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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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