Mitsubishi appears to be preparing an important update for the next Triton pickup truck, slated for the 2028 model year. And this time, the changes could go deeper than a new face or additional equipment.
As reported by Australian media outlet Drive, the next major Triton update could adopt the revised diesel engine introduced with the reborn Mitsubishi Pajero. The move would give the pickup access to a newer version of Mitsubishi’s 2.4-liter diesel, bringing changes aimed at emissions compliance, refinement and efficiency.
That engine is already a significant departure from the unit currently used by the Triton. The existing 2.4-liter 4N16 twin-turbo diesel produces 201 hp and 470 Nm, while the Pajero’s version switches to a single variable-geometry turbocharger and produces 201 hp and 480 Nm. Mitsubishi also equips the new engine with updated emissions technology, including AdBlue after-treatment, allowing it to meet Euro 6d standards.
On paper, the 10 Nm increase may not sound like much. The bigger story is how the engine delivers its output. Mitsubishi developed the Pajero’s diesel with a wider-range variable-geometry turbocharger, while also working on quieter operation and smoother response. The engine is paired with a new eight-speed automatic transmission in the Pajero.
That raises another interesting possibility for the Triton.
The current pickup uses a six-speed automatic in most markets, including the model sold here in the Philippines. Mitsubishi originally retained that transmission partly because of durability considerations. With the new Pajero now using an eight-speed automatic, there is speculation that the Triton could eventually receive the same gearbox as part of its update. That remains unconfirmed, however.
The timing could also be significant. Australia is scheduled to introduce Euro 6d emissions requirements from July 2028, which provides a practical reason for Mitsubishi to bring the cleaner Pajero-derived diesel into the Triton around the same period. The exact timing and specifications will depend on market requirements and Mitsubishi’s product plans.
For Philippine buyers, the development is worth watching even if the 2028 Triton remains some distance away. The current-generation pickup is already built around Mitsubishi’s ladder-frame architecture, while the new Pajero shares much of its underlying hardware with the Triton. Mitsubishi itself says the new Pajero is being produced in Thailand and will eventually be introduced across roughly 100 markets, including ASEAN countries.
There is another piece to this story, too. Reports indicate Mitsubishi is studying electrified versions of its ladder-frame models, potentially including the Triton and Pajero, as part of additional investment in Thailand.
So the future Triton may not simply be a refreshed pickup. It could become the beneficiary of Mitsubishi’s latest diesel and electrification developments, with the new Pajero providing a preview of what is coming next.
Autocar’s Take
The interesting thing about this possible 2028 Mitsubishi Triton update is that the biggest change may not be something you can immediately see. A revised diesel engine and potentially a new automatic transmission could make a meaningful difference to refinement, efficiency and everyday drivability without changing what people already like about the Triton.
The Pajero connection is particularly interesting. Mitsubishi is clearly using its ladder-frame models as part of a common development strategy, and that could benefit the Triton in the long run. For Philippine buyers, the possibility of cleaner diesel technology and eventual electrification makes this a development worth keeping an eye on.
