Mitsubishi raises prices for new Triton

One of Australia’s best-selling workhorse utes will raise costs by a surprising amount ahead of the arrival of an all-new model in showrooms.

Mitsubishi has defended price increases for its next-generation Triton ute.

The heavily-revised machine reaches showrooms in February with prices that have increased by $3250 to $9400 compared to the outgoing model.

Powered by an upgraded 2.4-litre engine that uses twin turbochargers to make 150kW and 470Nm, the Triton sends drive to the tyres through a six-speed automatic transmission.

The Mitsubishi Triton has a bold new look.

While there are no manual models at launch, the brand says they will become available in the future.

The same goes for work-ready cab-chassis variants that won’t be part of the initial batch of Tritons heading for Australia.

Longer and wider than before, the new Triton matches class leaders with 3.5-tonne maximum towing capacity.

A more powerful engine helps it tow more than before.

It also has the only 10-year warranty in the class, though the deal only applies to customers who have their cars serviced through Mitsubishi dealers.

The range opens with a double cab, two-wheel-drive Triton GLX priced from $40,440 plus on-road costs, $3250 more than the outgoing model.

The cheapest Triton comes with a fuel-saving stop-start system, along with an impressive array of safety gear that includes a centre airbag mounted between the driver and passenger, plus front and rear cross-traffic alerts.

The new Triton’s cabin is much more modern than its predecessor.

As with most utes, auto emergency braking, active cruise control and lane-keeping assistance is part of the deal.

A nine-inch touchscreen with Android Auto and wireless Apple CarPlay is handy to have.

Customers keen on a four-wheel-drive dual-cab need to start with the Triton GLX priced from $50,940 plus on-roads (a $6250 increase), or step up to the Triton GLX+ for $53,290 plus on-roads (up $8350) which adds 17-inch alloys, fog lamps, reverse auto braking, side steps and more.

Premium models easily switch between drive modes.

A mid-grade Triton GLS offered from $59,090 plus on-roads (up $9400) brings Mitsubishi’s clever “Super Select” system that allows you to switch between rear and four-wheel-drive modes without stopping, plus LED lighting, climate control, 18-inch wheels, more comfortable suspension and an upgraded interior. Heated leather seats add $1500 to the bill.

Range-topping Triton GSR models cost $63,840 plus on-road costs, a $6900 increase over the previous car’s $56,940 price.

Mitsubishi will add more Triton variants after its initial launch.

The GSR has black exterior styling elements to match a cabin lined in black leather with orange stitching.

A sports bar and roof rails work with a revised grille and wheel arches to lend a more purposeful look.

Mitsubishi defended price increases by outlining the car’s tech upgrades, and pointing out that new supplier contracts led to increased costs.

The new Triton reaches showrooms in February.

“This, plus increased parts and logistics costs throughout the chain, have led to a more expensive vehicle to produce and deliver,” the brand said.

“We are confident that once people drive the vehicle, they will appreciate the major step forward this vehicle presents.”