Large, chunky double cab bakkies are often described as ‘looking athletic’ – now Mitsubishi is adding that as a name to a limited edition of its Triton range.
The Triton Athlete is distinguished exterior features, notably the red touches to the front bumper lower garnish, side-step and rear bumper step that are a reminder of motorsport body kits that featured prominently on legendary models such as the Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution.
A decal kit includes a hood decal, tailgate strip and side stripes featuring the number 01. Other visual upgrades are LED headlamps with black accents and matching daylight running lampsas well as its unique black 18-inch alloy wheels.
“South Africa is a bakkie country and local owners love to customise their vehicles, the Triton Athlete caters for that need by offering a bespoke package to make it stand out whether you are on or off-road,” says Jeffrey Allison, General Manager: Marketing at Mitsubishi Motors South Africa (MMSA).
Interior
Based on the Triton 4x4 Automatic, the motorsport inspired theme is continued in the interior where the leather steering wheel, parking brake and floor console feature black and red stitching. Unique leather seats and door trim have also been treated to red leather stitching.
Power comes from the same 2,4-litre DOHC MIVECdDiesel engine fitted to other models in the range and it offers t 133 kW at 3 500 r/min and 430 Nm at 2 500r/min, paired with a six-speed automatic transmission that features Intelligent Shift Control.
Capability
Off-road capability comes via Mitsubishi’s Super Select II 4WD system that transfers power to the wheels with grip instantaneously. The selectable off-road mode allowing the driver to select from Gravel, Mud/Snow or Sand modes when in 4hLc to suit surface conditions and optimise engine output, transmission settings and braking for superior traction.
“The Mitsubishi Triton Athlete offers customers a bakkie that embodies Mitsubishi’s philosophy of creating products that provide safety, comfort and quality while a number of unique features elevate the characteristic styling and athleticism, resulting in a truly unique offering,” concludes Allison.
Warranty
As with all Triton models the Triton Athlete is covered by Mitsubishi’s manufacturer’s warranty of three years or 100 000 km, a five-year/90 000 km service plan and five-year/unlimited mileage roadside assistance. Service intervals are every 10 000 km.
Colin Windell - proudly CHANGECARS
