Mitsubishi’s new rival to top end HiLux

This is the fully-loaded one

Modern ute ranges are bewildering. Once you’ve decided that four-wheel-drive and an automatic transmission are necessary, you can choose from single cab, club cab or double cab bodies. Settle on the latter, then decide whether you want a cab-chassis or pick-up body before facing further choices.

There are GLX, GLS, and GSR models, and extra versions with “+” or “R” suffixes that deliver additional kit.

If you walk into a Mitsubishi showroom and ask for one with the lot, they’ll point you to the top end Mitsubishi Triton GSR that costs about $65,490 drive-away.

But wait, there’s more

Further options include a black and tan leather interior ($1000), plus genuine accessories such as a water wading snorkel ($1068), wheel arch flares ($1391), and a front protection bar ($4955). A tow bar ($1393) is a good idea, and you’ll want an electric trailer brake controller ($788) too. We think a wireless phone charger ($398) is nice to have, and you should ask the salesperson to throw in a set of floor mats ($119), because you’re about to spend $80,000 on a ute.

Manufacturers reckon ute customers spend thousands on accessories. It’s easy to see why aftermarket parts companies such as ARB are worth billions.

It’s not about the numbers

The Triton is a good ute. It has plenty of safety gear and is slightly smaller than the likes of Ford’s Ranger, making it a little easier to manoeuvre in town. But it won’t win barking battles at the pub – Mitsubishi’s machine has a relatively small 2.4-litre four-cylinder turbo diesel engine with 133kW and 430Nm maximums. It’s not as punchy as a Toyota HiLux, and its 3.1 tonne towing capacity can’t match the 3500 kilo maximums of class leaders. But we’re not bothered by that – the Triton is cheaper than the Ford or Toyota, and will get the job done for most customers. It’s not the most modern or powerful pick-up, but it’s definitely worth a look.

One number is bigger than the rest

Five-year warranties are standard in the car industry, but Mitsubishi doubles that with a 10-year guarantee.

That’s an attractive proposition for folks who plan to hang onto their car for more than a few years.

It’s worth remembering that Mitsubishi’s warranty is really a five-year agreement from the factory, plus further coverage for folks who get all their servicing done at official Mitsubishi dealers. The promotion ends if you go to an independent workshop – even a big chain such as Ultra Tune, Midas or MyCar.

The good news is that Mitsubishi’s service intervals are long (12 months and 15,000 kilometres) and that services are priced competitively, averaging out at $674 per year. That works out about $500 cheaper than a HiLux over 150,000 kilometres of running.

Patience could be key

Don’t need a new ute today? Hold fire for a little while. This Triton has a dated cabin and somewhat underwhelming engine that should be addressed in coming months. A new Mitsubishi Triton is just around the corner, promising to build on the new model with desirable features to bring it closer to the class-leading Ranger. Expect to find a more modern cabin, an upgraded engine and better towing credentials for the new machine.

Ordinarily, the current model should be in run-out mode, with deeply discounted prices. But that’s not the case today.