Mitsubishi L200

Driving
The L200 has old-fashioned leaf spring suspension at the rear, enabling very heavy loads to be carried. But up front, there’s a sophisticated double wishbone and coil arrangement, which mean SUV-like on-road handling and a fairly comfortable ride, too. The 2.5-litre turbodiesel four-cylinder engine produces 134bhp, and is smooth and torquey, if a little unrefined. The Japanese firm offers both manual and automatic gearboxes, while the L200’s off-road ability is also impressive.

Marketplace
Forget the Evo X, when it comes to new Mitsubishis, they don’t get much more important than the L200 Double Cab. The rugged pick-up is the most popular machine of its type in the UK, accounting for a third of the total market! And, despite increased competition, the latest model ensures strong appeal with its dramatic styling and decent driving experience. The range starts with workmanlike 4Life and 4Work derivatives, but Elegance, Animal and Warrior versions boast more equipment and styling enhancements. The range-topping Warrior even comes with a Ralliart engine power upgrade - available as an option on other versions - which pushes power up to 165bhp. Rivals include the Toyota Hilux, Nissan Navara, Isuzu Rodeo and Ford Ranger.

Owning
The L200 combines four-door SUV practicality with a huge, versatile rear pick-up deck. It can be left open to the elements, but many owners fit aftermarket decks, which provide protection and security. Inside, the Mitsubishi is much more SUV-like than its utilitarian predecessor, with a decent driving position and plenty of space. There is room in the back for three adults, while the rear window can be lowered to allow access to the load deck. The dashboard is made from plastics which only occasionally reveal the vehicle’s tough nature, and is fashionably styled with a sporty steering wheel and blue-lit dials. It’s well equipped, and buyers can even fit full-colour touch-screen sat nav. Build quality is excellent and the newcomer should continue its predecessor's reputation for faultless reliability. Economy is pretty good for such a big vehicle and recent tweaks have seen CO2 emissions dip below the 225g/km ‘gas guzzler’ mark. With competitive prices and excellent retained values it's not hard to see why the Mitsubishi has been so successful.