Mitsubishi Motors South Africa has introduced updates to its Triton bakkie line-up for 2026, headlined by the addition of the new Triton Bi-Turbo model. The Japanese automaker has also applied cosmetic enhancements to the existing GLS variants, aiming to strengthen the brand's position in the competitive local bakkie market.
The Triton Bi-Turbo represents the latest evolution of the current-generation model, which was launched locally in 2024. According to Mitsubishi, the new derivative has been developed with specific consideration for South African driving conditions and customer preferences.
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Lerato Nonyane, General Manager: Product and Marketing at Mitsubishi Motors South Africa, described the introduction as a significant step for the local line-up. "The new additions to the Triton range have been made while retaining the product's value-for-money characteristic, with competitive pricing given the additional features and technology included as standard," Nonyane said.
The most substantial change lies beneath the bonnet, where Mitsubishi's 2,4-litre 4N16 DI-DC Bi-Turbo diesel engine has been recalibrated to deliver 150 kW at 3 500 r/min and 470 Nm of torque between 1 500 r/min and 2 750 r/min. The two-stage turbo-charger system employs a smaller turbine for low-speed response and a larger unit for sustained high-end boost, a configuration aimed at reducing lag while improving acceleration across the rev range.
The engine is mated exclusively to a six-speed automatic transmission, with power directed through Mitsubishi's Super Select II 4WD system, which includes a rear differential lock. Seven selectable drive modes allow the driver to adjust the system's behaviour to suit various terrains and conditions.
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The Super Select II system permits shifting into 4H at speeds up to 100 km/h, a feature Mitsubishi says provides added confidence when road surfaces become wet or unpredictable. The company positions this capability as particularly relevant to South African motorists who frequently encounter changing road conditions.
Suspension and handling modifications have been implemented to manage the additional power output, while electric power steering aims to provide more precise input. The Bi-Turbo retains the Triton's 3,5-tonne towing capacity and 1 000 kg payload rating.
The Bi-Turbo model receives a sportier exterior treatment, with the frontal design built around Mitsubishi's Dynamic Shield concept, featuring a three-dimensional grille, pronounced fenders and a lower protector. The lighting signature consists of three L-shaped LED daytime running lights paired with a three-light lower headlight arrangement. At the rear, T-shaped tail lights emphasise the vehicle's width.
Additional standard equipment on the Bi-Turbo includes roof rails, a styling bar, heated door mirrors and an assisted rear tailgate designed to improve load bin access.
The cabin features a leather-wrapped steering wheel and gear shift knob, synthetic leather seats with suede knit and quilting, carpet flooring and dual-zone climate control. A nine-inch touchscreen Smartphone-Link Display Audio system, seven-inch digital driver's display, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a six-speaker sound system form part of the infotainment offering.
The Bi-Turbo is equipped with Mitsubishi's Safety Sensing Suite, which includes Adaptive Cruise Control with steering switch controls, Automatic High Beam, Forward Collision Mitigation with pedestrian detection, Lane Change Assist, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, Lane Departure Warning, Blind Spot Warning, front and rear parking sensors and a Multi-Around Monitor System.
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GLS updates
The Triton GLS models have received a darker exterior appearance for 2026, with fog lamp bezels, door handles, side steps, rear gate handle and garnish finished in material black. The front bumper garnish, rear bumper, door mirrors and 18-inch alloy wheels now feature a metallic black finish, while the rear combination lamp housings have also been darkened. Pricing for the GLS variants remains unchanged.
Mitsubishi's history in cross-country rallying includes 12 Dakar Rally victories with the Pajero. More recently, Team Mitsubishi Ralliart secured overall victory at the 2025 Asia Cross Country Rally with the Triton rally bakkie. The team will field three Tritons in the 2026 edition of the event.
All Triton models are sold with a 5-year/unlimited mileage warranty, a 5-year/90 000 km service plan and 5-year/unlimited mileage roadside assistance.
"The South African bakkie customer continues to evolve, with buyers expecting more than ever before," Nonyane said. "Today's customers demand capability, bold styling, advanced technology, comfort and outstanding value. The updated Triton range, spearheaded by the new Bi-Turbo, delivers on every one of these expectations."
Nonyane added that the updates emphasise the characteristics that have contributed to the Triton's reputation, including the Super Select 4WD system and the model's durability and reliability record.
Pricing
Triton Single Cab
Triton 2.4 GLS 4x2 Manual S/C R499 990
Triton 2.4 GL 4x4 Manual S/C R559 990
Triton Double Cab
Triton 2.4 GL 4x4 Manual R639 990
Triton 2.4 GLS 4x2 Auto R679 990
Triton 2.4 GLS 4x4 Manual R739 990
Triton 2.4 GLS 4x4 Auto R759 990
Triton 2.4 Xtreme 4x2 Auto R769 990
Triton 2.4 Athlete 4x2 Auto R779 990
Triton 2.4 Xtreme 4x4 Auto R849 990
Triton 2.4 Athlete 4x4 Auto R859 990
Triton 2.4 Edition 46 4x4 Auto R889 990
Triton 2.4 Bi-Turbo 4x4 Auto R959 990
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