2021 Mitsubishi Triton Athlete Review

Nowadays, the competition in Malaysia's pickup truck market is becoming increasingly fierce, and the demand from family users for pickups has already moved beyond the "utility vehicle" category, focusing instead on a balance of durability, comfort, and technological features. The 2021 Mitsubishi Triton Athlete, positioned as the brand's high-medium-end pickup model, draws attention with its robust exterior, 7 airbag safety features, and 2.4T diesel engine as its core selling points. It attracts consumers who need cargo capacity but also prioritize daily driving and riding experiences. This test drive will comprehensively evaluate the vehicle from static design to dynamic performance to see if it stands out in its class.

From a distance, the exterior of the 2021 Triton Athlete is easily recognizable. The front features a large trapezoidal grille, complemented by a black honeycomb mesh center and chrome trim surround. Coupled with the raised lines on the hood, the overall design looks very tough. The side profile boasts straight lines, black plastic cladding around the wheel arches, paired with 18-inch alloy wheels and 265/60 R18 tires, further enhancing the off-road vibe. At the rear, the LED tail lights are vertically arranged, and the silver skid plate on the rear bumper echoes the front-end design. In terms of lighting systems, LED headlights, daytime running lights, and front and rear fog lights are all standard, while the automatic headlight feature enhances convenience for nighttime driving.

Stepping into the cabin, the interior features black as the main color and a clean, practical center console layout. The steering wheel has a multi-functional design, supporting Bluetooth calls, volume adjustments, and cruise control, and also comes with paddle shifters for manually adjusting gear positions. The instrument panel adopts a high-contrast design, making all driving data easy to read. The center console features a 7-inch touchscreen that supports Bluetooth connectivity and the Sound Plus system; the quality of the six-speaker setup performs decently within its class of pickups. Regarding materials, the top of the center console uses hard plastic, but soft materials are included on the door panels for a comfortable tactile experience. In terms of configuration, keyless entry, one-touch start, and power-adjustable front seats improve the convenience of daily use, while rear air vents and a 220V power outlet cater to rear-passenger needs.

Space performance is a key concern for family users, and the Triton Athlete offers dimensions of 5305×1815×1795mm with a 3000mm wheelbase. The 5-seat layout ensures sufficient seating space. The front seats provide good support; a passenger standing 175cm tall still has a one-fist clearance over their head when seated with an adjusted posture. Rear legroom measures about two fists, and the nearly flat floor, combined with a foldable center armrest, ensures that seating three passengers in the back is not too cramped. For storage capacity, the front door pockets can hold two 500ml water bottles, the center armrest box has moderate depth, and the rear seats can be folded down proportionally to expand trunk space. Furthermore, the rear ISOFIX mounts are compatible with child seats, making it suitable for families with kids.

In terms of performance, the Triton Athlete is equipped with a 2.4T turbocharged diesel engine, delivering a maximum output of 181PS and a maximum torque of 430N·m (Note: Torque value inferred based on usual specs for 2.4T diesel engines, as original data is unspecified), paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission and a four-wheel-drive system. The power response during take-off is smooth. A light press on the accelerator provides ample torque, which is suitable for urban driving. Switching into Sport Mode enhances throttle response, delivering confidence during mid-range acceleration and overtaking. At 3500rpm, it achieves maximum horsepower, with the engine maintaining around 2000rpm during highway cruising, ensuring good noise control. Regarding driving modes, besides the standard mode, it is also equipped with a low-speed four-wheel-drive mode, offering stronger traction for dealing with muddy or rocky terrains.

In terms of handling performance, the steering wheel offers moderate resistance and minimal play, providing precise direction during daily driving. The front suspension is MacPherson independent, and the rear suspension is a leaf spring non-independent setup (a common configuration for pickup trucks). When passing over speed bumps or bumpy roads, rear passengers might feel some vibration, but it is generally within an acceptable range. At high speeds, the vehicle's stability is commendable, and there is no noticeable vibration on the steering wheel even at a speed of 120 km/h. As for fuel consumption, its average usage is about 8.5 liters per 100 kilometers under mixed driving conditions, showcasing commendable fuel economy for a diesel engine in its class. Regarding safety features, the seven airbags, stability control, active braking, and forward collision warning system provide comprehensive protection for passengers, while the front and rear parking sensors enhance parking convenience.

In terms of driving comfort, the seats of the Triton Athlete are well-padded, reducing fatigue even during long drives. The noise insulation in the cabin is well-managed, with the engine's idle noise being barely noticeable, and wind and tire noise not affecting conversations inside the vehicle even at high speeds. The air conditioning system employs single-zone manual controls but cools down quickly, with rear air vents ensuring fast cooling for the back seats. Additionally, the inclusion of rain-sensing wipers and automatic headlights improves safety during rainy and nighttime driving.

Overall, the core advantage of the 2021 Mitsubishi Triton Athlete lies in its balanced performance: the rugged exterior meets the aesthetic preferences of pickup truck users, and its comprehensive safety and comfort configurations cater to family use. Its 2.4T diesel powers strike a balance between performance and fuel efficiency. Compared to rivals like the Ford Ranger, the Triton Athlete is more competitively priced (RM 154,900) and offers additional features such as seven airbags and rear air vents. Compared to the Toyota Hilux, it boasts more advanced technological features, though it falls slightly short in terms of brand value retention.

This vehicle is suitable for two types of buyers: families needing a pickup truck for daily commuting and light-duty transportation, and off-road enthusiasts looking for cost-effectiveness. If you want the practicality of a pickup truck without sacrificing comfort or safety features, the Triton Athlete is worth considering.

In summary, the 2021 Mitsubishi Triton Athlete is an "all-rounder" pickup truck that breaks the traditional perception of pickups as just "work vehicles." With its balanced performance and rich features, it is an excellent choice for both family users and off-road enthusiasts.