Our Vans: Mitsubishi L200 2.4 MIVEC
18 May 2016: Going tow-to-tow with the opposition
The Details
| Current mileage | 2109 |
|---|---|
| Claimed economy | 42.8mpg |
| Actual economy | 32.3mpg |
I've moaned about the L200's lack of refinement. Groaned at its annoying driver aids and muttered some unrepeatable words each time I've looked at the fuel economy. However, in terms of practicality and all-round load lugging ability, I have no complaints.
When it comes to work, the Mitsubishi L200 is a heavyweight. In fact, when fully laden and hooked up to a trailer, it will shift 4.1 tonnes. That's a heck of a lot and - if used for business - would require a tachograph. It really is a workhorse in every sense, but how does it compare to the competition?
Most modern pick-ups will easily tow in excess of two tonnes, but the L200 takes this up a notch with 3.1 tonnes. That's equal to the Volkswagen Amarok and almost half a tonne more than the outgoing Toyota Hilux. The L200 also gets a larger load area than the Amarok, although these is a twist the tale because the Volkswagen - like almost every pick-up on the market - is on the verge of being updated.
Indeed, from this summer the Amarok will get a new engine and 3.5 tonne towing capacity. There will also be a new Hilux - 3.5 tonnes - while the updated Ford Ranger will also tow an equal amount. Then there is the Nissan Navara, Isuzu D-Max, which will against take 3.5. So, perhaps the L200 isn't the benchmark for towing anymore, but it is still hugely capable with a one-tonne load bay and 3.1 tonne braked towing limit.
The L200's cabin has plenty of head and leg space for four adults
I've also been putting the L200 to use as people mover these past few weeks, with its four large, leather seats providing lots of comfort for four large adults. Last week I used the Mitsubishi as transport for myself and some friends to a music gig. Unlike other vehicles I've had on test, I didn't receive any of the usual gripes about lack of space or repeated requests to move my seat forward.
The cabin really has lots of space and the deep cushioning and leather finish to the seats really make it a good place to sit for a long period of time. On the downside, the comfy seats are offset against a poor ride, which gets rather bumpy when you’re not carrying anything in the load bay.
It's not all bad though, the L200 is a lot more refined than some of its rivals, with relatively hushed engine and road noise, which means you can have a conversation with your passengers and not have to shout to be heard. Fuel economy is improving slightly too - up to 32.3mpg - but still a long way short of Mitsubishi's official 42.8mpg.
Over the coming weeks and months, there will be a flurry of pick-up launches. A new Toyota Hilux is just around the corner, along with facelifted versions of the Volkswagen Amarok and Isuzu D-Max. Fiat is also launching the Fullback, which is actually based on the L200. Will the Mitsubishi stand firm against this commercial vehicle onslaught? Time will only tell.
« Earlier: Will the L200 really cover 700 miles on a single tank? Later: Show me the way to go chrome »
