With proven off-roading credentials, reliable workhorse twin-turbo diesel engines, and a revised design inside and out, the new Triton is a compelling buy, considering it undercuts its major rivals for price. The nameplate has been around since the 1980s, with several generations of the ute topping best-selling lists throughout the years. And with a refined interior, improved comfort levels and new safety and infotainment features, it now doubles as a viable family vehicle.
Where the car outshines the competition is its agility off-road. Fitted with the Super Select II 4WD system, a lockable rear diff and selectable traction control, it provides sure footing on loose ground.
Missing from the factory package, though, is an appointed bull bar to keep the bodywork and drivetrain protected in minor and major scuffs, both on and off-road. While the parts are offered as standalone factory options or part of costlier accessory packs, the high cost is what puts off most Triton owners. Yes, the quality, fit and finish are there, but you can spend your hard-earned cash elsewhere.
Why Bull Bars for Your Triton?
Bull bars aren’t just reinforced metal tubing fitted to the front of your ute. They’re essential upgrades that serve multiple purposes. For anyone considering aftermarket Mitsubishi Triton bull bars and who frequently drives on a mix of asphalt and loose soil, the parts offer:
- Improved protection: Replacing the factory plastic bumpers with bull bars increases protection to vital engine and body parts in head-on collisions with wildlife, and minor scuffs in urban driving. Bull bars take the full impact of hits with kangaroos and larger animals, prevent damage from large boulders and stumps, and keep scratches and dents to a minimum in driveway or parking lot accidents.
- Enhanced approach angles: Anyone serious about off-roading knows the limits of front bumpers when tackling steeper inclines or getting out of deep ruts. Bull bars increase approach angles, making maneuvers in technical terrain easier.
- Platform for multiple accessories: There’s ample space for fitting numerous accessories. Look for bull bars with integrated winch cradles, and provisions to mount driving lights, CB antennas and recovery points, among other off-roading essentials.
- Higher resale value: If you’re thinking of selling an older MQ or MR Triton, then one fitted with a Triton bull bar (and in good condition) will net you a higher resale price.
- Looks: Bull bars mean business. And they’re the parts that make your Triton stand out. Choose from a range of designs and bull bar types, and consider treated metal to last against corrosion and bad weather.
Bull Bar Types
Designs vary based on the level of protection and practicality you’re after. Triple hoops offer the best protection, with durable, thick-walled tubed hoops protecting the headlights and the main tube sitting higher to shield the grille, radiator and engine. The wider coverage also provides more space for several accessories without feeling too cramped. The rugged look pairs well with the rest of the vehicle design.
Single hoops feature a single hoop covering the radiator grille, while still showcasing the rest of the vehicle. They’re lighter and smaller and sit somewhat lower than full triple hoops, but still provide adequate protection on lighter trails and minor animal strikes. Moreover, the less aggressive look works better in urban settings. While the bars forego essentials like side brush bars, they’re a sound option for mixed, on and some off-road driving.
Winch bars have integrated winch cradles, making winch installation easier and faster without the need for cumbersome workarounds. Single-piece bull bars in sheet plate are a newer design, again with a fitted winch cradle. These offer a more seamless profile, sitting lower than older hooped designs. Most Triton owners regularly seen in the Outback have triple hoops with fitted winch cradles to make the most out of the balanced protection and practicality.
Main Buying Considerations
Materials and Finish
Steel is the traditionalist’s option, providing the highest strength and impact resistance, with improved protection in animal strikes. It’s also affordable and mainly offered as triple or single hoop designs. Consider steel bars that have been pre-treated and powder-coated for improved scratch and rust protection. Steel also features as the durable material option in additions like roof racks to carry all your gear on longer Outback trips.
Aluminium benefits your ute with lower weight, inherent corrosion resistance and polished, good looks. The material does lack strength when compared to steel (for the same weight), but it provides decent protection in most driving scenarios. The lower weight can also be a bonus, considering the needed modifications (strengthened springs and shocks) in heavier steel triple hoops. It also requires less maintenance, keeping its good looks for longer.
ADR Compliance
Choose Mitsubishi Triton bull bars that have passed rigorous testing and meet ADR compliance. This means the bull bars don’t protrude too far out and won’t interfere with airbag activation or the operation of safety systems that rely on cameras and radar.
Features and Fit
Lastly, consider built-in features that boost value. For serious off-roading and technical trails, look to integrated high-lift jack and recovery points (rated for twice the dry weight of your Triton), fully-featured winch cradles, and machined brackets for driving and off-road lights. Full mounting kits also ensure easy installation while meeting OEM and regulatory requirements.