During the recent launch of the updated Mitsubishi Triton, we sat down with Jaco Oosthuizen to talk about future models, and how it will position its new Triton when it arrives in 2015.
Mitsubishi has decided not to offer ESP in the updated Triton. Any specific reason for this?
It boils down to what specification is available from the manufacturer. If you ask me if ESP is important for me, yes it is, and I would like to offer it in our bakkies and to our customers. As soon as it becomes available, at a reasonable price, I would like to add it to the range.
When will the new Triton arrive, and how will it be approached in terms of design? It was after all probably the first double-cab bakkie that split peoples’ opinion regarding looks.
The all-new Triton will arrive in 2015. It will definitely be less radical in design than the current model. I have seen the new Triton and I can tell you the lines are softer. Whereas Ford and Mazda, for instance, aim for the larger, more truck-oriented design and size, the new Triton will remain more compact. We also plan to expand the Triton range once the new model has been launched.
What are Mitsubishi South Africa’s plans for future products, especially passenger cars?
During the first quarter of 2014 we will launch the new Outlander. Next up might be the Mirage. This is a very price-sensitive market segment, between R120 000 and R130 000, so we need to be able to offer it at a competitive price. At the moment we can’t confirm if we will be importing it, but we are looking at the possibility.
CAR: What can you tell me about the new Evo?
Oosthuizen: Currently there is no new Evo.
CAR: So, Mitsubishi is not even working on a development mule?
Oosthuizen: No, they are. But the focus will be on a very environmentally friendly car.
CAR: In that case it could be hybrid then?
Oosthuizen: I can’t tell. Mitsubishi is very environmentally conscious. Currently the Evo doesn’t translate this perspective very well.
