Mitsubishi L200 2021 review

Model review

When it comes to pick-ups, there are certain models that have established superb reputations over the years. These include the likes of the Toyota Hilux, Nissan Navara and also the model we’re reviewing here, the Mitsubishi L200. 

It’s one of the longest-running models around, with this pick-up first arriving in 1978 as a new compact truck catering for increased demand for models like this. 

Its appeal has continued to grow over the years, and is now one of the most popular pick-ups globally and a big-seller for Mitsubishi here in the UK, which has a particularly SUV-dominant range. In fact, in 2019 the brand had its best year ever for L200 registrations. 

Latest model

The latest sixth-generation L200 arrived in the UK in 2019 – more than 40 years after the original debuted. 

Headed up by a much bolder design using Mitsubishi’s ‘Dynamic Shield’ front-end design, which features across its car range, the pick-up also comes with a new 2.2-litre diesel engine, bringing welcome improvements when it comes to efficiency. 

The Japanese firm has also worked hard to improve the safety of the L200, implementing features such as blind spot monitoring, lane departure warning and rear cross traffic alert. 

Unfortunately, Mitsubishi announced that it’s set to withdraw from the UK market (and Europe for that matter) in 2022, as it focuses its efforts on other locations. This will see the brand stop selling new models, though aftersales and parts will continue, given the popularity of the brand in the UK. 

Value for money

With many L200 buyers likely doing so through their businesses, prices are typically displayed without VAT. The range begins at just under £22,000 for the two-seat ‘Club Cab’ model. Unless you’re using your pick-up as a workhorse, though, we’d recommend at least making the step up the double cab, which comes in at £22,945. Standard equipment isn’t especially generous, though you do get 16-inch alloy wheels, cruise control and Bluetooth. 

Pick-ups tend to hold their value quite well, especially as they get older, so you’ll struggle to find a tidy L200 for less than £5,000. 

If you’re looking at the latest model, the cheapest examples start from around £19,000 for the Club Cab or £20,000 for the Double Cab. You can expect good savings on nearly-new or unregistered models, though – we saw examples available with around £7,000 off list price. 

Looks and image

As pick-ups have increasingly been seen as more ‘lifestyle’ models over the years, the styling has evolved – becoming bolder and more imposing. That’s true of the latest L200 especially, which adopts Mitusbishi’s bold ‘Dynamic Shield’ front-end design, while the bonnet sits 4cm higher than its predecessor. Especially on top-spec models, which feature larger wheels and LED headlights, it won’t go unnoticed out on the roads.

Sadly, the cabin doesn’t quite hit the same notes, as it lacks the design and quality of competitors, particularly the Ford Ranger. While Mitsubishi has improved the quality on the latest model – especially top-spec versions, which feature fancy leather seats and a heated steering wheel – the switch gear doesn’t feel as sturdy or as user-friendly as it could be. 

Things are more pleasant behind the wheel, though, with Mitsubishi making a range of improvements over its predecessor. The engine is undoubtedly the best change – as it's smoother and more efficient than the one it replaces – while new suspension makes the L200 far more comfortable than before. Like many trucks, though, the L200 isn’t comparable to an SUV, as it’s nowhere near as refined or easy to manoeuvre. 

Space and practicality

The L200 remains a very practical option, and it’s the double cab that’s the one to go for – coming with generously-sized rear seats, though squeezing three adults in the rear might prove tricky. 

For maximum load bed practicality, the Club Cab will be the one to go for, with its 1.85m-long load bed, though the double cab still musters up an especially handy 1.52m. A payload of up to 1,080kg and maximum towing capacity of 3,500kg will also both come in especially handy. 

Engines

For the latest L200, just one engine is available – a 2.2-litre turbodiesel, which is available with both six-speed manual and automatic transmissions. Four-wheel-drive is standard across the range, too. 

Its 148bhp output might not sound all that much, but with a healthy 400Nm of torque, it’s plenty in this pick-up. It takes 12.2 seconds to get from 0-60mph, though you can add another second to that for the auto.

Running costs

While a pick-up will not be bought for its efficiency, the L200 compares favourably with other models in its class. 

Mitsubishi claims it will return up to 32.8mpg, while CO2 emissions of 198g/km aren’t so bad for a vehicle of this type. 

The L200 also offers plenty of appeal to company car drivers because it’s classed as a commercial vehicle, so it attracts lower benefit-in-kind. 

Things to look out for

Mitsubishis have a decent reliability reputation and the L200 is well-known for being dependable. If you’re looking at a used example, it’s important to check that models have not been abused, as many pick-ups have quite tough lives with towing and off-road use. 

On the plus side, Mitsubishi does offer a generous five-year warranty, though the 62,500-mile limit on it means it’s not ideal for high-mileage drivers. SsangYong, for example, offers a seven-year unlimited mileage warranty with its Musso truck. 

Rivals 

The pick-up remains as competitive as ever, wth the L200 facing key rivals such as the Isuzu D-Max, Toyota Hiilux, Nissan Navara, Ford Ranger and SsangYong Musso – all of which are credible choices. 

If you fancy something a bit upmarket, consider the Volkswagen Amarok and Mercedes X-Class, though you’ll have to look at used examples of these as both have been discontinued. 

Depreciation

While pick-ups will always offer plenty of appeal on the used market, the L200 does suffer quite steep depreciation – not least on newer models, which are offered at significant discounts. 

The news of Mitsubishi’s withdrawal from the UK will likely have harmed values, too, though it might mean you’re able to get a great saving on a new example as the Japanese firm seeks to shift leftover stock.