Mitsubishi Triton IV (ML/MN) (2005 – 2015)

Reliability score : 8.2/10

The fourth-generation Mitsubishi Triton (ML series from 2005 to 2009, then MN from 2009 to 2015), also known as the L200 in Europe, marked a major stylistic departure in the pickup segment with its curvy design and famous "J-line" cab/bed separation. Offered in Single Cab, Club Cab, and Double Cab, it stood out with its excellent Super Select 4WD all-wheel drive system (allowing 4x4 driving on dry roads, rare in this segment). It is a utility and leisure vehicle renowned for its overall robustness, highly popular in Australia, Southeast Asia, and Europe. The generation underwent a facelift (transitioning from ML to MN) introducing, in particular, upgrades to the 2.5L engine to compensate for the discontinuation of the 3.2L in certain markets.

✅ Strengths

Super Select 4WD transmission (depending on trim) offering rare versatility
Exceptional reliability of the 3.2L 4M41 engine and INVECS-II automatic gearbox
Well-established Mitsubishi after-sales network (especially in Oceania and Asia)
Distinctive design offering good rear-seat roominess (Double Cab)
Off-road capabilities and robustness of the ladder frame chassis

⚠️ Weaknesses

2.5L 4D56 engine requiring rigorous maintenance (belt, EGR)
Risk of overheating on 2.5L MN versions (178 hp) under heavy load
Very utilitarian interior plastic quality, prone to scratching
Very firm rear suspension (leaf springs) when unladen, bouncing on degraded roads
Large turning radius

🎯 Verdict

The 4th generation Mitsubishi Triton / L200 is an extremely competent pickup, whose main asset lies in its Super Select transmission. If you are looking for absolute reliability, favor the ML models equipped with the 3.2L (4M41) engine, which is a true rock. The versions equipped with the 2.5L (4D56) are good vehicles, but require an informed buyer: maintenance cannot suffer any delay (belt at 100,000 km, EGR cleaning). The INVECS-II automatic gearbox is a paragon of reliability. It is a highly recommendable used purchase, provided you scrupulously check the maintenance history and the absence of overheating on the recent 2.5L versions (MN).

Common issues

Défaillance ou encrassement des injecteurs de carburant diesel High

🔧 100 000 – 180 000 km

💶 1 500 – 3 000 €

Vérifier la qualité du carburant et faire contrôler les retours d'injecteurs régulièrement.

Défaillance du turbocompresseur High

🔧 120 000 – 220 000 km

💶 1 000 – 2 000 €

Respecter les temps de chauffe/refroidissement et effectuer des vidanges régulières avec huile de qualité.

Encrassement de la vanne EGR Medium

🔧 80 000 – 150 000 km

💶 300 – 700 €

Un nettoyage préventif ou un décalaminage régulier peut aider à prévenir l'encrassement.

Usure prématurée de l'embrayage (boîte manuelle) Medium

🔧 100 000 – 180 000 km

💶 900 – 1 600 €

Tester l'embrayage lors de l'achat, éviter les surcharges et la conduite agressive.

Problèmes de chaîne de distribution (bruits, usure) High

🔧 180 000 – 250 000 km

💶 1 200 – 2 500 €

Écouter les bruits anormaux du moteur et respecter scrupuleusement les intervalles de vidange.

Estimated maintenance costs

Oil change	£80 – 140
Timing chain	£1 000 – 2 000
Clutch	£800 – 1 400
Complete brakes	£280 – 550
Estimated annual budget	£650 – 1 250

Indicative estimates (independent garage, UK market). Prices vary by region and year.