The legendary Mitsubishi L200 lives again, writes Robin Roberts (and WheelsWithinWales).
After months of anticipation, the seventh generation of this global best selling pick up is now available in the UK and it’s more powerful, economical, better specified, comfortable and capable than ever before.
In five-seat double cab layout it can be bought in Titan or higher Barbarian trim with a commercial version to come later this year.
The top spec model has the new super select 4WD-II with shift on the fly permitting selection of full-time all wheel drive on any surface if the usual rear wheel drive is not enough. Seven drive modes cover any possible terrain, it carries over a tonne and will pull 3.5 tonne in Barbarian trim.
A new twin-turbo 2.4 litre diesel engine packs a punch of 204 PS with 470 Nm (347 lb.ft) of torque through six automatic gears.
The Titan costs from £36,295 and Barbarian begins at £39,995 before taxes while the commercials will be about £1,200 more in each case.
It will take 12.6 secs to reach 62 mph from standstill with a maximum of 111 mph and emits 222 g/km CO2 while returning about 33 mpg average.
“The launch of the all-new Mitsubishi L200 Series 7 in the UK marks an eagerly anticipated product arrival,” said Toby Marshall, Managing Director for Mitsubishi Motors in the UK.
The L200 has a strong heritage and appeal in a broad range of commercial, agricultural and leisure environments, and the all-new model is set to build on former series’ success.”
He added, “Both Titan and Barbarian double cab specifications deliver a robust new diesel powertrain, rugged good looks, spacious comfort but most importantly the accomplished prowess of the iconic Mitsubishi pickup. With the arrival of the L200 we look forward to affirming the strength and continuing appeal of the Mitsubishi marque in the UK.”
Mitsubishi stopped selling vehicles in Britain in 2021 but the International Motors group maintained a strong parts supply network and supported a nationwide after-sales and service operation, so it’s not having to build a completely new brand from scratch.
It has over 100 service outlets and some 60 new car sales showrooms will spring out of these for the L200 and upcoming Outlander SUV.
There are coil front springs and workmanlike leaf rear springs to take heavy loads and ease towing. The warranty is 5 years and insurance group is 49D.
We were able to try the latest L200 in a variety of situations including towing and manoeuvring, which it accomplished with ease as our Barbarian’s external cameras came in very useful easing into tight spaces with a long trailer.
Pick up was very smooth and the rig proved stable as well.
Off-road, the L200 did remarkably on standard tyres which tested its grip while the sophisticated traction assistance made starting on slopes and steep descents very safe and sure footed.
It can probably do more than most users would ever want to undertake.
VERDICT
In terms of price, performance and equipment, the seventh generation L200 is a big step forward into a market which has been waiting five years for its reappearance.
Text © Robin Roberts and WheelsWithinWales.