Following its global debut last year, one of the first things Mitsubishi did with the 2024 Mitsubishi Triton wasn’t to wheel it off to glamorous car shows or exclusive viewings with the press. Instead, they prepped it for battle—fielding three units at the Asian Cross Country Rally (AXCR) to take on one of the most unforgiving endurance races on the planet.
Even before the paint was dry, these Tritons were navigating some of the world’s toughest conditions over gravel, mud, and sand, flying through jumps and splashing through rivers.
From the get-go, it’s evident Mitsubishi didn’t just set out to build a pickup truck. They wanted a championship contender. So, here’s why the Mitsubishi Triton isn’t just another pickup truck—it’s a detuned rally truck with plush seats.
Why did the 2024 Triton make its debut in the AXCR?
There’s an old saying in motorsports: “Race on Sunday, sell on Monday.” What better way to prove the Triton’s grit than by unleashing it in one of the toughest endurance races, the AXCR? Here, the Triton doesn’t just face off against rough terrain but squares up to its closest rivals as well.
But the story goes deeper. Under the AXCR’s FIA T1 regulations, only mildly modified production trucks are allowed—so to be quick, you have a great platform to start with.
Mitsubishi’s rally-ready Triton got upgrades like a roll cage, bumper guard, carbon fibre parts, rally-tuned suspension, lightweight aluminium wheels, and front and rear LSDs—everything else is factory.
In other words, the Triton had to prove its strength with only minor modifications—and in its maiden AXCR race, it placed third, with another entrant finishing in fifth. No small feat. The message is simple: if the 2024 Triton can handle one of the planet’s most gruelling rallies, it can handle whatever you throw at it.
RALLIART DNA born from motorsports
The AXCR debut wasn’t just a publicity stunt. Mitsubishi’s choice to race the Triton stemmed from its RALLIART DNA, which has roots in motorsport greatness. The RALLIART division has been responsible for some of Mitsubishi’s most iconic cars on dirt—think the Colt, Starion, Pajero, and the legendary Lancer Evolution.
In addition, testing vehicles in punishing environments like the AXCR offers priceless data, revealing what works and what doesn’t. Each rally is an opportunity for Mitsubishi engineers to study and improve, with lessons and technologies that ultimately trickle down to the production models. With this DNA, the Triton isn’t just engineered to drive; it’s engineered to compete.
Motorsports-tuned suspension that delivers agility and comfort
But what exactly has the 2024 Triton gained from this motorsports lineage? According to Hiroshi Masuoka, director of the MITSUBISHI RALLIART team, the biggest strengths of the 2024 Triton are its durability and handling.
Using its learnings from previous years, the 2024 Triton gained a lengthened front suspension stroke and higher-mounted suspension points, allowing for greater stability and control. The rear employs a lighter leaf spring paired with thickened shock absorbers.
To top it off, Mitsubishi reinforced the ladder frame, increasing cross-sectional strength by 65%, with bending rigidity and torsional rigidity also improved.
These upgrades don’t just boost the Triton’s rally performance—they make it smoother and more stable on everyday roads, bridging the gap between pickup practicality and SUV comfort.
AYC Technology from the Lancer Evolution
Of course, it’s not enough just to handle rough terrain—the 2024 Triton needed to turn with precision, too.
Here, Mitsubishi’s engineers integrated the Active Yaw Control (AYC) from the legendary Lancer Evolution. Adapted specifically for the 2024 Triton, AYC uses a brake-based electronic differential system to manage left-right weight transfer. It individually brakes the inside front wheel through corners, keeping the vehicle stable and level.
Whether you’re navigating sharp turns on a gravel road or steering through urban streets, AYC enhances the Triton’s composure, giving you confidence and control.
4N16 Hyper Drive engine: Power with poise
At the heart of the Triton is the all-new 4N16 Hyper Drive engine—a 2.4-litre 4-cylinder MIVEC turbodiesel that delivers an impressive 204 PS and 470 Nm of torque. Equipped with a two-stage turbocharger, this engine provides powerful response and impressive fuel efficiency without compromise.
In the AXCR, regulations require that the engine remains untouched, meaning it has to be rugged enough to endure harsh punishment and extreme temperatures. This durability ensures that whether you’re hauling heavy loads or cruising down the open road, the 4N16 Hyper Drive engine delivers a smooth, reliable, and powerful driving experience.
Conclusion
With its sharp, bold design, rally-tested performance, and plush comfort, the 2024 Mitsubishi Triton isn’t just another pickup truck—it’s a detuned rally truck, adapted for the real world.
From its sturdy, high-rigidity frame to its sport-tuned suspension and sophisticated AYC system, every detail reflects Mitsubishi’s dedication to dependability and motorsports-proven engineering.
But don’t just take our word for it. Visit the Mitsubishi Motors Malaysia website to learn more, or experience the 2024 Triton’s rally spirit firsthand by booking a test drive at a dealer near you.
Also read: A tech fest: Top 5 must-know features before you test drive the 2024 Mitsubishi Triton
