Mitsubishi Triton 2018 Towing Review

It has been some time since we last visited the Mitsubishi Triton back in 2016 when the GLS was tested and produced favourable results.

The Triton 4WD Double Cab model has a strengthened chassis, Trailer Stability Assist and Super Select 4WD (GLS and VRX 4WD only) - 3 key features that keep it in the game. The version we tested was the Black Edition, which sports a number of black accents across the car.

It can tow an impressive 3.5 tonne, however to do this Mitsubishi stipulate a three-axle braked trailer, this is to limit the downward force on the towbar (which shouldn’t exceed 4% of the vertical load). Realistically, not many three axle trailers are around so we opted to tow 1500kg with a double axle trailer.

The road conditions on the day we tested the Triton were fine with some moderate wind and the vehicle wasn’t affected much by the cross winds that we encountered.

The Super Select II 4WD system wasn't necessary during testing but it was reassuring to know it was there if necessary. This 4WD system is available on GLS, GLSB and VRX 4WD models, giving you better grip and safety in any terrain or weather. You can also tow while in 4WD on the road at highway speeds.

At all speeds, the suspension felt like a good balance between comfort and firmness.

On our hill test, we accelerated from 50km/h to 80 km/h in 3rd gear reaching 3000rpm. This wasn't especially quick at around 12 seconds, but once we were travelling at 90km/h the rpm fell on the ascent to only 2100rpm, which was about 300rpm less than the prior test with the lighter (850kg) 485 boat.

The Triton GLSB uses Aisin’s five-speed automatic gearbox which seemed a little bit underwhelming when compared to its competition which feature up to nine gears. Nonetheless, the Triton performed fine and it matched the engines power output well but it would have been nice to see the 8-speed automatic that the Pajero possesses as an option. 

The high floor, driving position and comfy seats made it an easy to drive the ute. The visibility is also assisted with its generous mirrors - this all helped when hooking up a trailer or zipping into a tight spot, which is no sweat with the 11.8 meter turning circle.

If you’re after a ute that's as comfortable on-road as it is off-road with a decent towing weight of 3100kg, this could be the ute for you.

The Triton GLSB is a well-built ute and is good value for money. It's comfortable and a good option if you're in the market for a new towing vehicle.

The newer 2019 model is on the horizon, and we do hope there will be more drivetrain options which would make the Triton an even more enticing choice.

Thanks to SeaCraft Miller Moyes for the test boat & trailer.