Colorado vs Triton – Which Ute Delivers More for Kiwi Drivers?

If there’s one thing Kiwi drivers don’t mess around with, it’s their utes. And two names that have earned their stripes across Aotearoa are the Holden Colorado and the Mitsubishi Triton.

 

The Colorado might’ve left the new car showroom, but it still has a serious presence in the used market. The Triton? It’s one of the best value new utes going around. But which one suits Kiwi roads, work, and weekend life best in 2025? Let’s find out.

 

Performance & Towing

Holden Colorado:

With a 2.8L Duramax turbo-diesel under the bonnet, the Colorado delivers 147kW and 500Nm of torque, one of the punchiest powertrains in its class. Whether you're pulling a digger or launching a boat at a dodgy ramp, that torque makes life easy. It also tows up to 3.5 tonnes (braked) and holds its own in steep terrain or soft paddocks.

 

Mitsubishi Triton:

The Triton’s 2.4L MIVEC turbo-diesel pushes out 133kW and 430Nm, which is tidy but not quite Colorado-level brawny. It still tows a respectable 3.1 tonnes and features Mitsubishi’s clever Super Select II 4WD system, which gives it a smooth switch between 2H, 4H, and 4HLc, even on sealed roads.

 

Verdict:

If raw power and towing capacity are key, the Colorado edges ahead. But the Triton’s off-road smarts and refined drivetrain offer a great balance for everyday drivers and tradies alike.

 

Interior, Safety & Infotainment

Holden Colorado:

Practical and no-fuss. The Colorado interior isn’t flashy, but it’s functional. You get the basics, touchscreen infotainment with smartphone connectivity, decent cabin space, and hard-wearing materials that suit work life. Safety features include AEB and a reversing camera, but you won’t find the modern driver assists that newer utes now come standard with.

 

Mitsubishi Triton:

The Triton gets the edge in tech and comfort. Recent models feature Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, dual-zone climate, and active safety features like lane departure warning, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. It’s also more refined inside, with a slicker dash and tighter turning radius for city driving.

 

Verdict:

The Triton wins here for its updated safety tech and modern cabin feel. But if you prefer a simple, work-focused setup, the Colorado still delivers. Add a rubber car mat for maximum protection from outside grime and mud.

 

Running Costs & Reliability

Holden Colorado:

Even though Holden has exited the NZ market, Colorado parts are still easy to find and well-supported by independent mechanics. Reliability is solid across the board, and the engine’s known for handling high mileage if serviced regularly.

 

Mitsubishi Triton:

The Triton offers great long-term value, low maintenance costs, strong reliability, and access to Mitsubishi’s dealership network. Later models also came with generous warranties, making it a safe bet for cost-conscious buyers.

 

Verdict:

Triton takes the win for lower servicing costs and ongoing support. But the Colorado’s proven platform and local parts availability keep it competitive.

 

Price & Value in New Zealand

Holden Colorado:

On the used market, the Colorado is excellent bang for your buck. Expect to pay around $30–$40K for a tidy 2018–2020 LTZ or Z71. That nets you a powerful drivetrain and serious capability, perfect for buyers who don’t need the latest gadgets.

 

Mitsubishi Triton:

A newer 2020–2023 Triton VRX or GLS will set you back $35K–$45K, but you're paying for updated tech, smoother ride, and remaining warranty. Even base models pack a solid spec list, making it one of the better value new utes out there.

 

Verdict:

The Colorado wins if you want max power for your dollar. The Triton wins for peace of mind, warranty coverage, and a newer kit.

 

Which Ute Should You Drive Away In?

If your ute life leans heavily into towing or hauling, the Colorado is still a top-shelf choice. It’s tough, torquey, and proven on Kiwi roads (and off them). If you’re after a ute that handles daily driving as well as light off-roading, the Triton is hard to beat. It might not have the grunt of the Colorado, but it makes up for it in value, safety, and refinement.

 

Essentially, choose Colorado for brawn. Triton for brains. Whichever ute you go with, consider upgrading your rig with car accessories from RubberTree to keep it in good nick.