Mitsubishi Triton V (MQ/MR) (2015 – 2023)

Reliability score : 8.2/10

The 5th generation Mitsubishi Triton (known as the L200 in Europe and other markets) was launched in 2015 (MQ series) before receiving a major facelift in late 2018/early 2019 (MR series). This facelift introduced the aggressive "Dynamic Shield" front fascia, improved suspension, larger brakes, and a new 6-speed automatic gearbox. Positioned as a more affordable alternative to the segment leaders (Ford Ranger, Toyota HiLux), it stands out with its excellent Super Select II AWD system (allowing 4x4 driving on dry roads) and its very tight turning radius. It is a pickup renowned for its robustness, particularly popular in Australia, Southeast Asia, and Europe for its unbeatable price-to-performance ratio.

✅ Strengths

Excellent overall reliability (rated Good to Very Good by ADAC and RACQ)
Very robust 2.4L 4N15 engine with timing chain
Super Select II 4x4 system (allows permanent 4x4 on tarmac)
6-speed automatic gearbox (MR series) smooth and reliable
Maneuverability (5.9 m turning radius, excellent for a pickup)
Quality/price/equipment ratio compared to the Toyota HiLux

⚠️ Weaknesses

Firm suspension comfort when unladen (typical of pickups, but more pronounced here)
Towing capacity (3100 kg) slightly lower than segment benchmarks (3500 kg)
5-speed automatic gearbox on the MQ series (2015-2018) a bit dated
Thin paint sensitive to scratches
DPF/FAP sensitive to repeated short urban trips

🎯 Verdict

The 5th generation Mitsubishi Triton / L200 (MQ/MR) is an extremely wise choice for anyone looking for a reliable, maneuverable, and affordable pickup. Data from ADAC and Australian organizations (RACQ/ACCC) confirm its great robustness, ranking it from 'Good to Very Good'. The 2.4L 4N15 engine offers an excellent balance between power and durability. We highly recommend targeting a facelifted version (MR series, post-2019) equipped with the 6-speed automatic gearbox and the Super Select II system. It is one of the most rational purchases in the segment, avoiding the overpricing of a Toyota HiLux while offering comparable reliability.

Common issues

Filtre à Particules Diesel (FAP/DPF) encrassé High

🔧 80 000 – 150 000 km

💶 1 200 – 2 500 € (remplacement, nettoyage moins cher)

Privilégier les longs trajets réguliers pour la régénération du FAP.

Vanne EGR encrassée Medium

🔧 70 000 – 130 000 km

💶 500 – 900 € (remplacement, nettoyage moins cher)

Un nettoyage préventif peut prolonger sa durée de vie.

Défaillance du turbocompresseur High

🔧 120 000 – 200 000 km

💶 1 500 – 3 000 €

Respecter les vidanges et laisser le moteur tourner au ralenti avant coupure.

Problèmes d'injecteurs de carburant Medium

🔧 100 000 – 180 000 km

💶 400 – 800 € par injecteur

Utiliser du carburant de qualité et des additifs nettoyants occasionnellement.

Estimated maintenance costs

Oil change	£100 – 180
Timing chain	£700 – 1 300 (si remplacement nécessaire, non routine)
Clutch	£900 – 1 600
Complete brakes	£350 – 600
Estimated annual budget	£700 – 1 400

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