Plug-in hybrid (PHEV) power is coming to the all-new Mitsubishi Triton – but it won't be diesel, confirms a senior Mitsubishi Motors engineer to media outlet Carsales Australia.

Speaking at the ongoing Japan Mobility Show 2023 (JMS), Kaoru Sawase says that "Mitsubishi Motors are researching and developing such a [PHEV] system, but at this moment launching time is not decided yet,” referring to the upcoming powertrain and its launch timing.

However, it will be different from the system employed by the Outlander PHEV; in fact, it needs to be all-new. This is because the system in the Outlander, for example, are based on a transverse design for front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive applications; but the Triton's longitudinal format and different use call for a redesign.

“The Triton is a longitudinal powertrain design and also when comparing the Outlander and the Triton the expected off-road capability level is pretty different.”

“So basically in order to have an off-road capable vehicle with the current PHEV technology in a Triton-type powertrain a completely different type is needed, different from Outlander," says Sawase.

Also read: In the land of kei minicars, pick-up trucks are the new cool - Mitsubishi Triton returns to Japan

Hence it will likely use a similar e-axle technology that's seen in other all-wheel drive off-road SUVs.

Though details like power and torque outputs are still under wraps, it will be petrol-powered, as a diesel PHEV system would be too costly to make, according to the report. In the interim however, a hybrid variant of the Triton will come first.

Also read: A hybrid next gen 2023 Mitsubishi Triton is under development, PHEV mulled but cost is a concern