By Outside the US you will see various other pickup trucks that are not available for this market. One of them is the Mitsubishi Triton. It is also known as L200, Strakar, or Barbarian in different countries. But, all these models are the same one produced by FCA. This company still needs a true pickup for the mid-size segment. The comeback of the Ram Dakota is a topic of rumors. It is certain that the truck, whatever name it gets, is going to be based on the 2021 Mitsubishi Triton. The latest speculations are pointing to the possibility of this nameplate to be the next US truck, but we still don’t have a confirmation by the company.
The new 2021 Mitsubishi Triton will also be available on other markets. In some Asian countries, you will find it as Ram 1200, while the European truckers also drive Fiat Fullback. These are the same vehicles, and the upcoming American version will use the same styling. On the other hand, the engine room will see some big updates, with new petrol drivetrains installed under the hood. Not only that Triton needs four-cylinder, but also a V6. But, the FCA can respond to this challenge.
Rivals
The US market will introduce a new lineup of rivals to the 2021 Mitsubishi Triton. The current model can’t compete with the likes of Chevrolet Colorado and Toyota Tacoma. Nissan Frontier is another vehicle built on the ladder frame, while Honda is offering a sportier Ridgeline. Last year we saw the comeback of the Ford Ranger. It is a familiar rival, with whom the Triton shares market in Australia. The level of popularity is still behind main rivals, including Ranger, Nissan Navara, and Toyota Hilux. But, with Ram or Dodge badge, Mitsubishi would stand a chance in the US. FCA is bringing back one truck in 2020, and the following season could launch the next model. Hopefully, that will be Triton.
2021 Mitsubishi Triton Specs
Currently, the truck is using only four-cylinder engines. It will stay so until the 2021 Mitsubishi Triton hits the US market. Nevertheless, special units will be offered there, while the non-US pickups will use the standard lineup. Most markets are offering the Triton and L200 with a 2.4-liter diesel engine. Turbocharged, a four-pot drivetrain is capable to produce 135 kW and 430 Nm of torque. Converted to US units, that is 178 horsepower and 317 pound-feet of twist. The major downside is emissions. Diesel are huge polluters and this unit makes no difference. It emits 185 g/km.
Other two engines are not in available in such big market as the 2.4-l. However, buyers in some parts of Asia can find a 2.5-liter naturally-aspirated diesel powertrain. Without turbocharger, it creates only 135 hp and 325 pound-feet of torque. Manual transmission is the only choice. A six-speed manual gearbox sends power to rear wheels. The truck needs 14 seconds to accelerate 0-60 mph. A 2.4-liter engine also offers an automatic transmission.
The last option is the petrol drivetrain. A 2.4-liter four-cylinder truck covers the smallest market of all Tritons. We are not sure if it is going to be part of the lineup for the 2021 Mitsubishi Triton. With 130 hp and 145 lb-ft of torque, it is definitely and interesting offer. Compared to diesel engines, this one is using a 5-speed manual gearbox.
2021 Mitsubishi Triton Changes and Updates
The last update of this truck happened last year. However, changes were minor and the 2021 Mitsubishi Triton could offer more modifications. The front fascia has a new look and we don’t believe designers will put too much effort into changing this area. Also, teardrop lights at the back are something eye-catching and difference-making for the Triton. The pickup can accommodate up to five persons. It is available as a pickup truck and as a chassis cab.
US Market Appearance
For the US market, Triton will need a complete overhaul. The exterior shape is the only thing the truck can keep. On the other hand, the interior needs a lot of changes. We already mentioned the engine room. It must get a bigger unit. FCA will definitely go with a 3.6-liter V6, popular Pentastar. This drivetrain will offer enough power, torque, and towing capacity so the pickup can compete in the toughest market. Of course, Mitsubishi will take advantage of the availability of some latest hi-tech features to use them on other markets too.
2021 Mitsubishi Triton Release Date, Price
The new 2021 Mitsubishi Triton will arrive next year. The company will take time to develop a truck with respectable performance and design. We still don’t know what name it can carry in the US. FCA launched a truck with Jeep badge after 30 years. The last pickup Mitsubishi had in the USA was Raider between 2005-2009. Another theory believes the Triton is going to replace Nissan Frontier.
The only clue is the Nissan-Renault-Mitsubishi alliance. However, most experts rubbish this speculation since it really sounds far-fetching.
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