The latest video commercial for the Mitsubishi Triton is probably among the better Malaysia-produced ads for a pick-up truck, if not the best.

Produced by Five55 Production, the ad left a lasting impression in our minds mainly because of its driving scenes, which was done by two-time Dakar Rally champion Hiroshi Masuoka.

Recall that Masuoka-san, who is also an ambassador for the tri-diamond brand, was in Malaysia earlier in March for Mitsubishi Motors Malaysia’s 4SureThrill event at Setia Alam.

What many didn’t know was that apart from the obligatory public appearance at the event, Masuoka-san was also shuttled off to Putrajaya to shoot the ad, which took about 3 days to complete.

All the driving scenes shown in the video were actual driving scenes done by Masuoka-san himself. The only time when CGI effects were used was to touch up the background.  

Although the Mitsubishi Triton comes equipped with many notable features, the ad retained its focus purely on the emotional aspects of the car, thus avoiding the common pitfall of many car ads.

The main highlight of the Mitsubishi Triton is its powertrain, which is the most sophisticated in its class. The 4N15 2.4-litre turbo diesel uses an aluminum block, which makes it very light and thus very fuel efficient.

The lower 15.5:1 compression ratio and variable valve timing also means that it runs quieter than other trucks, and when coupled with Mitsubishi’s signature rally experience-tuned suspension, makes the Mitsubishi Triton the most comfortable pick-up truck on sale today.

The SuperSelect 4WD II (only on Adventure X variant) is also one of a kind. Where other trucks’ Part-Time 4WD drivetrain mean that 4WD cannot be engaged when driving on tarred roads, the Triton Adventure X’s SuperSelect 4WD II adds a viscous coupling that allows the Triton to run on 4WD mode even on normal roads, just like a full-time 4WD SUV. It even comes with a Land Rover-type terrain mode control - Gravel, Mud, Sand or Rock.

Inside, the Triton is the only truck to come with roof-mounted air-conditioning vents, which works better than floor-mounted ones like those fitted in a Nissan Navara.

It also comes with a good mix of advanced driving aids, including forward collision warning, blind spot monitor, rear-cross traffic alert, hill descent control, hill start assist, auto high beam and lane change assist.  

Prices start from RM 100,200 but most of the features mentioned above are only available in the premium variants, which cost upwards of RM 112,500.