An updated version of Mitsubishi’s L200 pickup truck, also known as the Triton, has been spotted undergoing tests. The two double-cab prototypes were completely camouflaged, both outside and in.
Luckily, it doesn’t take much for anybody to notice just how different the front end is on these prototypes, compared to the trucks we’re already accustomed to. Also, to say that Mitsubishi grabbed a page out of both Hyundai’s as well as Citroen’s design book, would not be an overstatement.
A split headlight aesthetic
Even with the camouflage, the front end of the revised L200 kind of reminds us a lot of the Hyundai Santa Fe’s. It has a pair of very thin headlights, especially compared to the current L200, plus another set of lights right underneath, incorporated within the front spoiler and flanking the grille – just like on the Santa Fe, or the Kona, or various Citroen models, to a lesser extent.
We’re not suggesting there’s any connection between these models, but we can’t ignore the trend either. It’s definitely going to make the updated L200 stand out more than its “bulky-eyed” predecessor, which has a pair of really large headlights. Oh and the hood is different as well, obviously.
With the taillights, we can’t be sure about their overall shape, but height-wise, they do seem to occupy more room here than they do on the current truck. Thus, we expect a slightly altered rear end too.
Better tech is a given
Earlier this year, Mitsubishi gave the L200 standard Trailer Stability Assist, as well as the automaker’s Smartphone Link Display Audio infotainment system, which as the name suggests, offers smartphone integration, voice control and a few other things.
Whetherthe facelifted truck will also add the likes of new switchgear, a revised instrument cluster or more supportive seats, remains to be seen. What we can tell you is that the cabin is camouflaged for a reason, so changes are definitely coming, especially in the on-board tech department.
As for performance, in order for the truck’s current 3.5 tonne (7,716 lbs) towing capacity to go up, changes would probably need to occur as far as the engine and 4WD system are concerned. We’ll likely learn more about these details when Mitsubishi finally unveils the vehicle, which is likely to happen sometime next year.
Once the facelifted L200/Triton hits global markets, it will continue battling the likes of the VW Amarok, Toyota Hilux, Ford Ranger and Nissan Navara.