Mitsubishi L200 review (1988-2006)
PROS
- Good all-rounder
- Car-like accessories available on top models
CONS
- Surpassed by newer rivals
Summary
The L200 was the best pickup available in the Double Cab market, but still has plenty to offer.
The range is effectively split into two camps - the 4Work aimed at those who use the vehicles mainly for business, and the 4Life, Warrior and Animal aimed at those who need the vehicles to double up as a family car.
A 137hp version of the 2.5 turbodiesel is available on high-spec 4Life and Animal models (or offered as a power upgrader on others), which makes better progress on the road than the 88hp and 113hp workhorse models.
The Animal Double Cab made a play for the increasing number of people who are choosing a pick-up instead of a regular car or 4x4 with a wide array of car-like features.
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The L200 is a decent performer for this type of vehicle. Bear in mind it has a relatively high centre of gravity and has a primitive turbodiesel engine compared with modern cars, and it acquits itself quite well, especially the higher-power versions which also offer improved driving behaviour at lower speeds.
There is a good degree of body roll in faster bends, and the 137hp engine often causes the rear wheels to spin momentarily when accelerating out of junctions in normal driving mode.
The L200 is a strong performer off road with a low range gearbox, good ground clearance and excellent axle articulation.
Like many part-time four-wheel drive vehicles, the L200 must run in two-wheel drive mode on normal dry roads though to prevent transmission damage.
The L200 looks dated when placed alongside the 2005 Nissan Navara and the Isuzu Rodeo, but there was plenty to play with on the models aimed at private buyers and company car drivers.
While the 4Work versions are basic with just the bare essentials, 4Life models have alloy wheels and electric windows and mirrors.
Warrior and Animal versions offer CD player, air conditioning and larger alloys as well as other styling upgrades. The range-topping Animal is also available with leather trim and aftermarket accessories such as a DVD player for rear passengers.
In line with other pickups and Double Cabs, the L200 is typical of this class returning about 25mpg when not worked too hard.
Period competitors such as the Nissan X-trail or Honda CR-V would both use less fuel, but would not be able to perform as well off road or cope with the same workhorse type chores.
Service intervals were recently increased from 4500 miles to 9000 miles.
These vehicles are designed for a hard-working life and should prove reliable. The interior should also stand up to wear and tear.
Unfortunately for those who use the 4Work versions, ABS is an option on the L200. As the L200 is not fitted with a great deal of other chassis-based safety systems it is worth taking care in tricky conditions, particularly if you are used to driving a normal car.
Security of some the load area covers also leaves a little to be desired with only basic locks. Central locking and engine immobiliser are standard, though, and high-specification models come with both a driver and passenger airbag.
