Toyota Hilux vs Mitsubishi Triton: Which is the Better Midsize Pickup Truck?
Choosing the best midsize pickup truck has been a hot topic among truck enthusiasts and utility vehicle fans. Two popular options frequently come up in discussions: the Toyota Hilux and the Mitsubishi Triton. While some might argue the benefit of the Mitsubishi Triton, the Toyota Hilux continues to dominate the market in terms of reliability, off-road capability, and sales.
Toyota Hilux: A Time-Tested Favorite
The Toyota Hilux has been a cornerstone in the midsize truck segment, particularly in the United States, for nearly two decades now. The Tacoma, its American variant, has consistently been the best-selling and most reliable midsize truck. Over half of all midsize trucks sold in the United States are Tacoma or its variants. This dominance is not a coincidence but a result of several factors that make it an excellent choice for both commercial and personal use.
One of the key reasons the Hilux has maintained its position is the inclusion of fleet sales in overall sales statistics. Fleet trucks, while not typically considered by individual buyers, are known for their dependability and maintainability. Another significant competitor is the Nissan Frontier, which is also a top-performing truck. Other older models like the S-10, Ranger, and Dakota either stopped selling or faced a hiatus, making the Toyota Hilux and its variants stand out.
Another notable aspect of the Toyota Hilux is its diesel engine. For those in search of the highest quality in the compact-midsize pickup segment, the Hilux fits the bill perfectly. The robustness and reliability of the Hilux make it a top choice for those demanding the best from their truck.
Personal Experience with the Mitsubishi Triton
From personal experience, the Mitsubishi Triton (known as the L200 in the UK) was purchased brand new and experienced an unfortunate early failure. Upon discovering that the car had large end failures, sending the piston into the head, it led to significant repair issues. The local dealership attempted to avoid warranty coverage, but eventually, after my mention of contacting the largest Mitsubishi dealership in Cardiff, they took corrective action. A new short engine and a rebuilt head were the solutions provided. However, the incident revealed a concerning batch of engine failures due to incorrect torque settings during assembly in Malaysia, which impacted many similar vehicles.
While the Mitsubishi Triton had its moments, the overall reliability and engineering prowess of the Toyota Hilux, as wielded by Toyota and its premium brand Lexus, have remained impressively consistent over the years. Their products are often over-engineered, which translates into better durability and longevity. Numerous individuals who have owned or currently own a Toyota or any of its brands swear by their brilliance, much like Toyota vehicles.
Conclusion
In summary, while both the Toyota Hilux and the Mitsubishi Triton offer robust utility and reliability, the Toyota Hilux has consistently proven superior in terms of market share, resilience, and customer satisfaction. If reliability and off-road capability are top priorities, a Toyota Hilux is undoubtedly the best choice for a midsize pickup truck.