Mitsubishi L200 pickup - Engines, drive & performance (2015-2021)
The latest engine has plenty of torque but the Mitsubishi L200 feels bulky around town
The latest Mitsubishi L200 might be closely linked with the old version but a lot has changed about how it feels to drive. The turbocharged diesel engine is new and the suspension has been given an overhaul to make it feel more SUV-like than ever.
Mitsubishi L200 diesel engines
Slightly smaller than before, the 2.3-litre diesel will seem a bit gruff if you've just stepped out of a crossover but isn't too bad for the engine in a pickup. Power is only 148bhp, which may seem disappointing in a two-tonne pickup, but it's backed up by a stout 400Nm of torque from low in the rev range. This makes acceleration fairly effortless and the L200 isn't at all out of place on the motorway, where it can cruise easily with minimal wind noise.
In an urban setting the steering feels rather heavy and ponderous, making the L200 feel its size, while the automatic gearbox is also slightly jerky when making shifts. It’s decent to drive overall, and only just behind the Ford Ranger in the driving department.
Selectable four-wheel drive with high and low-range gearing, hill descent control and a locking central differential means it has the necessary hardware to perform competently off-road. That's crucial because, unlike most SUVs, many pickups will actually be used on muddy building sites and farmers’ fields.
