INFOTAINMENT
This isn’t VW’S latest and greatest system, but it’s still a lot better than the L200’s. It’s easier to use and quicker to respond, plus there are physical shortcut buttons anking the screen that are much easier to hit while driving than the touch-sensitive equivalents in the L200.you get Apple Carplay and Android Auto smartphone mirroring as standard, although the voice control function isn’t much cop. considering a pick-up purely for the potential tax perks (we’ll come onto those) and you actually plan on using it as a workhorse, how do these two compare? Well, in terms of numbers, the L200 has the edge. It can tow more (3500kg versus 3100kg), carry more weight in its load bay (1150kg versus 1070kg) and has more ground clearance (205mm versus 192mm) to help it clamber over obstacles.
Thanks largely to its all-terrain tyres, the L200 can handle muddy tracks more adroitly, too. However, the Amarok feels altogether more composed when you’re carrying a hefty weight in its load bay or towing a big load.
Mitsubishi L200 vs Volkswagen Amarok
BEHIND THE WHEEL Driving position, visibility, build quality
As you might expect, you sit suitably far from the road in both of our contenders, looking down on not only hatchbacks and estates but also a good number of SUVS.
The Amarok has a more comfortable driving position, though, thanks to its more supportive seat and – if you stump up an extra £168 – adjustable lumbar support. Lower back support is lacking in the L200 and, due to the relationship between its steering wheel, seat and pedals, you won’t have to be that tall to find you’ve slid the driver’s seat all the way back and still wish it would go a bit farther.
Mind you, the L200’s seat has electric adjustment, whereas you have to move the Amarok’s using bicep power unless you fork out an extra £1320. Thanks to its squarer and taller windows, the Amarok is slightly easier to see out of, but while both cars have front and rear parking sensors, the Amarok makes do with a regular rear-view camera, whereas the L200 has a 360deg camera to help you avoid obstacles.
You wouldn’t expect a wealth of soft-touch, upmarket materials in a commercial vehicle, but neither interior feels like it was inspired by the reduced section at Poundland. The Amarok goes the whole hog with full leather to the L200’s half-leather, and the hide on its steering wheel feels that bit softer and plusher.
SPACE AND PRACTICALITY Front space, rear space, seating exibility, boot
Both pick-ups are known as double cabs; this essentially means they have rear doors and rear seats. Taller adults sitting in the back of the L200 might find their heads brushing the roof lining, but
COMPARISON
WHAT THEY WILL COST
Buy this car at whatcar.com/new-car-deals
Volkswagen Amarok
For Heaps better to drive; surprisingly fast; bigger load bay; better driving position
Against Poor safety provisions; too pricey to buy and run; you’ll still need to add options
Recommended options Adjustable lumbar support (£168)