Mitsubishi dealers behind Walkinshaw-enhanced Triton Xtreme
BY PETER BARNWELL
WITH the new sixth-generation Mitsubishi Triton ute only days away from international launch in Thailand, and here before the end of the year, local Mitsubishi dealers have received stock of the Walkinshaw enhanced current model Triton Xtreme priced from $71,990 plus on-road costs.
That’s a whopping premium of $14K on the next down Triton GSR on which it is based.
As a result of pressure from sections of Mitsubishi’s Australian (metro and regional) dealer network, up to 500 units have been built by Walkinshaw Performance in response to Nissan’s Navara Pro-4X Warrior and Ford Ranger Wildtrak, among others.
Under development for two years, the ‘hero’ Walkinshaw Triton Xtreme amounts to more than just wheels and mudflaps and features component design and ideas lifted from other Walkinshaw projects such as the HSV Colorado SportsCat (suspension) and the VW Amarok W580 that were fettled by the performance specialist.
Walkinshaw Performance already had runs on the board for engineering and producing short-run limited edition models with the Xtreme focused on chassis and styling upgrades.
Power comes from a standard (unmodified) 2.4-litre turbo diesel four generating 133kW and 430Nm, outputs that place the Xtreme well behind its rivals. Walkinshaw apparently ran out of time for any engine development…
However, other engineering changes add to its appeal in terms of ride and handling along with off road capability.
Supashock products are favoured by Walkinshaw for their quality and performance, with those on the Xtreme featuring a 56mm monotube construction with 20mm damper rod. All four units have remote reservoirs for improved heat dissipation and to reduce cavitation. The fronts are full remotes via connecting hoses while the rears are piggy back.
Flared guards are fitted to accommodate the wider track and chunky BF Goodrich 265/60/R18 KO2 all-terrain tyres.
The slightly modified front bar is equipped with a light bar while the front bash plate underneath has been extensively tested in hot weather and at high speeds. A sports bar behind the cab completes the protection package with a soft tonneau cover over the tub.
Inside, the five-seat Triton Xtreme is GSR spec with leather upholstery and heated front seats. The vehicle’s design age is exemplified in its small info screen and in other human-machine interface areas.
Important vital statistics for Triton Xtreme are its towing capacity of 2900kg braked and a GCM of 5885kg. The fuel tank holds 75 litres and the vehicle uses a combined 7.9 litres per 100km. It has a payload of 900kg and Mitsubishi’s Super Select II 4x4 system distributes drive through six-speed automatic transmission.
The current Triton has been a consistent seller during its model life as a value-for-money option against other Japanese-branded one-tonne utes and the Volkswagen Amarok while holding more brand recognition than low-cost competitors such as GWM, SsangYong and LDV.
Walkinshaw Performance’s commercial director Oliver Lukeis said there was not enough time to upgrade the Triton’s engine outputs and pass all homologation requirements.
“Upgrading engine power and changing things like the exhaust require specific engineering and official approval which all takes time. We put a focus on the chassis and the vehicle’s dynamics. The forged 18-inch wheels reduce weight significantly, allowing the suspension to function better while increasing the Xtreme’s track,” he explained.
“The Supashock suspension makes a huge difference to the vehicle’s dynamics and changing the wheel offset gave us an additional 42mm of track for a wider stance and improved stability.”
Earlier mentions of a Ralliart Triton were unfounded but whispers surrounding the new gen Triton suggest one might be in the offing… but some time down the track. In the meantime, there’s always the Triton Xtreme.
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