Mitsubishi L200 (2015 – 2019) Review

Mitsubishi L200 (2015 – 2019) At A Glance

3/5

+Versatile pick-up with more car-like handling than before, one-tonne payload capacity, extremely capable off-road, 2.4 diesel is more efficient than the old 2.5.

-Load bed isn't as large as some of its rivals, ride can get uncomfortable on rough roads, five-speed auto is noisy.

The L200 is more an evolution than a revolution of Mitsubishi’s rough 'n' ready pick-up truck. As a result, the fifth-generation L200 is based on a heavily revised version of its predecessor’s double cab chassis.

It does, however, add a much needed dose of modernisation. This means the latest L200 retains its versatile load capacity, while offering lower running costs and some improvements in refinement and safety.

Power comes from a powerful 2.4-litre diesel that's more economical and cleaner than the old 2.5 unit, with the 150PS version returning an official 44.1mpg. The four-cylinder engine also produces more power, with the 180PS version producing 430Nm of torque and returning a claimed 42.8mpg. At launch, the 2.4 diesel was Euro5, but an engine update in mid-2016 provided Euro6 compliance. 

The maximum payload is almost identical to the old L200, 1045kg, while the towing limit at launch is 3.1 tonnes. From January 2018 the L200 was upgraded to increase its towing ability to 3.5 tonnes.

At launch, the L200 was limited to the double cab bodystyle. In 2016 Mitsubishi added single and club cab variants to the range. The quality of the cab has been improved, which means it's better suited for long trips, with better sound proofing and all-round comfort. All of the seats get thicker side bolsters and upper leg support, which makes them comfortable for long trips, while the spacious interior makes the L200 a comfortable fit for four adults. 

The L200 also feels a lot more composed on the road than before, with reduced body lean in the corners and a much better ride on the motorway. Indeed, the latest L200 is surprisingly hushed at high speeds, which makes it a pleasant place to be on long trips. A new six-speed gearbox is also standard, which means engine noise is kept down.  

That said, the suspension is still vulnerable to rough A roads and can get a bit bumpy. Pot holes are also a weak point, causing a sharp judder that reverberates through the cabin with alarming regularity. 

Compared to its pick-up rivals, the L200 has moved up the rankings when it comes to all-round ability and comfort. It has a useful load capacity and is surprisingly agile at low speeds thanks to its small turning circle and commanding driving position. It's just a pity the improvements are not extended to the single and club cab models, which would extend the load capacity even further. 

Long Term Test - Mitsubishi L200

Is the L200 pick-up as tough and practical as Mitsubishi claims? Honest John Vans tests one for six months to see how it copes with life as a daily driver.

Read the long term test here >>

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Ask Honest John

Can you recommend a 4x4 for towing?

"I need a car with 4wd in order to tow glider trailers out of farmer's muddy field. However, most of the driving will be on ordinary road so I need the option of 2wd. The Suzuki Jimny has 2wd/ 4wd high and low ratio and a 4wd high ratio with locked differentials and so fits the bill. However, it is small, noisy and under powered. I had a Toyota Rav 4 with supposedly 4wd but it got stuck towing a trailer in the snow. Can you advise which cars have the proper 4wd, (like the Jimny) and could pull a 2000kg glider trailer or a 4 berth caravan with a bit of comfort and could still get through mud and snow? I am looking for an automatic, second hand car with a maximum of 30,000 miles. Budget of less than £20,000. Any ideas? I am happy to consider a plug-in hybrid if it can tow. "
You will struggle to find a 'proper' 4x4 with selectable ratios and locking differentials in budget. All small-to-midsize SUVs have moved to a more economy-biased selectable all-wheel drive system. Other than the Jimny pretty much all of them are large SUVs or pick-up trucks that cost a bit more. That said, have you checked out the latest SsangYong Rexton? It's a proper 4x4 with plenty of SUV comfort and an automatic gearbox. There's also the Mitsubishi Shogun (very old-school but spacious and affordable) and the Toyota Land Cruiser (over-budget but probably the best proper 4x4 around). For pick-ups we'd be looking at the Mitsubishi L200 or Ford Ranger.
Answered by Lawrence Allan

Do any pick-ups in the UK have a rear window that can be opened?

"Is there a 4x4 pick-up where the rear window can open or be removed to allow access/comfort to a dog during travel?"
You can get a rear canopy for the load bed with this type of set-up. However, if you are talking about the actual cab of the pick-up, the answer is no. The Mitsubishi L200 Series 4 is the only model that I can think of with a rear window that opens, but the gap would isn't wide enough for a dog to get in and out.
Answered by Dan Powell

What's the best way to tackle a steep incline in a 4WD?

"I have a Mitsubishi L200. There is no 'hill descent' facility on this vehicle. To avoid excessive brake wear, would you suggest I select 'Sport Mode' and hold it in a low gear (if that is possible) or select 4L and creep down the gradient. Do the manufacturers have a recommended procedure for this operation?"
This is a very difficult question to answer, as it will ultimately depend on the off-road conditions. Yes, 4L is designed for inclines, by engaging both the front and rear wheels in the low-range and increasing engine braking. 4L is not designed for on-road use (it locks the wheels and limits the vehicle's agility. And you should not use the brakes on sharp and slippery inclines. If you do plan to take your L200 off-road regularly, it might be an idea to get some specialist driving lessons. This will allow you to make the most of the L200 and its excellent 4x4 system. It will also ensure you stay safe when tackling really challenging conditions.
Answered by Dan Powell

Is the Mitsubishi L200 pick-up any good?

"Is the Mitsubishi L200 pick-up any good?"
Very robust mechanically, with a hard wearing interior and good levels of equipment. It's great off-road too and has a huge towing capacity, but the double cab’s load bed is short (unless you find a long bed version) and it drives fairly crude and unrefined compared to a conventional van. For our full review and used buying guide for the Mitsubishi L200, see: https://vans.honestjohn.co.uk/van-reviews/mitsubishi/l200-2006/ For the top 10 cheapest pick-ups for insurance, see: https://vans.honestjohn.co.uk/insurance/top-10s/top-10-cheapest-pick-ups-to-insure/
Answered by Dan Powell
More Questions

What does a Mitsubishi L200 (2015 – 2019) cost?