Overview
MITSUBISHI Motors Australia Limited has launched its Premcar-enhanced Triton Raider (from $74,990 plus on-road costs) as a credible rival to the likes of the Ford Ranger Tremor (from $75,090 + ORC), Isuzu D-Max Blade (from $78,900 + ORC), Mazda BT-50 Thunder (from $78,400 + ORC) and closely related Nissan Navara Pro-4X (from $68,418 + ORC).
The Triton GSR-based Raider dual-cab features a bespoke suspension arrangement, unique wheel and tyre bundle, and Warm Dark Grey aesthetic flourishes, and a number of factory-sourced accessories that include a roll-over bar and blackened side steps with red highlights.
Complementing the Monroe-sourced suspension components and knobbly Bridgestone AT002 tyres over 18 x 9-inch ROH alloy wheels in Brushed Bronze are ‘Sandstorm’ side decals, Raider badging inside and out, a heavy-duty frontal bash plate and embroidered front head restraints.
MMAL says the Triton Raider was designed, developed, and tested to bring confidence to every drive, and on any surface. A unique spring and damper tune, increased ride height (+25mm), and wider track (+15mm) are highlights of the package, running alongside carryover mechanicals that include Mitsubishi’s 4N16-series twin-turbocharged 2.4-litre four-cylinder diesel that develops 150kW/470Nm.
The variant is offered only with a six-speed automatic transmission, joining Mitsubishi’s renowned Super Select II four-wheel drive system with various terrain modes, both centre- and rear locking differentials, and a dual-range transfer case.
Mitsubishi offers the Triton Raider with the same levels of equipment as found in the GSR donor, and in a choice of four paint colours – Black Mica, Blade Silver, Graphite Grey, and White Diamond.
The Japanese importer’s 10-year/200,000km warranty applies across the Triton Raider and its upgrades, as does 10 year’s roadside assistance and capped-price servicing.
Driving Impressions
As we’ve spent considerable time in Triton variants previously (including the GSR on which the Raider is based), we’ll spare you a full run down on what the vehicle offers in terms of cabin comfort and amenity, and instead centre on what the changes to the Raider have done to enhance the way it drives.
Taller front coils, unique dampers, more progressive bump stops and specially selected tyres are what helps the Raider stand tall above the GSR, and it is these enhancements that have given the variant a character that is all its own – and one we think works exceptionally well in the conditions in which it is designed to operate.
Of course, that means a slight trade-off in around-town running where the (admittedly unladen) Triton Raider can feel a little tense. Given the vehicle can still haul and tow as much as its derivative is obviously worth keeping in mind – and we’ll be keen to note just how well the Raider performs with some weight over the rear axle when next we get the chance.
Until then, there are several tangible improvements we have picked above the donor car. For one, the steering is more direct, the change in wheel offset and alignment returning an acuate (and indeed accurate) sense of response. The steering is less affected by surface imperfections and potholes, helping the Raider maintain direction in faster running off-road.
Couple this with the additional grip the Bridgestone AT002 tyres deliver and there’s a sense of agility – even playfulness – that brings the Triton Raider to life. The stability control system allows just enough latitude to make the drive more entertaining, allowing higher pace to be carried on unsealed roads, and over the rough stuff.
Add to that a fraction more clearance and a useful front bash plate and the Triton Raider feels ready to go right out of the box.
In low-speed running the Raider is as capable as any of its contemporaries, walking over obstacles and climbing grades with ease.
Select low range, and lock in the rear differential, and there’s a sense the vehicle is just about unstoppable – a considerable remark given the vehicles were tested with the tyres at road pressures and without a load over the rear axle.
Again, we’ll be very keen to see just how far the Raider will go with proper preparations made.
Our gut feeling is that this is the sort of vehicle we’d feel as comfortable taking on a quick run up the PDR (Peninsula Development Rd, Nth Queensland) as we would on the gnarled tracks of the Victorian High Country. It’s as capable as it is enjoyable, lacking only a little more ‘oomph’ to complete the package.
But it’s that point we think might hold the Triton Raider back…
With plenty of choice on the market – including a similarly well-specified and closely related Nissan Navara Pro-4X for almost $7000 less – the Triton Raider is a little too niche to attract the attention it deserves.
While those in the know will appreciate the Raider for what it is, there are many more we fear will overlook the variant in favour of flashier rivals or aftermarket add-ons. Let’s hope time and a healthy order bank proves us wrong.