2003 Mitsubishi Triton GLX review from Australia and New Zealand

Literally not even the most minor mechanical fault has occurred with this ute that is used for real work, not play or suburban posing. The worst thing that has happened is the battery connection corroding and ceasing to make contact.

The only adjustments that have been necessary is to the steering once, when toe-in was out and tyre wear obviously uneven. This was at 90,000 km. The turning circle is woeful and the worst feature of the vehicle. You need a five acre paddock to turn it in!

Body work is tough and remarkably rattle free despite continual work on rough dirt roads, farms etc.

I have had seat covers fitted all the time and the originals underneath are still like new. Interior comfort I find good with a clear and firm driving position. Not being a sucker for gimmicks, the cabin appointments are practical and adequate right down to lack of carpets on the floor. Who wants carpet in a work ute or idiotic electric windows? The radio is particularly clear. Dash appearance is dull, dull, dull funeral director grey. Who picks these god-forsaken colours? Nearly every car is the same now; depressing grey or worse still, black interiors- Yuk!

Being a twin cab, rear seat comfort is inevitably a compromise, but better than any others I have been in particularly Hi-Lux which seem to me to be built front and rear for contortionists. Cabin access is excellent, especially the front.

Fuel economy is good (11-12L/100km) by comparison to others and the turbo version in this goes like a rocket, especially compared to my previous tray model with the same non-turbo 2.8 motor. (but this was much better on fuel at 9-10L/100km). The turbo motor tends to shudder at low revs, but rapidly ceases as speed increases a bit.

Despite transmission problems in early models, due to oil loss, this one has been faultless and is pleasant to use.

Dealer service has been good and they know the model well. Attention to detail can be lacking, but overall their backup has been most satisfactory.

Underneath there is not a sign of oil leaks anywhere and the engine compartment is the same. Amazing.

Load height at the back is tall and often awkward, but it can easily carry a tonne without looking like a duck coming in to land. Brilliant.

These Tritons are tough and outperform competitors well for getting on with no nonsense work.

They deserve a large slice of their market segment.

Fully loaded or not this ute handles very well and is smooth and quiet to drive long distance.