The new four-speed automatic transmission will be matched to Mitsubishi's powerful and economical 3.2-litre common rail direct injection diesel engine and this configuration is expected to be a high volume selling variant in the Triton range.

Originally launched in 2006, the ML Triton two- and four-wheel drive line-up now offers the Australian market a full and wide-ranging choice of rugged, yet stylish and comfortable sports utility vehicles and workhorses, including two- and four-wheel drives, dual cab or cab chassis models and the choice of 2.4-litre 4 cylinder and 3.5-litre V6 petrol engines or an economical 3.2-litre inter-cooled diesel engine.

Sales figures for the Triton have proven remarkable since its release, with record after record broken on a regular basis. In fact, the result posted by the 4x4 Triton in June 2007 was the best ever monthly result for Triton in Australia and a significant 35% up on the previous "best ever sales month" of June 2006. Although the segment itself has increased since July 2006, Triton's popularity and unbreakable reputation has seen the vehicle's growth rate stay well in front of the market average.

Robert McEniry, President and CEO of MMAL, expects to see this new variant increase Triton's share in the Australian market even further. "During 2006, 4x4 Triton sales increased by 24%. 2007 has seen this trend continue with the rugged utility showing an impressive 46% increase year-to-date." Mr McEniry said.

"The introduction of the automatic diesel variant will further support Triton sales and the model's continued growth in the Australian market."

The new automatic diesel Triton range boasts all the features of its ML Triton predecessors - striking exterior styling, spacious interior, ride and handling, excellent economy and a comprehensive list of safety features - while still retaining Triton's trademark attributes of reliability and toughness.

In designing the Triton range, Mitsubishi recognised a shift in the utility market towards the separation of two distinct segments - customers requiring a workhorse with the basic functions of a utility for commercial applications, and those requiring a more stylish utility for recreational activities. Triton was designed to fulfil these different requirements and delivers the goods in a reliable and comfortable package.

With these diverse customer needs in mind - as well as the fact that utility drivers traditionally spend more time in their vehicles and cover more kilometres in pursuit of their business or leisure activities - Mitsubishi recognised the need for advanced safety features in the Triton range. Automatic diesel Triton models receive all the standard benefits from the ML Triton line-up, including Realised Impact Safety Evolution body structure (RISE), driver and front passenger SRS airbags, seat belt pre-tensioners and ABS with EBD (optional on GLX models).

And with so many hard kilometres to cover, a comprehensive manufacturer's warranty is all-important. Mitsubishi meets this demand with its industry-leading five year/130,000 whole vehicle warranty, backed up by its ten year/160,000 km power train warranty and a five year/unlimited km roadside assistance package.

The automatic diesel Triton will be available in four-wheel drive models only, in both single and double cab body styles, and in three feature-packed specification levels:

• Triton 4x4 GLX Cab Chassis or Utility
• Triton 4x4 GLX Double Cab
• Triton 4x4 GLX-R Double Cab
• Triton 4x4 GLS Double Cab

Standard appointments for automatic-diesel GLX models include air-conditioning, power windows, central locking with remote keyless entry, variable intermittent windscreen wipers, 16 inch steel wheels and AM/FM Radio/CD tuner with MP3 compatibility.

GLX-R models add a rear sports bar, nudge bar, side steps, privacy glass, 16 inch alloy wheels, carpet floor covering and mats with GLX-R logo, Titanium-look and chrome interior accents and Bluetooth hands free phone operation.

The range-topping GLS model includes all these features (except nudge bar and logo carpet mats) and also boasts external side protection moulding, automatic air conditioning, power driver's seat and full leather seat trim.

Pricing (RRP) for the automatic diesel four-wheel drive Triton line-up ranges from $35,690 for the GLX Cab Chassis or utility, $41,690 for the GLX Double Cab, $46,990 for the GLX-R Double Cab and $51,990 for the luxurious GLS Double Cab.

According to Robert McEniry, the Sports Utilities market has seen phenomenal growth in the last ten years. "In 1997, sports utilities accounted for around 9% of the 4x4 pick-up segment."