Mitsubishi L200 review (2015-2019)

Our pick of the range has consistently been the Warrior model, which offers the best blend of price to standard equipment - arguably of any pickup on sale.

Still can't decide? Then we also have the following detailed individual variant reviews - click the link below to jump straight to the one that most interests you:

• Mitsubishi L200 Barbarian SVP II review - tested July 2018
• Mitsubishi L200 Warrior 2018 review (3.5-tonne towing capacity) - tested April 2018
• Mitsubishi L200 Barbarian SVP review - tested August 2017
• Mitsubishi L200 4Life Single Cab review - tested November 2016
• Mitsubishi L200 4Life Club Cab review - tested September 2016

All figures correct at time of writing

Mitsubishi L200 Barbarian SVP II review

Tested July 2018 by Keith WR Jones

• Second Special Vehicle Projects version of the L200
• Bigger wheels, macho appearance, lots and lots of orange
• Appealing, but it feels expensive for what it is

Compared with its chief rivals in the toughened-up pickup market, the L200 looks a little slender and under-wheeled alongside muscular Ford Ranger and Volkswagen Amarok trucks.

In 2017, Mitsubishi sought to redress this balance with the limited edition L200 Barbarian SVP. For 2018, the recipe’s been reworked for the SVP II.

With so much in-yer-face orangey bits, this is not a truck to commute to any clandestine affairs in…

Other than the orange, what’s different about the L200 Barbarian SVP II?

As with 2017’s SVP, this is a limited edition in the strictest sense of the word: only 500 L200 SVP IIs are being built, split 50:50 between Diamond Black and the Atlantic Grey of our test pickup.

Regardless of colour, there’s absolutely no escaping the oranginess – and whether you like it or find it repulsively tacky, this is a truck that garners attention wherever you drive it.

Those exterior tangerine cues include the grille, headlamp, front foglight and tail light frames, roof rails, door handle recesses and the orange and black finish to the 17-inch alloy wheels.

Enveloping the wheels are a set of knobbly BF Goodrich all-terrain tyres and a quartet of black plastic wheelarch extensions

Inside, there’s something of a 1970s lounge bar vibe about it, with black and orange leather seats, complemented by the satsuma-like glow from the LED ambient lighting and illuminated kick plates.

Leather and faux suede upholstery is shaped into the familiar ‘six pack’ design featured on standard Barbarians, although each SVP II has an embroidered edition number on the front headrests.

The Barbarian starting point means the SVP II is also stacked with kit, including Mitsubishi's substantially improved SDA infotainment system.

How does the Mitsubishi L200 SVP II drive?

Those all-terrain tyres will prove effective – in combination with the selectable four-wheel drive – where there’s no specific road to follow, but on conventional asphalt surfaces they do generate a background humming noise.

And when you corner with speed, you’re aware that the wheels themselves are moving sideways within the tyres, although the net effect of this is that you slow down.

With nothing in the loadbay, there’s a fidgety quality to the way this L200 rides: despite the cushiony tyres, it feels firm, meaning undulating B-roads can be a bouncy experience.

At least bodyroll is kept in check well for a vehicle of this height.

Producing 181hp and 430Nm of torque, the SVP II’s 2.4-litre turbocharged diesel engine gives the Mitsubishi fine real-world pace in combination with the optional five-speed auto.

Should I buy an L200 SVP II?

Unlike with marmalade, you do pay extra for the SVP II’s orange bits – it weighs in at £31,810 (plus VAT) on-the-road, a figure that’s £3,430 higher than the mechanically identical L200 Barbarian it’s based upon.

For that premium you’re gaining permanent attention from other road users and pedestrians alike, as well as the degree of exclusivity of knowing that there are only 499 other Mitsubishis like yours.

But just as it was when we drove the original L200 SVP in 2017, the less expensive Warrior model remains the one we’d recommend.

Mitsubishi L200 Warrior 2018 review - now with 3.5-tonne towing capacity

Tested April 2018 by Richard Kilpatrick

• Warrior trim bridges utility and comfort
• Four-wheel drive towing on tarmac for £25,605 (plus VAT)
• Impressive towing ability meets average load capacity

It’s a small change for the 2018 Mitsubishi L200 Warrior pickup, just a little number moving on the specification sheet: 3,100kg to 3,500kg (or 3.5 tonnes). Yet for that small improvement in grade, the Mitsubishi L200 joins the front runners in the crowded double cab pickup market.

For those of you wanting to get it over and done with - that’s pretty much all there is. Mitsubishi's L200 for 2018 looks much like 2017's - the big change is that the chassis is now double-skinned in crucial areas, and as a result the consistently popular pickup now pulls more weight.

Regardless of specification, the towing limit on the L200 4x4 is rated for the class maximum of 3,500kg. Many rivals that meet this high towing limit only offer them with an automatic transmission, whereas Mitsubishi has achieved that rating on both manual and automatic versions.

However, load capacity for the Warrior Double Cab is unchanged at 1,045kg, and since the Mitsubishi's gross train weight - GTW, or the total combined weight of pickup and trailer - also remains unaltered at 5,950kg, you can no longer tow to the max while also carrying nearly to the max as well.

New L200 can shift 4,090kg, towing 3,500kg of that

To stay legal, payload capacity drops to 590kg when towing the full 3,500kg. It is also necessary for a trailer and load over 3,100kg to have three axles for stability and weight distribution. A stronger towbar is part of the manufacturer approved kit, and standard-fit trailer stability assist completes the package.

Still, thanks to the L200’s low kerb weight, this now makes the L200 one of the best load luggers around, with a total load capacity of 4,090kg, and the only one offering that capacity with selectable permanent all-wheel drive usable on tarmac, rather than part-time four-wheel drive limited to loose surfaces.

If you're wondering why the svelte Mitsubishi is legally rated to carry more than larger, beefier looking pickups, the key is in the UK's licensing restrictions. A Maximum Authorised Mass (MAM) or GTW under 6,000kg is less likely to need a tachograph for the majority of users.

For example, if you want the security of full-time 4x4 for the same list price, you could get a Volkswagen Amarok Trendline 163hp; it has selectable four-wheel drive and a larger loadbay, but has a maximum load capacity of 3,423kg. Even the most powerful VW peaks at 3,856kg - some 234kg shy of the L200, and no Amarok can tow 3.5 tonnes.

That's how unusual the L200's blend of abilities is; it's essentially unrivalled.

Has the uprated capacity changed how the L200 drives?

Unless you’re in the business of stacking mattresses and attempting to detect small vegetables underneath them, you’re unlikely to be able to tell if you’re in the newer L200. One of the best four-cylinder engines offered in this market, the 2.4-litre MIVEC diesel is refined, light and powerful, with impressive torque of 430Nm.

In 181hp Warrior form with the six-speed manual gearbox, there’s a slightly harsh edge to road imperfections, and a precise, but ponderous gearshift surrounding a core of a comfortable ride, responsive handling and decent refinement for a pickup.

Larger road imperfections - or the ‘bloody great potholes’ that Britain seems to have perfected as an alternative traffic calming measure - provide a fair amount of noise and a few echoes as the suspension settles, without feeling like the Mitsubishi has been overwhelmed or damaged.

Turn-in and initial response are sharp for this type of vehicle, and the L200 is generally an engaging and enjoyable pickup to pilot, requiring little correction and providing plenty of feedback through the wheel. Standard-fit Bridgestone Dueler tyres work well in all conditions, rather than being so optimised for the road that they struggle with snow or mud, too.

Our test example came from Mitsubishi with a Truckman top fitted, which increases wind noise quite dramatically – a small price to pay for a usable, well-lit covered load area and a small improvement in fuel economy compared to an uncovered bed.

That load bed may be able to carry a lot of weight, but it's one of the smaller ones on the market. See our dedicated L200 Dimensions page for full details.

Should I buy one?

The Mitsubishi L200 is already a good pickup to drive, and the increased towing capacity adds flexibility. Selectable full-time four-wheel drive is a significant advantage over many rivals, providing grip for towing on loose surfaces and security in poor weather.

It's also good value, both at the £25,605 list price for this Warrior specification pickup, and on the frequent finance and lease offers from Mitsubishi from £275 per month with £825 deposit contribution; all figures exclude VAT.

Combining this ability and competitive pricing, the 2018 Mitsubishi L200 Warrior is a great truck if value and practicality are your priorities; unless you need a particularly large load area, it's difficult to make a case for spending more - and even if you do, you won't be able to tow as much with such surefooted traction on mixed surfaces.

Mitsubishi L200 Barbarian SVP review

Tested August 2017 by CJ Hubbard

• Limited edition lifestyle version of versatile pickup
• Full makeover includes bodywork mods, big tyres
• Lots to like but it comes at quite the price

The L200 has many talents, but it’s not the most obvious choice if you’re after a head-turning pickup.

Mitsubishi has come up with a solution. It’s called the Barbarian SVP, and as well as sexing up the L200, it’s also the launch vehicle for a whole new range of limited edition Special Vehicle Projects from Mitsubishi UK.

It looks, fair to say, pretty badass.

What’s different about the Mitsubishi L200 SVP?

This is a proper limited edition. Just 250 will be sold, half of them murdered-out in Cosmo Black, the other 50% finished in Electric Blue.

The blue works as a good contrast to the black exterior upgrades – which include eye-catching 17-inch alloy wheels with BF Goodrich off-road tyres and the wheelarch extensions necessary to accommodate them.

But we have to say the black on black on black of this test example certainly channels the mean and moody. In fact, it exuded a weirdly similar vibe to the Rolls-Royce Ghost Black Badge Parkers had in on test at the same time.

The L200 SVP’s black finish also makes the more challenging styling elements – the headlight and taillight shrouds in particular – appear better integrated.

There’s more black for the foglamp surrounds, roof rails, sport bar and rear bumper, plus you also get an all-new grille, and side-steps apparently inspired by shark fins.

Almost the only thing on the outside that isn’t black is the faux skid plate under the front bumper.

Looks hard as. But what about creature comforts?

The SVP is based on the top-of-the-range Barbarian trim level, so it’s loaded with standard kit,

Interior highlights include the fancy-looking Barbarian six-pack leather and suede seats, which come complete with SVP-logoed headrests embroidered with individual limited edition numbers; ours was number three.

Illuminated Barbarian sill plates are joined by footwell mood lighting – although given this is neon blue, the mood you’ll need to be in is Early Millennial Boy-racer.

The load bed lighting strips are similarly hilarious, though no doubt useful as well. Other neat touches include puddle lamps, tailgate damper and SVP badging on the outside.

Overall, the interior is still rather dull compared with most current rivals, however.

The sports bar on the back is optional, and costs £458 plus VAT at the time of writing.

Does the SVP drive any differently to a regular L200?

The knobbly off-road orientated tyres move around a bit more underneath you, and generate a touch more road noise as well, but the SVP driving experience is otherwise L200 situation normal.

This means a surprisingly positive front end with plenty of grip, and well-controlled body roll in the corners – but a jittery unladen ride and rather numb steering.

All SVPs get the more powerful 181hp version of Mitsubishi’s 2.4-litre L200 turbodiesel engine, which feels effortlessly potent in most situations and is commendably refined once warm.

This particular example was fitted with the optional automatic gearbox. Despite having only five speeds this is a definite upgrade over the long-winded six-speed manual transmission.

The L200 is a good choice for an off-road pickup, and those all-terrain tyres will only improve this. Fancy risking all those fancy exterior bits, though?

Should I buy an L200 SVP?

At £30,633 (plus VAT) as tested, the Mitsubishi L200 SVP is not a cheap proposition – that’s £4,000 more than an equivalent L200 Barbarian with the same automatic transmission.

Whether you think the additional jewellery is worth the extra cash is up to you.

But it does run rather counter to one of the L200’s major selling points: its fantastic value. For us, the L200 Warrior remains the sweet spot in Mitsubishi’s lifestyle range.

Mitsubishi L200 4Life Single Cab review

Tested November 2016 by CJ Hubbard

• Entry-level Mitsubishi pickup truck tested
• Two doors, two seats, extended load area
• Cheap and great value, but rivals more practical

This is the cheapest, most basic version of the fifth-generation Mitsubishi L200 pickup truck, the 4Life Single Cab, priced just £17,999 plus VAT at launch.

That’s only a couple of hundred quid more than the equivalent Isuzu D-Max, and over a grand less than the lowliest Toyota Hilux. For this kind of money you’d be right to expect a stripped out, bare bones experience – but Mitsubishi doesn’t quite treat you like that.

This pickup, like every other current L200, comes with air-conditioning, four-wheel drive and Bluetooth as standard, among many other items of fitted equipment. Put that together with the five-year warranty and you’ve got extremely solid value.

But is it actually any good? Let’s find out.

Single cab = maximum working capacity?

The L200 Single Cab was added to the Mitsubishi L200 range in September 2016, alongside the Club Cab; up until this point, the L200 gen 5 range was limited to Double Cab models only.

The Single Cab has just two doors and two seats. While this obviously limits the amount of human cargo, compensation comes in the form of a significantly extended load area, making this a more practical truck.

The load area is 415mm longer than the L200 Club Cab, and 745mm longer than the L200 Double Cab. Payload capacity is 1,060kg – 15kg higher than either Mitsubishi alternative, though towing capacity is limited to the same 3.0-tonnes as the Club Cab.

Sounds impressive in isolation, but both the Isuzu and Toyota single-cab rivals have longer and wider load areas, higher payload ratings and greater towing capability.

So although this is the most practical L200, it isn’t the most practical single-cab pickup.

What's the L200 Single Cab like to drive?

You can only get the Single Cab with a 154hp 2.4-litre turbodiesel engine. This is reasonably efficient at a claimed 40.9mpg – the same on paper as the Club Cab but since it weighs less you should find this L200 variant the most fuel efficient out in the real world.

The engine is surprisingly refined – you can barely hear it when cruising, and it only really becomes disturbing when revved hard. 380Nm of torque means you don’t have to do this too often.

The six-speed manual gearbox is less easy to warm to, being notchy and occasionally vague. And although the steering is light and accurate enough, this is a bouncy, slightly tippee-toed driving experience if you have to go any distance without any kind of load in the back, rolling through the turns and lurching over bumps.

Still, with not only four-wheel drive but the ability to lock the rear differential for increased traction it is good off-road – even on regular road tyres – and our test vehicle was finished in UN-spec white, attracting smiles and waves wherever we went.

Should I buy an L200 Single Cab?

Consider the load area and payload capacity limitations carefully, but if it’s got the space and strength to cover your needs then the L200 4Life Single Cab is an excellent choice. While the interior is a very much on the plain side, for a working truck it comes very well equipped, is easy to drive and covered by a reassuringly length warranty.

Mitsubishi L200 4Life Club Cab review

Tested September 2016 by CJ Hubbard

• Extended cab version of L200 Series 5 pickup tested
• Only available in basic 4Life spec with 154hp engine
• Good value at £18,499 plus VAT with lots of fitted kit

A year after launching its fifth-generation L200 pickup truck in 2015, Mitsubishi has now added Single Cab and Club Cab versions, available only in the entry-level 4Life specification.

What’s new for the L200 Series 5 Club Cab?

The biggest change for the Series 5 Club Cab is that it has a set of backwards-opening rear doors.

The advantage to this is that gives you better access to the rear seating area – handy whether you’re transporting people or storing valuable tools and equipment back there. The rear seat bases flip upwards to make more room for the latter, too.

You can only open the rear doors if the front doors are already open. Which might occasionally be inconvenient, but certainly helps them stay safe.

How basic is Mitsubishi’s 4Life specification?

Not that basic any more. The interior is certainly more functional than frilly, in terms of its design and tough plastic finish, but electric windows and air-conditioning are now standard, the front seats have adjustable lumber support, and there are buttons on the steering wheel to control the CD-radio and Bluetooth system. You also get two airbags, a USB port for charging your phone and a leather-trimmed steering wheel.

That said, there is no engine choice in the 4Life range – only the 154hp, 380Nm version of Mitsubishi’s 2.4-litre turbodiesel is fitted; paired with a six-speed manual gearbox and the Easy Select four-wheel drive system this claims 40.9mpg.

What's the Easy Select four-wheel drive system like?

This has two-wheel drive, four-wheel drive and four-wheel drive low-range settings, activated electronically via a knob by the gearlever.

Compared with Mitsubishi’s higher grade Super Select four-wheel drive system, Easy Select can’t drive all four wheels at motorway speeds, but it’s fitted to 4Life models because it has a proper differential lock, which is better for dealing with more serious off-road terrain.

We tested it over a reasonably challenging forest course using both regular road tyres and mud-plugging off-road tyres, and aside from having to be careful not to catch the long rear end on anything, it breezed through every obstacle.

What’s the 4Life Club Cab like on regular roads?

Pretty easy to handle in most situations – helped by the L200’s relatively compact dimensions (keeping in mind that it is still nearly 5.2m long and 1.8m wide).

The steering is light and acceptably precise, and if the Club Cab starts to roll excessively in the corners you’re probably going too fast.

Should I buy an L200 Club Cab?

The 4Life Club Cab is priced from £18,499 excluding VAT, undercutting every rival except the Isuzu D-Max Utility, which comes with far less standard kit. It's great value.

With good fuel economy, a quiet engine and useful creature comforts, the Mitsubishi should be an easy pickup to spend your working life with. But it isn’t the top choice if practical concerns such as payload and towing capacity are your number one priority.