The seventh-generation Mitsubishi L200 will arrive in the UK this summer with a focus on four-wheel-drive capability, as the manufacturer looks to re-establish the pickup as one of the most capable work-focused vehicles on sale.
Four wheel drive across the range
Available in Titan and Barbarian specifications, the new L200 brings back familiar Mitsubishi off-road hardware, including shift-on-the-fly four-wheel drive and selectable terrain modes. Both versions can switch between two- and four-wheel drive while moving, with the system operable at speeds of up to 62mph.
The entry-level Titan model uses Mitsubishi’s Easy Select 4WD system. In normal road use it runs in rear-wheel drive, with the driver able to select high-range four-wheel drive for off-road or slippery surfaces. Low-range four-wheel drive is also available when the vehicle is stationary and in neutral, giving the L200 extra control in tougher mud, snow or low-grip conditions.
Titan models also include a manually operated locking rear differential, helping maintain traction when one rear wheel loses grip.
The higher-spec Barbarian gets Mitsubishi’s sophisticated Super Select 4WD-II system. Unlike many part-time four-wheel-drive systems, Super Select allows the pickup to run in four-wheel drive on tarmac thanks to a locking centre differential.
That should make the Barbarian particularly useful for towing, winter roads, and mixed on- and off-road work, where conditions can change quickly. In normal 2H mode, all power is sent to the rear wheels, while 4H provides full-time four-wheel drive with a normal 33:67 front-to-rear torque split. The system can automatically alter that to 50:50 if grip is lost.
The L200 Barbarian can also switch into 4HLc at speeds of up to 62mph, locking the centre differential for loose or slippery surfaces. A low-range 4LLc mode is available for more demanding off-road use.
For the first time on the L200, the Barbarian’s Super Select 4WD-II system also includes Active Yaw Control. The system is designed to improve cornering stability by applying light braking to the inside wheel when required, while also managing torque across the rear axle depending on grip levels. It operates in both two- and four-wheel drive.
Both Titan and Barbarian models come with Active Stability Control, Traction Control, Hill Descent Control and Hill Start Assist.
The Barbarian also includes seven selectable terrain modes: Normal, Eco, Gravel, Snow, Mud, Sand and Rock. These adjust traction control and throttle response according to the surface.
Alex Sheward, head of sales at Mitsubishi Motors in the UK, said: “The all-new Mitsubishi L200 Series 7 delivers the robust capabilities expected from every aspect of this eagerly anticipated pickup’s arrival in the UK.
“Optimised two and four-wheel drive capabilities and versatile drive modes enhance the L200’s exceptional abilities in every environment, making it a formidable contender for those wanting the ultimate workhorse pickup.”
Mitsubishi L200 pricing confirmed
Mitsubishi has already confirmed that the new L200 will return with prices starting from £36,295 excluding VAT for the entry-level Titan spec, rising to £39,995 for the range-topping Barbarian. A two-seater double-cab Commercial model will be priced at £37,495 plus VAT.
