Aggressive New GL Keeps SA’s Best Kept Bakkie Secret Below R500K
Regular readers will know full well that we’re Mitsubishi Triton fans here at Auto. It was back on our Best Bakkie podium this year, won it a few years back. Triton’s blend of capability, style, performance and perhaps most significantly, value, is unbeatable in our minds. Yes, the Tri Star brand is also rapidly growing its dealer body across the country. In fact there’s now even an outlet in our remote neck of the woods. And our only other concern was a top heavy range. But wait, that’s just changed too!
ENTER THE EVEN MORE PRACTICAL TRITON GL
Mitsubishi has just opened its fine Triton bakkie up to a far broader market. It has introduced the new Double Cab GL. Aimed at more price conscious buyers, as much, it targets fleet owners and small to medium enterprises and entrepreneurs. The more accessible new 100 kW 324 Nm GL is the first step in Mitsubishi’s plans to offer greater commercial vehicle versatility.
“Mitsubishi bakkie fans have been pushing us to expand the Triton range,” Mitsubishi Motors SA marketing boss Jeffrey Allison explained. “So we’re delighted to oblige by introducing this Triton Double Cab GL at an aggressive price point. “We have no doubt that the GL will attract lifestyle consumers as much as it will fleet owners through its accessibility, versatility and bold contemporary styling.”
The new GL packs Mitsubishi’s proven intercooled turbodiesel DOHC engine. It comes exclusively with a six-speed manual transmission driving the rear wheels through a limited-slip differential. And rides on a smart set of 245/70R16 alloy wheels. The dependable Double Cab GL boasts a most impressive 8 litres/100 km combined cycle fuel consumption. Which means that its 75-litre fuel tank will manage well over 900 kilometres on a tank. When driven smart.
GL BOASTS ALL TRITON’S ACCEPTED PLUSSES
The new GL of course benefits Triton’s bold and contemporary styling. It rides on the same rugged regular rigid ladder chassis to deliver that Best Bakkie winning robust handling and stability. Whatever the driving conditions. There’s poised and responsive double wishbone suspension with coil springs and a stabiliser bar up front. And a tough over-the-axle leaf sprung live rear axle ensures outstanding traction and a full tonne’s load-carrying capacity.
Triton’s vast 1520 mm long, 1470 mm wide and 475 mm deep load bay is reinforced for durability. Four integrated cargo hooks allow any load to be easily and securely strapped down. And it has a one-hand operated single handle tailgate. But there’s more to Triton GL than just load ability. It doesn’t skimp for much. With standard keyless entry, central locking, an immobiliser and power windows. Auto air-conditioning and radio CD touchscreen infotainment. With an optional step up to Auto and Car Play smartphone mirroring.
Durable high-grade fabric chairs boast ISOFIX child seat anchors. There are driver and front passenger airbags and a seatbelt reminder for the driver. Add ABS anti-lock braking with electric brake force distribution and Mitsubishi’ high-impact safety cabin structure. Some years ago I advised a friend to buy a Triton. He was involved in an horrendous accident driving that bakkie. And still today often reminds me that he owes his life to his Triton’s safety…
LOCKED, LOADED AND FULLY GUARANTEED
Like all Mitsubishi commercial vehicles, the Triton Double Cab GL is now covered by a comprehensive standard 3-year/100,000 km manufacturer’s warranty. And a 5-year/90,000 km service plan at 10,000 km, and 5-year/unlimited km roadside assistance, too
“The new Triton GL broadens our commercial vehicle range to a more versatile market. “It also appeals to fleet owners alongside leisure buyers,” Jeffrey Allison concluded. “It’s all part of Mitsubishi Motors’ consumer centric approach of listening to owners’ need and acting on that. “Triton GL is just the start of an extremely compelling Mitsubishi Motors product offensive to enhance our entire model range through 2022. “Watch this space!” – Michele Lupini
Mitsubishi Triton Pricing 2.4 DI-DC 4x2 Manual GL R480K 2.4 DI-DC 4x2 Manual R595K 2.4 DI-DC 4x2 Automatic R615K 2.4 DI-DC 4x4Manual R655K 2.4 DI-DC 4x4 Automatic R674K 2.4 DI-DC 4x4 Xtreme R735K
