Mitsubishi Motors Corporation has confirmed its participation in the upcoming 2025 Asia Cross Country Rally (AXCR), with Team Mitsubishi Ralliart set to compete in the gruelling event using a specially modified Triton pickup truck. The rally, which will take place this August, will span across Thailand and Cambodia, marking the event’s 30th anniversary with an extended course and tougher conditions.
The updated Triton rally car, built to T1 cross-country specifications, was unveiled today at the 46th Bangkok International Motor Show. Featuring a striking new livery, the vehicle has been upgraded with improved engine durability, refined chassis tuning, and additional enhancements designed to boost its endurance and competitiveness. Team Mitsubishi Ralliart has set its sights on reclaiming the AXCR title, which it last won in 2022.
Aiming for Redemption
In the 2024 AXCR, Mitsubishi entered four Tritons, which showcased improved handling and performance to compete against high-displacement rivals. Thai driver Chayapon Yotha had taken the overall lead by Leg 4, securing a significant 20-minute advantage. However, an engine failure forced him to retire, dashing the team’s championship hopes.
For the 2025 edition, the rally will be even more demanding, increasing from six to eight days and covering approximately 2,500km—an additional 500 km compared to last year. Mitsubishi has focused on further refining the Triton’s durability and overall performance to withstand the extended rally conditions, which will feature mountainous terrains, dense forests, and river crossings.
New Livery Reflects Ralliart’s Identity
The Triton rally car’s refreshed design embodies Team Mitsubishi Ralliart’s motorsport spirit. Its dominant red colour symbolizes energy and passion, while a digital sandstorm graphic extends across the front and sides, representing the swirling dust trails kicked up during competition. The bold placement of the Ralliart logo further reinforces Mitsubishi’s commitment to high-performance motorsports.
Aiming for Victory in a Tougher AXCR
Team Director Hiroshi Masuoka expressed confidence in the Triton’s potential, reflecting on last year’s strong performance before the unfortunate mechanical failure. He emphasised that the team has worked to enhance the truck’s durability and reliability, ensuring it can sustain peak performance throughout the rally’s increased distance and intensity. The team is determined to secure its first overall victory in three years.
AXCR 2025: A Tougher Challenge Ahead
The AXCR is the largest cross-country rally in the ASEAN region, and its 30th edition promises to be one of the most challenging yet. The event will begin with a ceremonial start on August 8 in Pattaya, Thailand, before the competition officially commences on August 9. The rally will take competitors north to Nakhon Ratchasima, then south to Chanthaburi, before crossing into Cambodia on August 14. The gruelling journey will conclude in Phnom Penh on August 16.
With an extended course featuring a mix of rough terrains, river crossings, and dense forests, AXCR 2025 will push both drivers and machines to their limits. Mitsubishi Motors and Team Mitsubishi Ralliart are ready to take on the challenge, with their sights set firmly on reclaiming the championship title.
