Mitsubishi Triton GSR review finds it remains top value proposition

With an updated model on the horizon, Mitsubishi’s Triton ute still presents as a value proposition.

Mitsubishi's Triton GSR.

Among the telltale signs of a new model approaching are special editions.

Relaunched with tougher looks and a suite of improved safety kit in 2019, a new Triton is due late this year or early 2024 with revised underpinnings and an upgraded diesel engine.

The Triton has been a mainstay for Mitsubishi. Last year it was the biggest selling vehicle to wear the triple-diamond badge, and trailed only the Toyota HiLux and Ford Ranger in the national 4x4 realm.

Ahead of its replacement a Sport Edition was launched recently but as it was released in limited numbers availability is scarce, so our family took the GSR for a spin.

Mitsubishi's GSR Triton is about $60,000 drive-away.

WHAT WERE YOUR FIRST IMPRESSIONS?

KEL: Downright fancy. Leather trim in a dual-cab ute feels like walking down a dingy alley only to be surprised by funky modern cafes and homeware shops.

GRANT: The GSR variant has the option of a tan orange interior that costs an extra $1000. It’s flashy and feels plush.

KEL: I remember a dual-cab my father used to have for work 30-odd years ago. That was horrible and he constantly had cement bags in the tray to improve the ride.

GRANT: Things are dramatically different nowadays with so many families using dual-cabs as their primary vehicles. Young people too are gravitating toward four-wheel drives completely kitted out with lift kits, snorkels, awnings and side-mounted traction boards.

KEL: Some of the souped-up utes look pretty cool. Our test Triton was nice without being over the top.

GRANT: Base model GLX four-wheel drive Tritons start from less than $50k drive-away, but the GSR costs about $10,000 more, or $65,740 drive-away with a hard tonneau cover.

Mitsubishi's GSR Triton with the optional tan orange interior.

WHAT DID YOU LIKE?

KEL: Tan and black leather trim across the seats, doors and console makes a massive difference and really lifts the appeal.

GRANT: There is also orange stitching on the steering wheel, gear shifter and park brake. Other good inclusions were Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, smart key with push button start and the carpet floors throughout – lower models have vinyl.

KEL: Heated front seats were also great, combined with the easy access to central cup holders for my coffee and the smartphone mirroring apps that tick my must-have boxes.

GRANT: Price is another big like for me. Taking middle ground between the top-end and the likes of the Great Wall Motor Ute and LDV T60, the Triton is a solid value proposition.

KEL: Two USB ports in the back were a good inclusion.

GRANT: There is also a rear air circulation feature that is roof mounted.

WHAT DID YOU LOATHE?

KEL: The colour palette looks a little drab.

GRANT: Remember it’s still a ute. Colour options are orange, grey or black, while the white diamond is $200 extra. Slick upgrades come via the optional extras.

KEL: Touchscreen size is a bit underwhelming and the Mitsubishi infotainment system looks basic.

GRANT: I’d expect an upgrade in the new model as a seven-inch screen is used across the range. There are only four tie-down points in the tray, those who carry regularly would be well advised to explore aftermarket options.

KEL: With the 10-year warranty requiring dealer servicing, how is the cost?

GRANT: On average most people own a vehicle for about five years and the capped price servicing is less than $3000 over that time frame. For 10 services it’s $6740 … unfortunately roadside assist only runs for one year.

Kel and Grant Edwards.

HOW WAS THE DRIVE?

KEL: Getting around was easy and I found the engine responsive and strong.

GRANT: The GSR does have a decent ride despite having leaf spring rear end to cater for loads in the tray, but it is a little softer compared to the GLX models, which have a heavy duty set-up.

KEL: It could still be a little bouncy although I expect that from a ute. Getting away from a standing start it was reasonable.

GRANT: The 2.4-litre turbo diesel is tried and tested and we managed average fuel consumption of 7.1L/100km – which is well under the official average from Mitsubishi. Towing capacity is 3100kg, 400kg less than the industry benchmark.

Mitsubishi's GSR Triton with the optional tan orange interior.

WOULD YOU BUY ONE?

KEL: I liked the Triton as an all-rounder, especially with the upgraded leather trim, which makes it feel more up-market than being “just a ute”.

GRANT: When asked about utes, my advice is often the Ford Ranger for comfort, the Isuzu D-Max for towing, Toyota HiLux for reliability and less depreciation, and the Triton for value. I’d go without the hard roll-up tonneau pack to save coin.