Mitsubishi L200 2019 Review
There are some strong contenders in the world of
pickups. The Mitsubishi L200 is one of them, having evolved gently over an
impressive four decades to keep up. Like most, it also aims to bridge the gap
between work tool and lifestyle vehicle. Now, there’s the new Series 6, which
increases capability and adds extra equipment to make it easier to live with.
And this week, we have properly put it through its paces.
The new L200 has certainly received some serious
cosmetic work, adopting the latest family face and even incorporating the
company’s signature tail lights. Chunky squared-off wheel arches define the
stance and there is a new engine beneath the higher bonnet. Beyond the visual
changes, there are significant structural improvements and greater use of
technology too.
Specifications
Shape-wise, the L200 is offered with single or
double cab. Trim levels span the entry 4Life, via macho names such as Warrior
and Challenger to the ultimate Barbarian and Barbarian X. The single cab model
is offered in the 4Life specification only.
The entry 4Life trim has all the essentials,
including all-wheel-drive and rear differential lock, brake assist and hill
start assist and a proper spare wheel mounted beneath. It also has Bluetooth
connectivity for phones.
We tested the top Barbarian X, which is as
well-equipped as many SUVs. There are visual changes, with additional chrome
finishing all-round and 18-inch alloy wheels. For practicality and convenience,
you’ll find keyless entry, leather upholstery, full-sized infotainment screen
with smartphone mirroring and 360 degree parking cameras. LED headlamps, gas
strut-damped tailgate, and off-road mode all add to the apeal. The neon blue
‘Barbarian X’ illuminated sill covers are rather gaudy, but do a good job of
shedding light on a dark night.
Interior
Inside, the L200 feels much like an SUV; in fact
there are plenty of components in common with Mitsubishi’s Outlander. It is a
good improvement over the previous model and despite its utilitarian nature,
materials are closer to family vehicles than the coarser truck interiors of
old.
The engine
The Series 6 L200 has the new 2,268cc turbo
diesel engine, using AdBlue to keep the NOx emissions down. It is a pleasingly
gruff engine at low revs - which suits the pickup well - but extend the revs
and it does become rather raucous. Maximum torque is achieved at 2,000 rpm
though, so thankfully there’s rarely any need to push it too hard. It provides
a modest 150PS in power but an ample 400Nm of torque, giving the L200 a
respectable 3.5 tonne towing capacity.
On the road
The comfortable seats and elevated forward view
make the L200 a good place to be. Steering feels a tad under-geared -
especially when stepping straight from a car - but it’s easy to get used to and
is fairly precise given the L200’s Brunellian underpinnings.
The now six-speed automatic gearbox tested is
smooth and effective. And despite the L200’s size and weight, it still returned
20s mpg around town in stop-start traffic and low 30s on open roads and
motorways which isn’t bad at all.
There is no getting away from the fact the L200
(like its rivals) is built on a separate ladder chassis, but it has been
strengthened in the Series 6 and suspension refinements have significantly
improved its ride. With 300kg of logs in the back, though, it rode smoother
still. And this is what the L200 is all about: getting on with the job in hand.
Summing up
The latest L200 is a great balance of capability
and refinement. For those using it as a work horse, it is an easy choice and
there’s very little to fault. For anyone picking an L200 for lifestyle and
adventure, it’s good too, although don’t expect it to ride quite like an SUV.
About the Author
Andrew is a freelance motoring journalist with a background in IT and the vehicle leasing industry. With a lifetime’s passion for all things automotive, he can be found behind the wheel of everything from vans to supercars. In addition to reviewing the latest vehicles and technology, Andrew also runs a couple of classic British motors. He lives at the edge of the Peak District with his son and cat.
Andrew Wright @theMotorWriter
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