Honda teams up with Mitsubishi, to rebadge Triton for ASEAN market, launching as soon as 2028

Honda and Mitsubishi Motors have officially signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), marking their first-ever mutual vehicle supply collaboration.

The new MoU will see Honda develop an all-new Honda-badged pick-up truck based on the Mitsubishi Triton, slated to debut in the ASEAN market by 2028.

Honda's Strategic Move into the Pick-up Truck Segment 

Completing the model line-up: For the longest time, Honda has had zero presence in Southeast Asia's pick-up truck segment. This new tie-up with Mitsubishi allows Honda to introduce a pick-up into its line-up in the quickest and most cost-effective manner. 

Authentic, rugged capability: Serving as the donor vehicle, the Mitsubishi Triton is a proven ladder-frame workhorse highly regarded across Southeast Asia. This ensures that Honda's upcoming model will inherit genuine practicality, load-hauling capability, and off-road prowess.

For reference: Current Mitsubishi Triton

Furthermore, the current Mitsubishi Triton also lends its platform to Nissan, as the basis for the D27 generation Navara. 

A Mutually Beneficial Win-Win 

Boosting Thailand plant output: The all-new pick-up will roll off Mitsubishi's assembly lines in Thailand, which will effectively optimise production volume and plant capacity utilisation.

Harnessing synergies: Following feasibility studies, both carmakers believe the tie-up will capitalise on mutual strengths, unlocking fresh growth opportunities in key regional markets.

Deepening Long-Term Strategic Partnerships 

Extension of the tri-party alliance: Back in August 2024, Honda, Mitsubishi, and Nissan had already inked a broader strategic partnership framework. 

Adapting to market shifts: With this first cross-badged vehicle project officially locked in, the three Japanese marques will continue to deepen ties, leveraging mutual product and technology assets to meet diverse regional demands and bolster competitiveness. 

Talking Points

Design differentiation: Industry watchers are keen to see how much of Honda's signature modern design language will make its way into the exterior styling and cabin of this new “H”-badged pick-up.

ASEAN pick-up truck battle heats up: With Honda throwing its hat into the ring, the fiercely competitive pick-up truck segment across Southeast Asia, including Malaysia, is set for a major shake-up. 

At present, official details regarding the vehicle's nameplate, specifications, and pricing remain under wraps, with more information expected closer to launch.