On August 16, 2025, the Mitsubishi Ralliart team claimed an impressive double victory, securing both the individual and team titles at the Asia Cross Country Rally (AXCR) 2025. It was a grueling 2,316 km journey that pushed the team and their vehicles to the limit.
This is the second time that the Mitsubishi Triton pickup truck and its racing team have conquered the AXCR, following their first triumph in 2022.
This year’s AXCR kicked off in Pattaya, Thailand, and took the racers through treacherous terrain before finishing in Khao Yai and returning to Pattaya. The course presented a range of challenges, including rough, muddy, and flooded roads, as well as sharp rocks and dangerous steep climbs.
From the very first stages, the Mitsubishi Ralliart team displayed remarkable endurance and strategic thinking. They stayed close to their rivals, biding their time for the perfect moment to make their move. In Stage 5, considered the most challenging of the rally, Katsuhiko Taguchi took the lead, finishing with an impressive time of 3 hours, 14 minutes, and 4 seconds, giving the team a significant advantage.
Due to safety concerns, Stages 4 and 6, which would have taken the racers through Cambodia, were canceled. This intensified the competition in the final two stages. At the end of Stage 7, Chayapon Yotha of the Mitsubishi Ralliart team took the overall lead, establishing a 10-minute and 12-second gap between himself and the closest competitor.
In the final stage, Chayapon Yotha’s Triton encountered a technical issue. However, thanks to the swift response of the technical team, the vehicle was quickly back on the course and crossed the finish line safely. With a total time of 16 hours, 15 minutes, and 12 seconds, Chayapon Yotha was crowned the individual champion.
The other two Mitsubishi Ralliart drivers, Katsuhiko Taguchi and Kazuto Koide, finished in 5th and 22nd places, respectively, securing the team’s victory in the team classification of the AXCR 2025.
This triumph not only showcases the unwavering determination of the Mitsubishi Ralliart team but also serves as a testament to the toughness, agility, and superior performance of the Mitsubishi Triton pickup truck.
The Triton, in its sixth generation, is equipped with a powerful Diesel MIVEC Bi-Turbo 2.4L engine (code 4N16), an improved chassis and suspension system, 7 diverse driving modes, and the Super Select 4WD-II system. These features allow the Triton to excel in harsh conditions while maintaining safety and stability at all times.
AXCR is recognized as one of the toughest cross-country rallies in Asia, attracting top racing teams and automakers. Mitsubishi Triton’s back-to-back victories in 2022 and 2025 demonstrate that it is not just an ordinary pickup truck for daily use, but a formidable contender capable of conquering the most extreme international racing challenges.
With this outstanding performance, the Mitsubishi Ralliart team has once again proven their prowess in off-road racing, reinforcing the image of the Triton as a resilient, powerful, and reliable vehicle that embodies the “Drive your Ambition” spirit pursued by Mitsubishi Motors.