This week saw the launch, or should we say the re-launch of the current generation Isuzu here in South Africa alongside an aggressively priced Triton from Mitsubishi, specifically aimed at fleet owners.
Mighty Mitsubishi
From Mitsubishi we saw the introduction of the new GL range for the Triton, based on the current generation Triton (sans some of the luxury extras in the range). “Fans of the Mitsubishi brand have shown overwhelming interest in a more robust commercial vehicle range and – always putting our customer first – we introduced the Triton Double Cab GL,” explains the brand’s head of marketing, Jeffrey Allison.
“This is the first step in our intention to offer greater versatility in the commercial vehicle space and will draw more customers into the Mitsubishi fold. This aggressive price point on our double cab GL, starting at under R500k for the 4×2, will undoubtedly also attract lifestyle consumers due to its accessibility, versatility and bold contemporary styling.”
The Triton Double Cab GL features Mitsubishi’s proven DOHC intercooled turbodiesel engine, with 100kW of power and 324Nm of peak torque on tap, exclusively available as a 4×2 with a six-speed manual transmission. Befitting its status as a capable and dependable bakkie, the bakkie features a limited-slip differential, a 75-litre fuel tank and 245/70 R16 alloy wheels. Seats are covered in high-grade durable fabric. Impressive fuel consumption figures of 8.0 litres/100 km in a combined cycle adds further appeal for fleet owners.
Underneath the Triton’s bold contemporary styling is a rigid ladder chassis, ensuring robust handling and stability no matter what the condition of the road surface. Up front, the double wishbones with coil springs and stabiliser bar deliver poise and responsiveness, while the rugged above-the-axle leaf spring rear suspension provides outstanding traction and load-carrying capacity of up to 1-ton.
All double cab Triton derivatives feature a spacious load bed measuring 1 520mm in length, 1470 mm in width and 475 mm in depth, reinforced for durability. The single handle on the tailgate enables one-handed operation, while four integrated cargo hooks mean that loads can be secured safely and with ease.
As with all other Triton models, the safety package of the GL includes an anti-lock braking system (ABS) with electric brakeforce distribution (EBD), as well as ISOFIX child seat anchors. Occupant safety is further enhanced by a high-impact safety cabin structure, airbags for the driver and front passenger and a seatbelt reminder for the driver. Keyless entry, central locking, an immobiliser and electric windows are standard, along with automatic air-conditioning and a touchscreen radio/CD player, whilst the touchscreen system with Android Auto and Apple Car Play is available as an optional extra.
Some of the Triton’s most striking exterior features include Mitsubishi’s “Dynamic Shield” front design, which incorporates a high hood line and beefy-looking front view. At the same time sculpted body curves with contrasting sharp lines, extended wheel flares and bright accents exude strength.
The current generation of the Triton was introduced locally in 2019, and since then gained a substantial following in its segment and with a bakkie-building pedigree that stretches well over 40 years.
Model line-up & Pricing
- Triton 2.4L DI-DC M/T GL 4×2 R479 995
- Triton 2.4L DI-DC M/T 4×2 R594 995
- Triton 2.4L DI-DC A/T 4×2 R614 995
- Triton 2.4L DI-DC M/T 4×4 R654 995
- Triton 2.4L DI-DC A/T 4×4 R674 995
- Triton 2.4L DI-DC A/T 4×4 Xtreme R734 995
*Sweetening the pot even further for customers in the commercial vehicle space is the extension of MMSA’s aftersales offer. The entire commercial vehicle line-up – including the Triton Double Cab GL – is now covered by a 3-year/100 000km manufacturer’s warranty as standard, along with a 5-year/90 000km service plan. 5-year/unlimited kilometre roadside assistance is also included and service intervals are set at every 10 000km.
Impressive Isuzu
Isuzu South Africa went a slightly different route and decided to focus on a similar business model we saw from Nissan when they introduced the first Navara but also decided to stick whit the old stalwart in the Nissan Hardbody. This week saw the first seventh generation Isuzu roll of the Isuzu plant in Gqeberha as Isuzu announced a dual product strategy in the Isuzu D-MAX range with a limited number of models of the sixth generation guise. Both products will be assembled at the Gqeberha plant along with Isuzu Trucks.
With the seventh generation about to be launched on our shores the aim of keeping the sixth generation alive is focused on boosting their fleet business. The sixth generation D-MAX, which is now known as GEN 6, will be offered with five competitively priced models in South Africa, four models in right-hand drive export markets, and three models in left-hand drive markets. Unfortunately, the South African market won’t have a 4×4 option available in the GEN 6 range.
“Our customers rely on D-MAX GEN 6’s long-standing reputation of reliability, durability, and capability backed by a vehicle with a 50-year history in this market. The D-MAX is engineered for the best performance in our unique local conditions, and these GEN 6 models remain a valuable proposition for fleet operators who place great importance on running costs and minimum down time,” said Dominic Rimmer, Senior Vice President: Technical Operations
GEN 6 continues with two of Isuzu’s current diesel engines, namely the 2.5 litre LEED and 2.5 litre high output engines. The 2.5 LEED engine delivers 58 kW at 3900 rpm, and 176 Nm at 1800 rpm. Fuel consumption is 7.9 litres per 100 km with CO2 emissions of 208 g/km.
The high output HO engine offers increased performance with power rated at 100kW at 3400rpm, and 320Nm of torque from 1800 to 2800rpm. Fuel consumption is indicated at 7.6 litres/100km and 8.1 litres/100km for the 5-speed auto.
Model line-up & Pricing
- D-MAX 250C SINGLE CAB STANDARD GEN 6 R 328,400.00
- D-MAX 250C SINGLE CAB FLEETSIDE GEN 6 R 354,900.00
- D-MAX 250 HO SINGLE CAB (Safety) GEN 6 R 380,500.00
- D-MAX 250 HO DOUBLE CAB HI-RIDE GEN 6 R 479,900.00
- D-MAX 250 HO DOUBLE CAB HI-RIDE GEN 6 A/T R 500,000.00
* Isuzu is committed to providing its customers with exceptional ownership peace of mind. Accordingly, all Isuzu D-MAX bakkies come standard with Isuzu Complete Care, comprising a 5-year/120 000km bumper-to-bumper warranty and Isuzu Roadside Assistance. A 5-year/unlimited kilometre anti-corrosion warranty and a 5-year/90 000km Service Plan is also standard and extended cover can be purchased through Isuzu Mobility. Service intervals are every 15 000km/12 months.
