February 2015
New Mitsubishi L200 launched
The new L200 is billed by Mitsubishi as an entirely new vehicle from the ground up, with significant improvements in 330 areas. The result is the ultimate vehicle for commercial duty, combined with SUV-like refinement in quality and dynamic performance.
The new dual-zone air conditioning is 30 per cent quicker at cooling down the cabin space from 50 degrees to less than 20 degrees. Superior sound insulation means the vehicle is significantly quieter.
It has a turning radius of 5.9 metres and steering that can go from lock to lock in 3.8 turns (down from 4.3 in the previous generation L200).
Ride comfort is improved through the introduction of a fully revised suspension, including six shock absorbing body mounts that are more than double the size of those in the previous model. These absorb noise and vibration from the road, contributing to a smooth and quiet cabin experience.
Torsional rigidity in the all-new L200 Series 5 is 7 per cent greater than in its predecessor. This contributes to a significant improvement in handling and stability. Body roll, which has the effect of slowing down a vehicle’s dynamic response, has been dramatically reduced on the new model, making it much more nimble.
The new L200 has stiffer front springs, a larger suspension stabiliser bar and optimised damping characteristics. At the rear, the leaf spring suspension has been increased in length by 120mm.
Power and torque are increased to 178bhp and 430Nm at 2500 rpm, delivering superior performance through a new 6-speed manual transmission or automatic. At 10.4 seconds, the L200 is two seconds quicker to 62 mph than its predecessor.
On board Active Stability & Traction Control (ASTC) prevents wheel slip by controlling unstable vehicle movements. It individually brakes spinning wheels and controls power distribution from the engine, if traction is lost on slippery surfaces or when negotiating steep slopes.
Seven SRS airbags have been incorporated into the cabin to protect the vehicle’s occupants. And the steering wheel retracts in a collision.
Shock absorbing structures are installed around the bonnet and bumpers that minimise injury in the case of pedestrian impact. Additionally, the new model is fitted with lane departure warning, trailer stability assist, hill start assist and ABS with electronic brake force distribution.
The cargo bed of the L200 has improved usability, with more depth and greater overall volume. For additional strength, it is also reinforced with cross sills connected directly to the chassis frame, and has toughened steel panels around the rear gate pillars to resist fatigue.
The all-new L200 Series 5 went on sale in September 2015. Initially available in double cab, prices started at £19,749 for the 4Life, £20,749 for the Titan, £23,049 for the Warrior and £23,799 for the top of the range Barbarian.
5,280mm long x 1,815mm wide x 1,780mm high on 3,000mm wheelbase. Kerb weight 1,860kg.
17-inch wheels with 245/65 R17 tyres standard. 75 litre fuel tank.
Recommended oil change intervals reduced from 15,000km to 20,000km. Coolant changes reduced from 60,000m to 180,000km.
12-01-2018: L200 towing ability increased to 3.5 tonnes
Extra strengthening has been added to key load-bearing areas of the chassis with the result that 3.5-tonne towing capacity is now possible 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 a towing capacity of 0.75 tonnes is possible regardless of the number of axles or whether or not the trailer is braked.
With more tyres in contact with the road, three-axle trailers offer improved straight line stability compared to two-axle trailers, while braking ability and weight distribution are also greatly enhanced, as is low-speed manoeuvrability and controllability in the event of a tyre blowout. To ensure the highest levels of safety and reliability, Mitsubishi has also developed a new heavy-duty towbar that is rated for use up to 3.5 tonnes.
Towing is further aided with the standard fitment of the advanced Trailer Stability Assist system, which works to brake independent wheels on the Mitsubishi L200 to restore stability should the trailer start to ‘snake’, and in addition to it 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.
November 2018
L200 facelifted for 2019
The one-tonne pick-up gets revised styling, with a new headlight and front grille design that aligns the L200 with Mitsubishi's SUV range.
There are some minor changes in the cabin, with plastic frame surroundings for the infotainment, air vents and gearbox. Mitsubishi is also promising more soft-touch materials and better comfort, thanks to new seats and armrests.
As before the L200 is available with Super-Select or Easy-Select four-wheel drive, but both system are now available with new drive modes that allow the L200 to be optimised for gravel, mud, sand or rocky surfaces. When engaged, the driving mode will control the engine power, gearing and braking to maximise traction in challenging conditions.
A new package of computer driving aids will also be available, with blind spot warning lights in the door mirrors and a rear cross traffic system that'll warn the driver of approaching vehicles when reversing out of a parking bay or driveway.
An ultrasonic 'misacceleration mitigation system' will be available too, which Mitsubishi claims will 'reduce accidents resulting from improper use of the accelerator when moving off or reversing in car parks and other confined spaces'.