According to Mitsubishi, the L200 with 4-speed automatic transmission (optional) accelerates from 0 to 100 kph in 17.8 seconds. Did you say slow? What's more, 80-120 kph sprints are completed in 11.5 seconds, meaning that the truck struggles to reach the higher speeds. On the plus side, takeoffs are decent, especially with such generous low-end torque. The engine simply runs out of steam beyond 3,000 rpm.
With regards to fuel consumption, European ratings are 11.8 L/100 km in the city and 8.8 L/100 km on the highway, which is fairly commendable for a pickup truck. Equipped with the 5-speed manual transmission, these figures drop to 10.7 and 7.4, respectively. In addition, when the trailer comes with its own set of brakes, the L200 can tow up to 2,700 kilos (6,000 lbs) -- very impressive. Without trailer brakes, the limit is set at 750 kilos (1,650 lbs).
Decent driving dynamics
When I first saw the ground clearance offered by the L200, I expected a jolty ride, much like with the Ford Ranger and Mazda B-Series. Fortunately, I was wrong. This Mitsubishi is relatively nimble thanks to a precise steering.
It also benefits from a 4WD system called Super Select, featuring a stick-controlled transfer case (as seen on the Jeep Wrangler and Toyota FJ Cruiser). This system includes low- and high-range gearing as well as a locking differential which distributes power between the front and rear wheels.
What about Canada?
Would Canadians buy a truck like the L200? It all depends on pricing and customer needs. With a fairly shallow cargo box, its work load proves limited. Still, cities that purchase base Ranger XLs to carry lawnmowers, park benches, etc. or pick up stuff on the side of the road, the diesel-powered L200 appears as an interestingly fuel-efficient alternative.
However, a gasoline engine would be needed to attract a larger customer pool, which isn't the case in Europe. If not anything else, the L200 could make a successful transition to our shores despite its Martian looks. But Mitsubishi Motors Sales of Canada has more important models on its mind, like the Colt and Grandis, so we should not expect to see the L200 in Canadian showrooms before a long time.
Attractive and unique
Room for four adults
Fuel economy
Small cargo box
Modest performance
None
photo:Philippe Champoux
With regards to fuel consumption, European ratings are 11.8 L/100 km in the city and 8.8 L/100 km on the highway, which is fairly commendable for a pickup truck. Equipped with the 5-speed manual transmission, these figures drop to 10.7 and 7.4, respectively. In addition, when the trailer comes with its own set of brakes, the L200 can tow up to 2,700 kilos (6,000 lbs) -- very impressive. Without trailer brakes, the limit is set at 750 kilos (1,650 lbs).
 |
| The box offers limited cargo capacity. |
Decent driving dynamics
When I first saw the ground clearance offered by the L200, I expected a jolty ride, much like with the Ford Ranger and Mazda B-Series. Fortunately, I was wrong. This Mitsubishi is relatively nimble thanks to a precise steering.
It also benefits from a 4WD system called Super Select, featuring a stick-controlled transfer case (as seen on the Jeep Wrangler and Toyota FJ Cruiser). This system includes low- and high-range gearing as well as a locking differential which distributes power between the front and rear wheels.
What about Canada?
Would Canadians buy a truck like the L200? It all depends on pricing and customer needs. With a fairly shallow cargo box, its work load proves limited. Still, cities that purchase base Ranger XLs to carry lawnmowers, park benches, etc. or pick up stuff on the side of the road, the diesel-powered L200 appears as an interestingly fuel-efficient alternative.
However, a gasoline engine would be needed to attract a larger customer pool, which isn't the case in Europe. If not anything else, the L200 could make a successful transition to our shores despite its Martian looks. But Mitsubishi Motors Sales of Canada has more important models on its mind, like the Colt and Grandis, so we should not expect to see the L200 in Canadian showrooms before a long time.
 |
Room for four adults
Fuel economy
 |
Small cargo box
Modest performance
 |
None
photo:Philippe Champoux
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