The Mitsubishi Triton Could Borrow Its Best Ideas From the New Pajero

Mitsubishi is already working on the next update for its midsize pickup, and the new Pajero could provide much of the inspiration.

The automaker recently unveiled the revived Pajero as its new flagship SUV while also confirming plans for a Triton facelift. The two vehicles share the same ladder-frame architecture, and Mitsubishi is expected to bring them closer together in both design and technology as the pickup evolves.

The current sixth-generation Triton debuted for the 2023 model year, meaning a significant update could arrive within the next few years. A refresh after 2028 would make sense, particularly as the pickup faces newer versions of the Ford Ranger and Toyota Hilux, along with an expanding selection of Chinese midsize trucks in international markets.

A recent rendering imagines what that could look like by transplanting the new Pajero's front-end design onto the Triton.

The concept features the Pajero's T-shaped LED headlights, a revised Dynamic Shield grille treatment without chrome trim, and substantial lower-body protection. The result is considerably more upscale and distinctive than the current Triton's split headlights and angular front fascia.

At the rear, Mitsubishi could take a more conservative approach to keep development and production costs under control. Updated LED taillights and revised tailgate trim could provide most of the visual changes, while higher-end versions could receive new fender flares, alloy wheels, and additional exterior color combinations.

A More Modern Interior

Although the Triton and Pajero share key structural components, the Pajero sits above the pickup in Mitsubishi's lineup in both price and positioning.

That means some of the SUV's more expensive upgrades—including its premium interior materials, additional sound insulation, and specially tuned suspension—would be unlikely to make the jump to the Triton.

Mitsubishi could still make the pickup's cabin feel considerably more modern without turning it into a pickup version of the Pajero.

For example, the Triton could receive a larger infotainment display to replace its current 9-inch screen, along with a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and new interior trim options. Additional improvements to comfort and safety would also help keep the truck competitive as rivals continue to add technology.

Mitsubishi has already shown how far it could take the Triton nameplate with several specialized versions in different markets.

The luxurious Terra, rugged BF MS, and South American Savana Sertoes demonstrate the potential for a broader Triton lineup. Australia's Triton Raider, developed with Premcar-tuned chassis hardware, provides another example of how the pickup can be adapted for buyers looking for greater off-road capability.

Mitsubishi has also hinted at a more performance-oriented Ralliart version. Such a model could potentially take aim at trucks like the Ford Ranger Raptor, combining additional power with chassis upgrades and more aggressive exterior styling.

Chassis and Powertrains

The Triton is expected to retain its existing ladder frame and Super Select 4WD II four-wheel-drive system.

The pickup also shares its underlying platform with the Australian-market Nissan Navara, although the Navara receives its own chassis tuning from Premcar.

The current Triton uses a 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder diesel engine, with output varying by market. In Thailand, the engine is offered with approximately 148 or 181 horsepower, depending on configuration.

Australian buyers can also get a flagship twin-turbo version producing 201 horsepower and 347 lb-ft of torque.

The new Pajero makes more power from an updated 2.4-liter diesel engine with a single variable-geometry turbocharger. That engine could eventually find its way into the Triton as part of the pickup's next round of updates.

But the more significant development may be electrification.

Mitsubishi is reportedly working on hybrid powertrains for both the Pajero and Triton. A fully electric version was also considered for the current-generation pickup, although reports indicate that project may have been delayed or canceled.

If Mitsubishi follows its traditional product-update cycle, prototypes of the next Triton could begin appearing in the near future.

For now, the company has not confirmed the final design or specifications of the updated pickup. But if Mitsubishi wants the Triton to remain competitive against increasingly capable midsize trucks, borrowing some of the new Pajero's design language and technology could be a logical next step.