Mitsubishi L200 (2015-2019) Review

A trusted workhorse, Mitsubishi's latest L200 features welcome creature comforts and boasts one of the most impressive towing capabilities

Strengths & weaknesses

  • Build quality and reliability
  • Can tow up to 3.5 tonnes
  • High-spec models have plenty of kit
  • Not as composed as new rivals to drive
  • Big buttons and switchgear feel dated
  • Only one engine

The Mitsubishi L200 has long been the rugged choice of vehicle for those that regularly tow heavy loads, haul bulky items and find themselves in areas that other 4x4s and SUVs struggle to reach.

As a result, previous generations have felt like they belong on a farm - not the most car-like but tough and built to last - with near-bulletproof reliability but the sort of interior comfort and finish that would makes a cheap Dacia Duster SUV look like a Rolls-Royce by comparison.

However, the UK's generous company car taxation law sees benefit-in-kind (BIK) tax set at a flat rate for double-cab pick-ups, irrespective of CO2 emissions or price. This means that more professional drivers are turning towards this mode of transport as an everyday set of wheels for the tax breaks.

To add to its hairy-chested credentials, an update of the model has seen much of its key towing points strengthened and reinforced, so it is now capable of towing up to 3.5 tonnes with three-axle braked trailers, while a towing capacity of up to 3.1 tonnes is possible with one- or two-axle braked trailers and drivers can haul 0.75 tonnes regardless of the number of axles or whether or not the trailer is braked.

It also has Trailer Stability Assist system, which works to brake independent wheels to restore stability should the trailer start to snake and otherwise be at risk of unsettling the car.

In addition to its enhanced towing capability, the Mitsubishi L200 also offers a bed payload of up to 590kg at its maximum towing weight, significantly greater than that offered by many of its rivals.

But, like the gnarled hands of a stonemason, strength and steadfastness come at a price. This is best highlighted by the somewhat archaic rigid, heavy-duty leaf spring suspension at the rear of the L200, which is great for hauling a max payload of over a tonne but doesn't exactly have it gliding over bumps and imperfections in the road.

Opt for the more luxurious Barbarian or Warrior spec models and the interior benefits from a leather finish, while Mitsubishi's latest seven-inch touchscreen media system sits in the centre of a neat and fuss-free dashboard. There are also plenty of USB inputs, while the largest double cab models offer cavernous space inside for up to five passengers to sit comfortably.

Unfortunately, engine choice is limited to just one 2.4-litre diesel that is offered with 178bhp and 430Nm in all models bar the very entry-level 4Life derivatives, which receive a 151bhp version that develops 380Nm of torque. Performance is strong and the L200 goes about its business without too much noise leaking into the interior, while Euro 6 compliance (without the need for AdBlue) ensures running costs are kept as low as possible.

The L200 boasts real off-road ability too, with more expensive models sporting clever all-wheel-drive technology that seamlessly shuffles power to the wheels with most grip. On top of this, there is the ability to lock differentials and engage a low-range gearbox if tackling really demanding terrain is on the agenda.

The closest rival in terms of capability and robustness is the Toyota Hilux, but the Volkswagen Amarok, the ever popular Ford Ranger and the latest Nissan Navara are also well worth consideration, although their more luxurious versions tend to be a lot more expensive. Double cab L200s when new were more than £4,000 less than a similarly specced Amarok.

The Isuzu D-Max and SsangYong Musso are both cheaper, and are offered in a similar range that spans 'sparse slogger' to 'SUV imitator' but the Mitsubishi L200 has a history and reliability reputation that very few can match, making them a trusted choice for people who need a seriously tough machine.

Key facts

Warranty Five-year/62,500 miles
Width 1785mm
Length 5080mm
Height 1780mm
Tax First year free, £250 per year thereafter
Bed size L 2265 x W 1470 x H 475mm

Best Mitsubishi L200 for...

Best for Families – Mitsubishi L200 Warrior Double Cab

The larger cab offers plenty of room for families, the more powerful engine is better suited to longer journeys and the interior is about as luxurious as the L200 gets.

Best for Performance – Mitsubishi L200 SVP II Double Cab

The most expensive model in the line-up receives chunky BF Goodrich all-terrain tyres, bespoke seats and contrast orange detailing to the exterior bodywork. It's certainly not for the shy and retiring buyer.

Best for Economy – Mitsubishi L200 4Life Single Cab

This entry-level model is as basic as the L200 model comes, with an interior and exterior designed for the farmyard, not the office car park. Still, it is cheap and exceptionally reliable.

History

2015 The fifth and latest generation L200 is released, boasting a new, more economical 2.4-litre diesel engine. On top of this, Mitsubishi introduced touchscreen entertainment systems and more luxurious interiors.
2019 A very mild refresh includes the latest Apple CarPlay and Android Auto entertainment software ahead of a more thorough model revision planned for late 2019.

Understanding Mitsubishi L200 names

Trim Warrior

There are four trim levels on offer, with the greatest choice available on the Double Cab models. Barbarian Black and Barbarian SVP II also offer a limited edition take on the top-level trim.

Engine 2.4-litre diesel

Just one diesel engine is offered here but it comes in two states of tune, depending on the cab and trim level.

Gearbox 6 speed manual

6-speed shows that the car has six gears. Entry-level 4Life and Titan models receive a six-speed manual, while a five-speed automatic gearbox is optional on Warrior level and above

Body style Double Cab

The Mitsubishi L200 is only sold in a pick-up truck body style but it does come in Single Cab, Club Cab and Double Cab variations.

Mitsubishi L200 Engines

2.4-litre Diesel

Only those looking for a barebones workhorse will likely encounter the lower-powered, 151bhp version of this 2.4-litre engine.

That's probably a good thing, because these smaller, lighter Single Cab models are better suited to short hauling hops anyway and those looking for a more comfortable daily ride will benefit from the added goodies offered by more expensive, double cab versions.

Also, these entry-level models receive a basic Easy Select part-time 4x4 set-up that can be engaged manually when required and features a locking rear differential.

In contrast, more expensive L200s get a much simpler to use Super Select active 4x4 system from the Shogun SUV. It can be set in rear-wheel-drive or four-wheel-drive modes for on-road driving, with the 4x4 system automatically sending power to the wheels with most grip when needed.

This system is only available with the more powerful version of the 2.4-litre engine, but this is the one we'd recommend, simply because the performance is far better suited to faster motorway overtaking and continuous higher speeds.

Despite its size and weight, drivers can expect to achieve between 37 and 40mpg if driven extremely carefully, while emissions of 186 to 196g/km in the largest vehicles keeps the annual running costs low.

 

Fuel

Mpg

Bhp

0 - 62mph

Top speed

2.4-litre 151hp

Diesel

40.9mpg

151bhp

12.2s

105mph

2.4-litre 178hp

Diesel

37.7mpg

178bhp

10.4s

111mph

Mitsubishi L200 Trims

4Life, Titan, Warrior and Barbarian

Entry-level models (badged 4Life) are unsurprisingly, kitted out to cope with the harsh realities of working life, so feature basic cloth seating, 16-inch steel wheels, manual air conditioning and manually adjustable headlamps. They are not exactly pretty to behold but they serve a purpose and the fact that Bluetooth connectivity, steering wheel audio controls, remote keyless entry, Trailer Stability Assist, electric windows and halogen headlights all come as standard is worth factoring in when comparing to rivals.

Move up to the Titan Double Cab models and things immediately become more stylish, with 17-inch alloy wheels, automatic rain-sensing wipers, dusk-sensing headlights and a dual zone climate control system all offered as part of the package.

This model is also the first in the range to receive the Super Select 4WD System that is mated to the more powerful 2.4-litre diesel engine - although customers will still have to put up with a manual gearbox.

Warrior models are offered with either a manual or automatic gearbox, while silver side steps, black leather seats and Bi-Xenon headlamps make it look like a more premium proposition. The electric, heated and folding mirrors with indicators will also come in handy, plus the Smartphone link display audio entertainment system is a must-have for those longer journeys.

Barbarian (and the related spin-off models) all seem a little over the top to us, as they pack superfluous spec, such as LED puddle lamps and a chrome engraved tailgate handle surround, which seem slightly ridiculous on a vehicle of this nature. Still, if you really need your pick-up to sport a stainless steel fuel filler cap cover and illuminated door entry guards, this is the model to go for.

Mitsubishi L200 Reliability and warranty

The Mitsubishi L200 has always stood for reliability and sturdiness but this latest model has been reinforced in all of the appropriate places to ensure it goes further, pulls more and lasts longer than ever before.

A five-year warranty from Mitsubishi is also generous but bear in mind that this only covers up to 62,500-miles, which could prove problematic for those looking to use their L200 for serious commutes.

Used Mitsubishi L200

Thanks to the fact that the L200 has been around for some time now, it's possible to find some absolute bargains on the used market.

However, due to the tough lives these vehicles typically lead, it is worth thoroughly checking service history, mileage and condition before committing to buy.

Other Editions

L200 (2019 – 2021)

This workhorse is just as tough as before, but has gained a more car-like interior, though the L200 still isn't a very comfortable pick-up