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Truck wars: Mitsubishi Triton vs Toyota Hilux vs Isuzu D-Max

Jason · Jan 19, 2021 05:00 PM

Truck wars: Mitsubishi Triton vs Toyota Hilux vs Isuzu D-Max 01

Shopping for a truck? Well, you're in luck! It's no understatement to say that when it comes to trucks, you're spoiled for choice, because the competitors in this segment are of such high quality. That doesn't mean we won't try to help you make an informed buying decision.

2020 Mitsubishi Triton 2.4 Adventure X

Truck wars: Mitsubishi Triton vs Toyota Hilux vs Isuzu D-Max 02

Coming in with an eye-catching Sun Flare Orange Pearl, is the 2020 Mitsubishi Triton 2.4 Adventure X. Packing 181 PS & 430 Nm and Mitsubishi's rallying know-how, the Triton promises on-road refinement and genuine off-road prowess. In recent years, the Triton has steadily become a rising star in the pick-up truck segment.

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Truck wars: Mitsubishi Triton vs Toyota Hilux vs Isuzu D-Max 01

Having had the chance sample the Mitsubishi Triton for 2 days, there were a few things that really stood out for me. One, the MIVEC Turbodiesel engine was impressively refined, be it at idle or on-throttle. This powerplant did not feel like a diesel at all, it's that refined. 

Truck wars: Mitsubishi Triton vs Toyota Hilux vs Isuzu D-Max 02

Two, the Triton possesses superb handling manners. Make no mistake, the Triton handles the most car-like of the 3 trucks here. Steering is responsive, brakes are progressive, and all these just make the Triton that little bit sweeter to drive. 

2020 Toyota Hilux 2.8 Rogue

Truck wars: Mitsubishi Triton vs Toyota Hilux vs Isuzu D-Max 03

Weighing in with 204 PS & 500 Nm, the 2020 Toyota Hilux 2.8 Rogue is one of the most instantly recognisable nameplates anywhere in the world. It's equipped with serious hardware to go with its rugged, uncompromising presence. Is it as indestructible as people claim it to be? 

Truck wars: Mitsubishi Triton vs Toyota Hilux vs Isuzu D-Max 04

What really struck me in the Toyota Hilux Rogue was the whole feeling that the truck is absolutely ready for anything. To my eyes at least, this is the best-looking truck of the trio. So, while it may not be the most refined nor best-driving truck, it does have character in spades.

Truck wars: Mitsubishi Triton vs Toyota Hilux vs Isuzu D-Max 05

The Hilux Rogue's performance figures ensure that raw grunt is never found wanting. Overtaking and high-speed behaviour is superb for what is a 2-tonne vehicle. But, there is a sting in the tail, despite it being the most powerful of the 3 (hint: it's in the video below). 

2020 Isuzu D-Max 1.9 Premium

Truck wars: Mitsubishi Triton vs Toyota Hilux vs Isuzu D-Max 06

Last but not least, the 2020 Isuzu D-Max 1.9 Premium. Yes, we know. It looks unremarkable inside and out (it 'only has' 150 PS & 350 Nm), but therein lies its appeal. If you're someone who wants a no-frills workhorse that you can pound all day, and still drive home with minimal fuss, perhaps this Isuzu D-Max will be your cup of tea.

Truck wars: Mitsubishi Triton vs Toyota Hilux vs Isuzu D-Max 07

Immediately, the D-Max lags behind the Triton and Hilux in both performance and driving experience. Even sitting in the cabin, the overarching theme of the D-Max screams 'utilitarian'. Is that necessarily a bad thing? Nope. 

Truck wars: Mitsubishi Triton vs Toyota Hilux vs Isuzu D-Max 08

The D-Max exhibits an honest, zero-nonsense approach to the work it gets tasked with. You would imagine that the D-Max is dead last in every possible metric measured against the Triton and Hilux, and you would be wrong actually. It was more than capable of springing an upset or two.

Conclusion

Truck wars: Mitsubishi Triton vs Toyota Hilux vs Isuzu D-Max 09

To come to a more conclusive decision, we subject all 3 cars to various challenges, off-road and on. Wanna know the winner? Find out in the video below. 

 

Jason

Road Test Editor

Jason's foremost passion is all things automotive, where he spent his formative working years as a Product Planner and Trainer. An Advanced Driving Instructor by training and an all-round enthusiast, Jason loves going into intricate details about driving dynamics. Will drive anything with 4 wheels and a steering.

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