Honda already sells a pickup truck in North America, but the Ridgeline’s unibody construction makes it a different proposition from traditional workhorses like the Toyota Hilux. That distinction is about to change, as Honda has officially confirmed plans for a rugged body-on-frame pickup.
The Japanese automaker has signed a memorandum of understanding with Mitsubishi to develop a new truck based on the Mitsubishi Triton. The agreement gives Honda access to an established platform without having to engineer an entirely new vehicle from scratch.
Unlike the Ridgeline, which prioritizes everyday comfort and practicality, the upcoming model will use the Triton’s ladder-frame construction. That should give it a stronger foundation for demanding work, challenging terrain, and heavier towing duties.
However, American buyers shouldn’t get too excited just yet. Honda has confirmed that the new pickup is primarily intended for Southeast Asian markets, with sales scheduled to begin in 2028.
Mitsubishi Triton Underpinnings
The new Honda pickup will be based on the sixth-generation Mitsubishi Triton, also known as the L200 in certain markets. The truck already offers a proven body-on-frame platform, four-wheel-drive capability, and several powertrain options.
Depending on the market, the Triton is available with 2.4-liter gasoline and turbodiesel engines. Its range-topping twin-turbo diesel produces up to 201 horsepower and 347 lb-ft of torque, although Honda hasn’t confirmed which engines its version will use.
A Proper Workhorse With Serious Capability
The Triton can be equipped with Mitsubishi’s Super Select 4WD-II system, a locking rear differential, and multiple selectable driving modes. In certain configurations, it can also tow up to 7,716 pounds.
Whether Honda will offer all these features remains unknown, as the company hasn’t revealed specifications or styling details. They also haven’t disclosed whether the truck will receive a distinctive design or simply be a Mitsubishi wearing Honda badges.
Why Honda Is Teaming Up With Mitsubishi
The partnership allows Honda to enter Southeast Asia’s competitive pickup market without the substantial investment required for an entirely new platform. Mitsubishi, meanwhile, stands to benefit from increased production volumes at its manufacturing facility in Thailand.
The agreement also reflects growing cooperation among Japanese automakers as they look for ways to reduce development costs. Sharing existing vehicles offers a relatively straightforward way to expand product lineups.
Don’t Expect It In American Showrooms
Honda plans to introduce the Mitsubishi-based pickup in ASEAN markets in 2028, but hasn’t announced availability elsewhere. A United States launch is unlikely, particularly given the tariffs imposed on imported light trucks.
For American customers, the unibody Ridgeline remains Honda’s pickup offering. Still, the upcoming Triton-based model shows that Honda is willing to embrace traditional truck engineering when the market demands it.