MITSUBISHI’S one-tonne ute, Triton, now has a2.8-litre intercooled turbo diesel replacing the naturally aspirated unitthat previously powered its 4x4 range.

Power is up 30%, from 71kW to 92kW at 4000 rpm, while torque is increased by 96Nm (or 49%) from 198Nm to 294Nm at a very useable 2000 rpm. Top speed has increased from 133km/h to 158km/h, while 0-80km/h now comes up nearly 30% quicker (in 9.7 seconds, down from 13.8 seconds). Passing in fourth gear from 40-60 kph is reduced from 7.8 to 5.7 seconds, and 80-100 kph is reduced from 10.1 to 5.8 seconds.

Fuel consumption has improved slightly from 9.5 litres/100km to 9.4 litres/100km.

Transmission for the turbo diesel Triton is a five-speed manual where the drive is transferred using Mitsubishi’s tried and proven Easy Select system. The new 4x4 Turbo Diesel Triton comes in four variants in three body styles: the GLX Cab Chassis, the GLX Club Cab, the GLX Double Cab and the luxurious GLS Double Cab.

Base pricing of the new diesel variants has been set at $31,490 for the GLX Cab Chassis, $36,490 for the GLX Club Cab, $37,490 for the GLX Double Cab and $44,990 for the GLS Double Cab (prices current as of April 2003 and exclude on-road costs). – Mitsubishi.