2021 Mitsubishi Triton MT Premium Review

In the Southeast Asian pickup truck market, practicality and cost-effectiveness have always been the core criteria for consumers when choosing a vehicle. The 2021 Mitsubishi Triton MT Premium, positioned as a mid-to-high-end 4x4 model under the brand, aims to strike a balance between family use and light off-road scenarios with its 2.4T diesel engine, manual 4WD configuration, and extensive basic functionality. The main purpose of this test drive is to verify whether it meets the needs of Malaysian users for a pickup truck capable of "multi-purpose use" in daily commuting, cargo transport, and occasional unpaved road driving.

In terms of exterior design, the 2021 Triton MT Premium continues the family's rugged style. The large chrome-plated front grille paired with the brand logo offers high recognition; the halogen headlights on both sides are complemented by LED daytime running lights, providing clear visibility when lit up and meeting daily usage requirements. The side body has straight lines, with a length of 5305mm and a width of 1815mm, ensuring sufficient interior space and cargo bed capacity. The 17-inch alloy wheels paired with 245/65 R17 tires balance stability in on-road driving with passability for light off-road conditions. The rear design is relatively simple, with vertical LED taillights echoed by chrome trim on the rear bumper. The cargo bed is equipped with a standard roll bar, maintaining the practicality of a pickup while adding a touch of refinement compared to entry-level models.

Stepping inside, the interior layout prioritizes practicality. The center console is made of dark hard plastics paired with silver trims. While it doesn't offer the soft-touch materials found in luxury vehicles, the materials are solid, and the craftsmanship at the joints is relatively precise. The 6.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system atop the center console supports basic multimedia playback and Bluetooth connectivity. Its operational logic is easy to understand, and the response speed is moderate. Below are physical buttons with a clear layout. The air conditioning control area uses a single-zone manual adjustment system, with dials and buttons that have a nice tactile resistance, making them easy to operate by touch even while driving. In terms of features, the keyless entry and ignition functions are very convenient for daily use. There are air vents for both the front and rear rows, and the rear row comes with a foldable armrest, enhancing seating comfort. The instrument cluster is designed with high contrast, providing clear displays of information like RPM and speed. The six-speaker audio system delivers satisfactory sound quality for daily needs.

Spaciousness is one of the key advantages of a pickup truck, and the 3000mm wheelbase provides ample room for passengers in both the front and rear rows. The front seats support manual adjustments and offer good support for the back and cushion, ensuring comfort during long drives. When the rear row accommodates three adults, there’s still about a fist's width of legroom remaining, and the headroom feels airy due to the vehicle's height advantage. In terms of storage, the door panels can hold two bottles of mineral water, the storage slot below the center console can fit a phone and wallet, and there’s hidden storage space under the rear seats. While the exact dimensions of the cargo bed aren’t specified, it’s entirely capable of transporting furniture, tools, and other daily items. The spare tire matches the specifications of the main tires, providing extra assurance for long-distance journeys.

Regarding performance, the 2.4T turbocharged diesel engine delivers a maximum power output of 181PS, with maximum torque kicking in at 2500rpm. It is paired with a 6-speed manual transmission, providing direct and linear power delivery. The clutch engagement point is distinct during starts, making it easy for beginners to handle; the torque at low RPMs is adequate, ensuring that starting feels effortless even when fully loaded. During acceleration, the engine response becomes significantly quicker after 2000rpm. When overtaking, dropping one gear provides sufficient thrust. At high speeds, the engine's RPM is maintained around 2500rpm, with noise levels well controlled. The 4WD system allows switching between 2H (High Range 2WD), 4H (High Range 4WD), and 4L (Low Range 4WD). Engaging 4H ensures sufficient traction on muddy roads or light off-road surfaces, while 4L amplifies torque, making it suitable for more challenging terrains.

In terms of handling, the steering wheel feels relatively heavy, but it is quite precise. During cornering, the body roll is at a normal level for a pickup truck and does not cause noticeable wobbling. The combination of front MacPherson independent suspension and rear leaf spring non-independent suspension performs well on the road, filtering out small bumps effectively. However, rear-seat vibration becomes more noticeable when driving over speed bumps or large potholes. The braking system features front and rear ventilated discs, with evenly distributed braking force, and the braking distance is at an average level among vehicles in its class. In terms of fuel consumption, the average fuel consumption on mixed roads is approximately 8-9 liters per 100 kilometers, which is quite fuel-efficient for a 2.4T four-wheel-drive pickup.

For comfort, the seat padding is relatively thick, offering decent support, though the wrap-around feel is average. Noise control inside the cabin is well-managed, with wind and tire noise at an acceptable level during highway speeds. Engine noise is noticeable at high RPMs but does not interfere with normal conversations. The energy recovery system engages slightly only when releasing the accelerator and does not affect driving habits; the overall driving experience is similar to that of a gasoline vehicle. In terms of safety features, the vehicle comes standard with ABS, electronic stability control, and front side airbags. Although there are only two airbags, the basic safety features are present.

Overall, the 2021 Mitsubishi Triton MT Premium is a well-rounded pickup truck with powerful performance, ample space, and practical features. Its four-wheel-drive system is capable of handling light off-road conditions, and its cost-effectiveness stands out among similar vehicles. Compared to the Toyota Hilux, it offers a more affordable price and richer features; compared to the Ford Ranger, its diesel engine has lower fuel consumption, making it more suitable for daily use. This vehicle is ideal for consumers who need a truck that can handle both cargo and family use while also occasionally going off-road, such as small business owners or families who enjoy outdoor adventures. If you are looking for a practical, reliable, and reasonably priced four-wheel-drive pickup, the 2021 Mitsubishi Triton MT Premium is worth considering.