Introduction
Once upon a time, the Mitsubishi Triton was like your dependable childhood friend — reliable, helpful, and totally forgettable. However, fast forward to 2025, and it’s had a glow-up. Now it arrives wearing Yamabuki Orange paint, with muscles bulging and a face like it’s here to settle old scores. In short, the Triton Athlete has decided it wants to be noticed.
Performance & Engine
Let’s start with the engine, because that’s where things get interesting. The new 2.4-litre bi-turbo diesel delivers 204 PS and a chunky 470 Nm of torque. Not only does this give it more grunt than a Hilux Rogue, but it also gets dangerously close to the Ranger Wildtrak — and that’s saying something.
Furthermore, the twin-turbo setup is surprisingly clever. At low RPMs, the small turbo gives you instant response, meaning you’re not left begging for power while crawling in Penang traffic. Then, as you step on it, the second turbo kicks in, giving you the extra punch to blast past a Perodua Viva that’s hogging the fast lane. It’s quick, responsive, and actually enjoyable to drive — which isn’t something you often say about a pickup truck.
Driving & Off-Road Capability
As soon as you leave the highway and head into kampung roads or plantation trails, this Triton starts to shine. The Super Select 4WD-II system is a real game-changer. Crucially, it lets you use full-time 4WD even on dry roads, offering better grip in the rain and more stability on corners.
Additionally, there are seven selectable drive modes, including Gravel Mode — a Mitsubishi exclusive — which basically tells the truck to throw caution to the wind and go for maximum traction and speed. Coupled with Active Yaw Control, Hill Descent Control, and the excellent traction control system, the Triton handles rough terrain with surprising grace.
Yes, it’s still a pickup, but it behaves like something smarter. Whether you’re attacking the trails of Janda Baik or just trying to survive a Klang flash flood, this truck has your back.
Ride & Comfort
Now here’s where things start to split hairs. Thanks to a brand-new chassis, the Triton is undoubtedly smoother than before. On highways, it feels more refined and less like you’re riding in a toolbox full of spanners.
However, let’s not pretend it’s a limousine. When the bed is empty — which, let’s face it, is most of the time for city folks — the leaf-spring rear still hops over bumps like a startled goat. It’s better than the D-Max, on par with the Hilux, but not as composed as the Ranger Wildtrak.
Still, the steering is nicely weighted, and maneuvering around tight streets or parking at Sunway Pyramid doesn’t feel like a wrestling match.
Utility & Practicality
Of course, a pickup should be able to work. And this one does. For starters, the towing capacity is 3,500 kg. That’s more than enough for your boat, trailer, or a jet ski or two. Plus, Trailer Stability Assist helps keep things steady when you’re towing through Karak at 110 km/h.
Moreover, the enlarged cargo bed means you can throw in everything from bicycles to sacks of rice without feeling cramped. Whether it’s weekend adventures or your sideline business hauling stuff for Shopee sellers, the Triton Athlete is ready.
Interior & Technology
Step inside and it’s clear Mitsubishi made an effort. The leatherette and suede knit seats are genuinely comfortable, offering a premium feel without trying too hard. Furthermore, the dashboard design is clean, and the materials — while not luxurious — are well put together.
There’s also a touchscreen infotainment system that supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, which is essential nowadays. Add to that a wireless charging dock and practical storage compartments, and you’ve got an interior that finally feels like it belongs in this decade.
However, not everything is perfect. Some plastic bits feel a bit cheap, and the digital instrument cluster is more functional than fancy. If you’ve been inside a Ranger Wildtrak, you’ll notice the Triton is still a step behind in overall interior polish.
Safety Features
Thankfully, Mitsubishi didn’t skimp on safety. It comes loaded with seven airbags, Forward Collision Mitigation that detects both cars and pedestrians, and Lane Departure Warning that, frankly, can be overly dramatic at times.
In addition, you get Adaptive Cruise Control, Blind Spot Warning with Lane Change Assist, and Rear Cross Traffic Alert — all of which work as advertised. Automatic high beams are also included, although they occasionally blind oncoming traffic before figuring it out. Still, for a pickup at this price, it’s impressively well-specced.
Design & Style
Let’s not avoid the obvious: the Triton finally looks good. That bold face, widened fenders, and aggressive lines give it genuine road presence. It no longer looks like a working truck from the early 2000s.
Whether you pick Yamabuki Orange, Jet Black Mica, or White Diamond, the Triton Athlete looks like it belongs next to SUVs and lifestyle trucks at the TTDI Starbucks. No more hiding behind the Hilux.
Price & Value
At RM159,800, it’s a compelling deal. Not only is it cheaper than a Ranger Wildtrak, but it also offers more features than the Hilux Rogue. Considering its off-road abilities, safety features, and improved comfort, it’s hard to ignore how much value you’re getting.
Final Verdict
In the end, the 2025 Mitsubishi Triton Athlete is far from perfect. The ride still has its bounce, some cabin materials feel cheap, and the tech isn’t class-leading. But despite those flaws, it’s arguably the best Triton ever made.
More importantly, it finally gives Malaysians a real alternative to the Hilux and Ranger without feeling like a compromise. It’s powerful, smart, better-looking, and ready for both work and weekend.
Yes, it still gets a little too excited over bumps. And no, it won’t win a luxury contest. But if you want a truck that pulls hard, looks bold, and costs less than the usual suspects — this might just be your next best decision.
