Triton introduces the newly developed 2.4L 4N16 clean diesel turbo engine. This engine is available in three output variants, catering to different needs. The high-output version delivers 204 PS and 470 Nm of torque, achieved through a new 2-stage turbocharger and updated combustion system.

There are two standard versions featuring single-variable geometry turbochargers producing 150 PS with 430 Nm of torque and 184 PS with 470 Nm respectively. All engines are paired with either a 6-speed automatic or 6-speed manual transmission, sending power to all four wheels via Mitsubishi's Super Select 4WD-II system.

Suspension and handling: Front double wishbone suspension gains a higher-mounted upper arm, increasing stroke by 20 mm. The rear leaf spring setup is lighter and paired with thicker shock absorbers for a smoother ride.

Brakes and traction Systems: The Triton’s braking and traction systems have been upgraded to complement its increased power and size. The new Super Select 4WD-II system lets drivers switch between various modes, optimizing traction for different terrains.

It features a torque-sensing limited-slip differential, distributing power 40% to the front and 60% to the rear, enhancing both traction and cornering. The system offers seven drive modes for versatile performance. Additionally, the newly added Active Yaw Control (AYC)—borrowed from the Lancer Evolution models—improves cornering stability by lightly braking the inside front wheel during turns.

Advanced Safety Systems (ADAS): On the safety front, the Triton has seen significant advancements. The vehicle is now equipped with Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC), which automatically adjusts speed to maintain a safe distance from the vehicle ahead. Other key features include the Forward Collision Mitigation system (FCM), Blind Spot Warning (BSW) with Lane Change Assist (LCA), and Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA)

Exterior - From sleek to brutish

Approaching the all-new 2024 Mitsubishi Triton, its larger, more imposing stature is immediately noticeable—longer, taller, and wider than its predecessor. Unlike its sleek predecessor, the 2024 Triton looks bolder and more imposing.

With its split headlamp and L-shaped LED DRL assembly, there is a subtle nod to American pick-up design. Given its tall shoulder line and blocky edges, it's reminiscent of the Chevrolet Silverado, which is no bad thing.

Every aspect has been optimized for functionality in the 2024 Triton, from improved aerodynamics and more durable door handles to wider side steps with better water drainage. The cargo bed height is lowered by 45 mm for easier access, and the bumper corners have been reinforced to become a sturdy foot space.

Rounding off the look are tail lights with T-shaped graphics for a clean but technical look.

Interior - Premium but it remains functional

Stepping inside the all-new 2024 Mitsubishi Triton, the interior immediately mirrors the truck’s rugged exterior. Mitsubishi has prioritized comfort and functionality, creating a durable yet functional space.

Inside, the 2024 Triton does away with its predecessor's curvy dashboard architecture, in its place is the "Horizontal Axis" design which uses clean lines and blocky sections for the switchgear and instrument cluster.

The dashboard noticeably appears wider than before, and elsewhere, the metallic-finished trim and piano-style buttons add a touch of style on the inside. Alas, there was limited time to test the infotainment system but from the outset, the overall layout is good, clearly legible and easy to operate—we'd have to reserve final judgement until we test the Malaysian market model.

Equally impressive is the 7-inch LCD instrument cluster which delivers very crisp readouts - with driving information placed between the RPM counter and speedometer, it's very easy to understand what the car is doing.

Seating comfort both at the front and rear is also superb. The front seats provide firm lower back support and hip support, at the same time feeling well-textured. Round the back, the seat backrest is more upright than before, but it's also more supportive with thicker padding to reduce fatigue on longer drives.

Mitsubishi also claims that the 2024 Triton features a 20 mm higher hip point, further improving driving position and overall visibility.

Driving experience

During the test drive, I explored three driving scenarios: a road course, an off-road course, and a handling course.

Road Course: The 2024 Triton's cockpit initially impresses with a commanding seating position and well-laid-out controls. The steering feels quick and responsive to inputs and the Triton feels taut and surefooted even as we move swiftly through some quick direction changes on the test course.

Powering through the gears, the engine proves sublime. Where its predecessors only provided a strong torque over a relatively short bandwidth, the new updated 204 PS / 470 Nm 4N16 proves effortless right from 1,400 rpm all the way to about 4,500 rpm.

Power is both linear and strong due to the two-stage turbocharger system, and refinement is also noticeably better, there is now less vibration during gearchanges and under hard acceleration. The 2024 Triton's engine proves its mettle even over the rougher surfaces during the test as well, where the older mill lacked responsiveness.

As for the less powerful, 181 PS and 430 Nm 2.4-litre engine, this is closer in terms of performance to the outgoing model, but there is improvement in power delivery and refinement as well.

As for the transmission, both models we drove featured the 6-speed automatic transmission, which proves to be quick up and down the cogs. Rising to speeds of about 100 km/h on the high-speed section, the transmission proved to be intuitive to change up to keep revs low or shift into a lower gear when more acceleration is needed.

Off-Road Course:

Next was the off-road course, where we navigated muddy water crossings and steep hills. This is where the different drive modes really stood out, especially 'Mud' mode, which lets the tyres slip just enough before regaining traction.

The 2024 Triton sets itself apart as the only model in its class with a split-locking centre differential available in '4H' mode. Most part-time 4WD systems lock the centre differential—technically a transfer case—because they can’t accommodate rotational differences between the front and rear axles on high-traction surfaces like asphalt, leading to transmission windup. That’s why most trucks can't use 4H on paved roads.

The Triton's Super Select 4WD II system allows torque to vary between the axles in 4H, making it usable on tarmac within reasonable limits (though the drivetrain will still tighten up during tight turns). The advantage is that you can drive in this mode by default.

When switching to 4HLc mode, the centre differential fully locks, like other trucks, to ensure equal power distribution to both axles for maximum grip.

In tighter, slower sections filled with thick mud, we engaged the low-range 4LLc mode. The Triton tackled steep hills with impressive rear axle articulation, allowing up to 300 mm of suspension travel, which kept the wheels firmly planted.

Thus, though brief, the 2024 Triton tackled the challenging course with impressive traction and manoeuvrability.

Handling Course: The final exercise was the most impressive. In a 6-speed manual GLS variant, one of the aforementioned instructors took the wheel. With calm precision, he navigates an uphill section, showcasing the manual's smooth, rifle-like shifts.

At lower speeds and on rougher surfaces, another trait also becomes quickly apparent, the 2024 Triton's rear-end is far more composed now. The previous generation Triton (Athlete in particular) was rather stiffly sprung when unladen, creating excessive movement over typical highway expansion joints and small bumps, In this regard, the 2024 Triton fares much better.

As we gained speed, the Triton’s agility shone through, confidently handling high-speed sections and tucking into corners like a sports SUV, while maintaining superb rear-end traction. The 2024 Triton offers exceptional grip, stability, and body rigidity, staying flat through quick direction changes. Flying over a rally-style crest, the Triton lands and settles back on all fours without a hitch, leaving me thoroughly impressed.

It’s tough to describe just how agile the 2024 Triton is, but it's safe to say, that aside from the Ford Ranger Raptor, no other truck in its class can match the Triton on a challenging road course.

Conclusion

The 2024 Mitsubishi Triton is a product that needs no introduction, but with its legacy comes high expectations. Based on our initial impressions, it not only meets but exceeds these expectations. The new 4N16 powertrain has been refined, offering improved torque delivery and throttle response, while the rear end is notably more composed, addressing the shortcomings of its predecessor.

Mitsubishi has also maintained its strengths, designing an interior that balances rugged durability with modern style, making it appealing to both lifestyle buyers and those who need a reliable workhorse. Coupled with its bold, muscular design, the 2024 Triton is poised and certainly looks like it has to chops to succeed.

However, beyond being just a better pickup truck, the 2024 Triton must stand for something more. It needs to be the torchbearer that bridges Mitsubishi’s storied past with its future, embodying the technical creativity and competitive spirit that have made the brand renowned worldwide.

This truck should also serve as a testament to the people who created the legend. As we departed, the three gentlemen who had waved us in earlier stood there once more. To them, I say—job well done, Sirs.

Also read: All-new 2024 Mitsubishi Triton launched in Malaysia - WRC-derived AYC, new single cab, priced from RM 101,980

Also read: Boosted by a new Single Cab variant, Mitsubishi Motors Malaysia targets 30% increase in new gen 2024 Triton's sales