The Courier & Advertiser (Perth and Perthshire Edition)
Newest L200 picks up its game
Mitsubishi has sold more than 4.1 million L200 pick-up models since production started.
Now, the firm claims to have brought us the most advanced version of this model yet.
This “Series 5” version offers a ground-up redesign.
There’s only so much you can do to make a pick-up enjoyable to drive but Mitsubishi has made more effort in this regard this time round, conscious any L200 is likely to spend the majority of its time on tarmac.
This Series 5 version’s redesigned chassis is complemented by redeveloped suspension, plus there are new shock absorbing body mounts which soak up vibrations better than before and provide a quieter, more comfortable cabin. The new engine should impress too. Not only is it 30kg lighter than the old 2.5-litre unit (aiding handling and efficiency), it’s also more powerful and cleaner, too.
With 178bhp and 430Nm of torque, the 2.4-litre MIVEC turbodiesel unit provides this improved L200 with bestin-class performance, the 0-62mph time reduced by two seconds to 10.4s.
As before, the L200 can be driven in either 2WD or 4WD on tarmac or off road. This vehicle can also tow up to 4.1 tonnes and there’s a segment-leading tight turning circle too.
L200 pricing sits in the £20,000 to £24,000 bracket, which, as expected, makes it competitive in its segment.
There are four different specifications; the entry-level 4Life version, the Titan, the Warrior and the top-spec Barbarian model.
Transmission-wise, there’s a choice of either a six-speed manual or five-speed automatic with sport mode.
The Series 5 model changes have improved this vehicle in all key areas; performance, economy, emissions and carrying capacity.
Of all the updates though, it’s the improvements to driving dynamics that most potential owners will notice most.
This vehicle was always good off road. On-tarmac, though, like many pick-ups, it wasn’t that easy to live with.
This latest generation version is far better in this regard, offering less body roll, a more comfortable ride and better refinement.
As a result, it’s easier to envisage as an only car if you need a tough working vehicle for the week that can also transport the family around at weekends.