Honda to Introduce New Body-on-Frame Bakkie in 2028
The Japanese automaker will utilize a Mitsubishi platform to build a new right-hand drive vehicle in Thailand.
Updated on Oct. 21, 2026 in Trucks
Live Poll
Will the upcoming Honda bakkie successfully gain market share against established rivals by 2028?
Honda has reached an agreement with Mitsubishi to produce a new double cab bakkie featuring a body-on-frame design. The vehicle is scheduled to be introduced in 2028 and will be manufactured in Thailand.
Why it matters
This collaboration allows Honda to expand its bakkie portfolio using existing production infrastructure. By leveraging an established platform, the company aims to enter new markets with a dedicated right-hand drive offering.
The new bakkie will feature a 2.4-litre turbodiesel engine built on a body-on-frame platform. This is a significant shift from the Honda Ridgeline, which has been in production since 2005.
The players
Honda
Honda is a global automotive manufacturer known for producing cars, motorcycles, and power equipment.
Mitsubishi
Mitsubishi is a Japanese automotive corporation that produces a wide range of vehicles, including the Triton bakkie.
The details
The new vehicle will be produced in a right-hand drive configuration at a Mitsubishi facility in Thailand. The project relies on the Mitsubishi Triton platform to provide the base for Honda's latest double cab offering.
Timeline
Honda began production of the Ridgeline bakkie in 2005.
The new Honda bakkie is set to be introduced in 2028.
Roadmap
This collaboration marks a shift for Honda as it moves to utilize established external platforms to accelerate its entry into the global bakkie market. By adopting the Mitsubishi Triton platform, the company positions itself to compete more effectively against rivals in the mid-size truck segment.
Consumers in potential markets such as South Africa may gain access to a new right-hand drive bakkie option by 2028. Buyers should monitor official updates regarding regional availability and final pricing as the launch date approaches.
The takeaway
This partnership highlights an increasing industry trend toward collaborative platform sharing to reduce development costs for niche vehicle segments. Prospective buyers can expect more details on market availability as Honda finalizes its production roadmap for the new bakkie.
Further reading
For more information on the evolving truck market, visit our Trucks section.
Live Poll
Will the upcoming Honda bakkie successfully gain market share against established rivals by 2028?
