2022 Mitsubishi Triton Phantom Plus Edition launched in Malaysia: limited to 1k units, from RM 139k

• Based on AT Premium variant, but with additional accessories
• Costs RM 12.8k more than AT Premium
• Roof-mounted Hella lights operated only on high-beam switch

Need a truck, but hate how it'll look like everyone elses? Here's a limited-edition solution – the just-launched-in-Malaysia 2022 Mitsubishi Triton Phantom Plus Edition, priced from RM 139,700, slotting in just below the range-topping Athlete variant.

Limited to 1k units only, loads of parts

Just 1,000 units of this will be produced, and you can have yours in any colour so long its Jet Black Mica. The Phantom doesn't need any other colour anyway; as it is it's probably the biggest badass of Malaysia's trucking scene.

Also read: On your marks, get set and the Mitsubishi Triton is ready to go in the Asia Cross Country Rally

The front- and rear bumpers (with red garnishes), as well as the matte sports bar on the truck bed are perhaps the only aesthetic touches it share with its Athlete stablemate, as the Phantom Plus Edition ups the ante elsewhere.

Specifically on the roof, as there's a set of big 'move over' Hella LED lights up there now. It may look a little over the top, but I like it, and we reckon the 1,000 units won't have trouble zipping out of showrooms solely because of these lights.

Point to note however: the roof-mounted lights are activated only via high beam, therefore making it road legal because it's technically not a spotlight.

The wheels are new too; all-black 18-inch units wrapped in Yokohama Geolandar All-Terrain (A/T) tyres. Side door mouldings, tailgate assist, and Phantom tailgate moulding with rear spoiler are also more of the specific add-ons, in addition to the must-have stickers on the rear quarter panels.

Also read: Mitsubishi Motors donates high-power solar systems to the Orang Asli community

As this edition is based on the Premium variant, buyers will still get halogen headlights (with halogen daytime running lights, DRL), fog lights at the front and rear, and power-adjustable side mirrors with integrated turn signals.

Toughened up interior

Red detailing breaks up the all-black monotony of the cabin, with the hue appearing on seat stitches, the LED scuff plates, and on the steering wheel.

The main difference between this and its base Premium variant is in its seats – this gains a geometric pattern, and there's 'Phantom Plus Edition' stitching on the front headrests. Manual adjustments still stay, with a centre armest for the passengers at the back.

Also read: Mitsubishi's rally spirit lives on in this Mitsubishi Triton Rally Car

Creature comforts like Android Auto and Apple CarPlay connectivity through its 9-inch infotainment touchscreen, a six-speaker setup, three USB ports, and digital air-conditioning with rear roof-mounted vents, are all still present and correct.

Also read: Better paint quality 2022 Mitsubishi Tritons coming, Thai plant gets a RM 378 mil upgrade

The Triton Phantom Plus Edition also gets a Driving Video Recorder (DVR, dashcam) offered by Mitsubishi Motors Malaysia (MMM) authorised dealers as standard equipment.

Performance

Under the hood is a 2.4-litre MIVEC turbodiesel four-cylinder engine, making 181 PS and 430 Nm. This is paired to a 6-speed automatic transmission, and Mitsubishi's Easy Select 4WD system, which differs from the viscous coupling centre differential Super Select 4WD II that's on the range-topping Athlete.

Also read: Live in a flood-prone area? Consider relocating or buy these pick-up trucks

You'll be able to switch between 2H, 4H, and 4L modes on the fly; and there's off-road modes for Gravel, Sand, Mud/Snow and Rock conditions. However, none of our Tritons come with a differential lock (standard on the Toyota Hilux), and this Phantom Plus Edition doesn't change that.

Suspension remains the same, with independent wishbone, coil springs up front, and leaf springs at the back and it boasts a tight turning radius of just 5.9 metres.

Safety

Advanced safety aids (ADAS) are still locked to the Athlete, so buyers will have to make do with the regular prerequisites of anti-lock braking system with electronic brake force distribution (ABS, EBD), brake assist (BA), active stability control (ASC), and traction control (TC). Airbag count stands at just two.

Also read: Mitsubishi Motors' sales advisors in Malaysia won’t nanny you during test drives anymore

Price and aftersales

As above, prices for the 2022 Mitsubishi Triton Phantom Plus Edition in Malaysia starts from RM 139,700. Each unit is backed by a five-year / 200,000 km warranty.