Mitsubishi Triton wins Design Car of the Year at Japan COTY 2024-2025

KUALA LUMPUR: The Mitsubishi Triton has clinched the Design Car of the Year title at the 2024-2025 Japan Car of the Year awards, recognising its standout exterior and interior design.

This marks Mitsubishi Motors Corporation’s (Mitsubishi Motors) second consecutive win, following last year’s victory with the Delica Mini kei-car.

The award jury praised the Triton for its rugged yet appealing design, which reflects Mitsubishi’s effort to inspire customers toward an adventurous lifestyle. Its robust silhouette complements the bold "Dynamic Shield" front-end design, delivering well-balanced proportions even as a double cab pickup.

Also Read:  2024 Mitsubishi Triton first Impressions: Bold, powerful, but with some surprising quirks

The Triton’s "Beast Mode" design concept played a key role in its recognition, embodying both toughness and agility. The Dynamic Shield grille pairs with three-dimensional fenders and protective elements, creating a strong yet agile stance.

Mitsubishi’s approach has successfully redefined the visual language of pickup trucks, combining rugged functionality with a modern aesthetic.

Inside, the Triton continues its attention to detail with a "Horizontal Axis" dashboard design, enhancing visibility and aiding drivers in assessing changes in vehicle posture.

Soft-touch padding in key areas ensures passenger safety, while geometric shapes and metallic finishes add a contemporary touch. Practicality is front and center, with glove-friendly controls and a focus on grip comfort for essential touchpoints like the steering wheel and door handles.

Mitsubishi’s one-ton pickup has a long legacy, tracing its lineage to the Forte, first introduced in 1978.

Over the course of five generations, the Triton has reached global sales of approximately 5.7 million units across 150 countries, solidifying its status as a global strategic model for the brand.

The all-new Triton, developed under the theme "Power for Adventure," underwent a comprehensive redesign, including updates to the chassis, ladder frame, and engine.

It was first launched in Thailand in mid-2023 and later made its debut in Japan in February 2024. The vehicle is now being introduced across 100 countries, targeting both commercial users and outdoor enthusiasts with an adventurous spirit.

The Japan Car of the Year awards honour vehicles introduced to the Japanese market between November 1, 2023, and October 31, 2024.

Following test drives and jury evaluations, winners were announced on December 5. Categories include the overall Car of the Year, Import Car of the Year, Design Car of the Year, and Technology Car of the Year.

Mitsubishi Motors Malaysia launched the sixth-generation Mitsubishi Triton back in October 2024. It's available in five variants: Single Cab, MT, AT GL, AT Premium, and Athlete. Prices start at RM101,980 for the base Single Cab and go up to RM165,980 for the range-topping Athlete variant.

The Triton is powered by three engine options, including a 2.4L two-stage turbocharged diesel unit with 204 PS and 470 Nm for the Athlete and 184 PS and 430 Nm for the other variants. Transmission choices include a 6-speed automatic with Sport Mode and a 6-speed manual.

Safety features include Forward Collision Mitigation, Adaptive Cruise Control, and Blind Spot Warning in higher variants. With a 5-year warranty and updated technology, the Triton aims to cater to both commercial and private users in Malaysia.

Although it might not be the first name on people's lips when thinking about vehicle innovation, Mitsubishi Motors continues to  innovate in the SUV, pickup truck, and electrification segments.

Easily forgotten, Mitsubishi actually made pioneering efforts in electric vehicles, when the company introduced the world’s first mass-produced EV in 2009 and the first plug-in hybrid SUV in 2013.

With a goal of achieving 100% electrified vehicle sales by 2035, Mitsubishi Motors remains committed to contributing to a carbon-neutral future.

This latest accolade reinforces Mitsubishi’s position as a leader in crafting vehicles that blend functionality with design excellence, appealing to both the practical and aspirational needs of drivers worldwide.

Also Read: Mitsubishi Malaysia launches all-new Triton: Full details revealed