Pick-up trucks were once just work machines, used on construction sites or in the jungle where their tough construction could withstand the rough conditions. In the late 1990s, Malaysian regulations changed to allow such vehicles (initially only double cabs) to be used as private transport, like a car.
This altered the role of the pick-up truck from being just a workhorse to what came to be called a ‘lifestyle machine’. As manufacturers made the trucks more comfortable with passenger car conveniences, many people bought them as alternative daily transport.
Nevertheless, the original role remains and with the enhancement of features for the double cab ‘lifestyle’ machines, the single cabs that were usually bought by businesses also benefitted. Drivers gained more comfortable cabins and safety was also improved.
Variants for work
Mitsubishi Motors Mitsubishi Motors Malaysia (MMM) has offered certain variants in its Triton range for business use, with specifications that focus on what is needed for work, rather than leisure. The core engineering has been the same, ie tough and durable with proven mechanical drivetrains.
The range now gets a new Triton Single Cab with Automatic Transmission, bringing the ease of auto-shifting to a traditionally utility-driven segment. The 6-speed automatic transmission can help reduce driver fatigue, an important benefit to safety during long operating periods or in difficult conditions.
Power is provided by a proven 2.4-litre turbodiesel engine with an output of 184 ps/430 Nm. A mechanical Rear Differential Lock is standard to help the vehicle over extremely difficult and slippery terrain. Wide All-Terrain tyres also provide good grip and enhanced stability on unpaved surfaces.
Passenger car feel
Single cab variants used to be very bare in equipment as it was felt that there was no need to make them comfortable since they were used only for work and often in rough conditions. However, today’s single cabs have a feel and appearance like a passenger car with no bare metal visible around the cabin. There’s air-conditioning and even power-operated windows.
The pick-up truck offers a best-in-class payload capacity of up to 1,145 kgs. The rear cargo bed, with a factory-fitted bedliner, measures 2340 mm in length, 1580 mm in width, and 515 mm in depth. It can accommodate bulky goods, construction materials, or agricultural produce with ease.
Imported from MMC’s factory in Thailand, the Triton Single Cab with Automatic Transmission is priced at RM107,980 (without insurance, private registration in Peninsular Malaysia).
Only in white
It is available only in white for easier application of company logos or other wording. MMM is also offering early buyers a limited-time RM4,000 Diesel Support incentive to help cushion operational costs.
