Who: The popular Japanese brand
What: The XRT Concept previews the new Triton
When: Later in 2023
Why: Because the ute is big business for the company
Mitsubishi has given us a clear glimpse of what we can expect from the incoming new-generation Triton, expected to arrive by the end of the year. On show at the Bangkok International Motor Show in Thailand, the XRT Concept is a clear pointer to what we’ll see in showrooms soon.
READ MORE: How Mitsubishi is bringing back Ralliart
The first all-new Triton in nine years, this is a crucial model for Mitsubishi to get right. It needs to continue its success as a best-seller for Mitsubishi, form the basis of the important Pajero Sport SUV spin-off and help spearhead the revival of the Ralliart performance sub-brand.
To that end the XRT Concept features the Ralliart ‘parallel line’ graphic as part of its “lava rocks” camouflage livery. Mitsubishi uses words including “fierce” and “robust” to describe the styling of the concept, which points to a more muscular and aggressive design for the production model.
Takao Kato, president and CEO of Mitsubishi Motors, said the Triton and the brand’s replacement for the ASX are the two most important models for the brand in the Asia-Pacific region in the next 18 months.
“The all-new Triton is going through final touch-ups in preparation for its release, as we have performed rigorous endurance tests around the world while also incorporating the know-how gained from rally activities,” Kato said. “With the new vehicle launches as the centrepiece, we will continue our drive toward further growth.”
As Kato mentioned, Mitsubishi has been ramping up its involvement in motor racing, competing in the 2022 Asia Cross Country Rally in a Ralliart-enhanced version of the out-going Triton. There have also been long-running rumours throughout the local industry that Mitsubishi Australia is in talks with Walkinshaw Automotive Group to produce a locally-created answer to the Ford Ranger Raptor and Nissan Navara PRO-4X Warrior.
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