Mitsubishi L200 pick-up review

Buying a Mitsubishi L200 pick-up

The Mitsubishi L200 pick-up is perhaps best known for its appearance in the famous Top Gear episode which saw Jeremy Clarkson and his co-hosts try and destroy one. Thankfully, they were no match for the tough L200, and the iconic pick-up soon became a popular choice for owners. Although the latest Mitsubishi L200 is now rivaled by pick-ups such as the Ford Ranger, Nissan Navara, and Volkswagen Amarok. So, if you are unsure of which to purchase, this Mitsubishi L200 pick-up review will take you through everything you need to know.

Cost

A variety of businesses are choosing pick-ups because of the large tax break available when using the vehicle for private mileage alongside commercial use. The majority of L200s are used for business use, so this pick-up is designed to be as economical as possible with an advanced common-rail turbo diesel engine. The engine has been expertly engineered with numerous weight-saving features such as MIVEC variable valve timing and an aluminum cylinder block.

For owners looking for fuel efficiency, the entry-level 4Life model offers an impressive 40.9mpg, with other trims closely following at 39.8mpg. The L200 is famous for its strong build and owners can expect minimal issues and low maintenance costs. To ensure owners are provided with complete peace of mind, Mitsubishi provides a five-year warranty and 12 years anti-corrosion guarantee.

Specs

In recent years, the utility vehicles on the road have undergone a makeover, with a variety of high-spec interior options similar to the luxury SUVs. The higher-spec models are fitted with features such as a large touch screen, DAB radio, and lane departure warning, although entry-level options are more than adequately equipped with clear controls and well-finished detailing. There is also a simple rotary dial to control the four-wheel-drive system just behind the gear knob, which allows for easy switching between two and four-wheel drive as well as low and high range.

To the exterior, there are three body options, from the entry-level two-door utility version to the full five-seater double-cab pick-up. For drivers looking for a comfortable cabin, the L200 will easily accommodate tall adults, whether you opt for the Single-Cab, Club-Cab or Double-Cab options. Careful attention has been paid to the small details to provide the L200 with a great road presence and tough image, yet complete practicality and comfort.

Practicality

The L200 is designed primarily for use as a commercial vehicle, so the generous load bay will carry over one tonne, with a maximum towing capacity of 3,500kg. The length of the space varies according to cab size, but the long uniform shape allows each option to comfortably carry a European standard-sized pallet. The tailgate folds flat and is very simple to operate, especially for the Barbarian trim which includes tailgate dampers.

The vast range of load bay accessories will allow owners to tailor the L200 to meet their exact needs, with options including plastic floor liners, tonneau covers, and full glazed hard tops for an almost SUV-style finish. There is plenty of storage within the cabin itself with a deep central cubby, well-sized glovebox, large door pockets, a tool storage area, and flip-up cushions to the rear. When combined with the easily accessible features, it is clear that the L200 is ideal for owners looking for a spacious utility vehicle that is still comfortable for transporting the family.

Performance

The latest generation L200 is fitted with the high-tech 2.4-litre MIVEC diesel engine, which is designed to offer this pick-up an edge on performance and efficiency when compared to its rivals. The entry-level option offers 151bhp and 380Nm of torque, with a 12.2 second sprint time. But, if you are looking for more power, other models offer 178bhp and 430Nm of torque, with an impressive 0-62mph time of 10.4 seconds. Through careful design, the engines all meet the first stage of the new Euro 6 emissions regulations, so will provide great efficiency for their owners.

For many owners of pick-ups, the 4x4 system is an important component, so the latest L200 is available with a variety of options. The entry models are equipped with the part-time Easy Select 4x4 system which needs to be engaged manually. For owners looking for a responsive system, the higher-spec models feature the Super Select active 4x4 system, which is also fitted in the Mitsubishi Shogun. This system is designed to automatically send the required amount of power to the right wheels during both on and off-road driving. For tough off-road situations, there are two further modes that will lock the centre differential to either high or low range gears.

Reliability and safety

The Mitsubishi L200 is famed for its reliability and the latest design features a reinforced chassis and stronger joints between the frame, load bay, and cabin. Mitsubishi has paid careful attention to the design of the vehicle’s safety equipment, which has positioned the L200 as a leader in its class. The stability and traction control system is designed to provide each wheel with an individual braking system to correct steering and accurately divert power where needed.

For companies looking to improve levels of safety for their fleet, the L200 has an adjustable speed limiter and trailer stability assist feature fitted as standard. When a trailer is attached to the vehicle, the stability control system adjusts its control to take into account the trailer, improving handling and driver safety. The host of features enabled the pick-up to score four out of five stars in the Euro NCAP safety tests.

If you would like to find out more about the Mitsubishi L200 pick-up, we have a showroom in Harlow, where our experienced team will be available to answer your queries. If you are looking for a Mitsubishi L200 van we have a range of contract hire options, alongside a selection of used Mitsubishi L200 models, please contact us today for more information.