Mitsubishi Triton Reduces Payload Capacity to Attract More Buyers in Australia
The Mitsubishi Triton is now offered with a reduced payload capacity of under 1,000kg in Australia.
- The option is available for the GLS and GSR grades of the pickup, without any changes in pricing.
- The reduced payload makes the Triton eligible for novated leasing, thus appealing to a wider customer range.
Mitsubishi has expanded its Triton pickup lineup in Australia by introducing “additional payload variants.” However, instead of increasing the truck’s capability, the company has actually reduced the payload capacity of existing trims to make them eligible for Australia’s novated leasing scheme, attracting a wider range of customers.
The reduced payload option is now available for the Mitsubishi Triton GLS and GSR grades, starting this August. While specific details are not provided, the payload capacity is mentioned to be under 1,000kg (2,205 pounds), with all other specifications remaining unchanged.
Compared to the standard versions, the reduced payload translates to a reduction of 75kg and 30kg for the GLS and GSR trims, respectively. The rest of the Triton lineup offers payload capacities between 1,030-1,110kg (2,271-2,447 pounds) depending on the trim.
It is unclear whether Mitsubishi made any modifications to the truck’s underpinnings or if the reduced payload is simply a paperwork adjustment. Regardless, the sub-1,000kg (2,205 pounds) rating is offered as a no-cost option, with the GLS and GSR trims priced the same as the original versions at AU$59,090 (US$38,840) and AU$63,840 (US$41,962), respectively.
All trims of the Australian-market Mitsubishi Triton are equipped with a 2.4-liter four-cylinder turbodiesel engine, producing up to 201 horsepower (150 kW / 204 PS). The engine is paired with a six-speed automatic gearbox, with power sent to the rear or all four wheels.
Mitsubishi states that the decision to expand the Triton lineup was based on feedback from dealers, media, and customers. The company believes that the reduced payload option will attract a wider range of customers, including those interested in novated leasing.
What is Novated Leasing?
Novated leasing is a three-way agreement between the lessee, their employer, and a finance or leasing company. It involves deducting lease payments directly from the lessee’s salary, with the employer’s involvement. Similar to regular leasing deals, novated leasing can include running costs such as insurance, servicing, tires, and registration, and can be arranged for a set period with pre-determined annual mileage.
One of the key benefits of novated leasing is that it allows the lessee to deduct the annual lease payments from their taxable income, while also exempting them from the Goods and Services Tax (GST). The savings are even greater for plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs) or electric vehicles (EVs), but some individuals still choose this option for internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles.
Mitsubishi’s decision to make the Triton comply with novated leasing legislation is a strategic move to attract more buyers in the Australian market, where trucks like the Ford Ranger and Toyota Hilux, both offering sub-1,000kg (2,205 pounds) payloads, are top sellers.
