Despite
the fact that SUVs command sales, pick up's are not far behind in volume. Over
the years we have seen how they have evolved thanks to the fact that technology
has endowed them with new qualities. Especially in areas such as safety or
dynamics with the inclusion of new active driving aids. All brands in the
segment have taken advantage of these improvements, but the new Mitsubishi L200
hits the spot with all of them.
Over
the past few months, there has been much talk about the new Triton. This is the
name that the Japanese pick-up has in the main markets in which it is present
and where it reaps the most sales. However, there were a number of rumors that
suggested that it would be a clone of the Nissan Navara, but nothing could be
further from the truth. But this time Mitsubishi has opted for its own
development that places it at the head of the segment and its rivals...
The
image of the new Mitsubishi L200 evolves the design concept of "Dynamic
Shield"...
If we
compare the current L200 with the new Triton we can see the aesthetic
evolution. The house takes a step forward by evolving the “Dynamic Shield”
design concept under the theme “Beast Mode”. Now the pick-up is more powerful
with a more vertical front that keeps the optics at two levels plus the
anti-fog ones. They are connected to each other by a glossy black fang that
flanks the large grill with four horizontal slats.
For its
part, the bumper is perfectly integrated into the set with plastic protective
molding. The side view draws attention to the bulging wheel arches with
protective strips in gloss black and tension lines that run through the body
and are marked on the hood and cargo tub. As a complement, it has new footrests
or roof bars better integrated into the bodywork or new alloy wheels...
At the
rear, it stands out for the simplicity of the lines with the
"T"-shaped optics that slightly bite into the side of the cargo tub.
The gate includes the opening handle in the upper center and below the logo
with the three diamonds of the brand or the names of the corresponding version.
The bumper, like the front, is perfectly integrated with one objective: to
offer generous angles of attack and departure for off-road use.
Its
interior gains in quality, technology, safety... and elegance...
If the
external evolution of the new L200 is palpable inside, it is no less. The
dashboard has been designed with the "Horizontal Axis" philosophy
that takes shape with a central floating-type touch screen that completes its
information with the mixed instrument panel. In it there are a couple of analog
clocks and in the middle, there is a 7-inch display that varies the information
shown according to the driving mode chosen in its use.
In
essence, the basic design lines are reminiscent of the recent Outlander, but
the L200 feels more "solid." In Mitsubishi, they indicate that the
main controls have been designed following the Touch philosophy. The idea
behind it is to offer maximum robustness and ease of use. For example, we can
mention the climate control controls or the circular selector to manage
traction, the driving modes, or the shortcuts on the screen.
In
terms of quality, at least visually, the renewed L200 takes a big leap forward.
Depending on the version chosen, its seats can be dressed in leather upholstery
with colored inserts to match the bodywork. But in addition, safety also
improves with new active aids such as adaptive cruise control (ACC) or blind
spot warning (BSW). These are managed through the controls on the horizontal
arms of the steering wheel.
But the
key is in his renewed technique...
However,
the great revolution of the new Mitsubishi L200 is in its technique. The
platform of beams and cross members next to the engine are of a new type. It
now measures 5.36 meters long, 1.93 meters wide, and 1.81 meters high with a
wheelbase of 3.13 meters. Regarding the load capacity by weight and towing, the
data is not official, although it is expected to exceed one ton and 3.5
thousand kilos of drag.
As a
curious fact, Mitsubishi has not changed the rear brakes. On the front axle
they are 320-millimeter ventilated discs but behind them are still drums.
However, the big news is in the 2.4-liter biturbo diesel powertrain (4N16) that
gives 150 kW (204 hp) and 470 Nm of torque. For its management, the brand
relies on a 6-speed manual transmission and another automatic with 6 stages and
Sport mode.
In
Thailand, the most important market for the L200, there will be two more power
levels. In this case, the 2.4-liter block becomes mono turbo with 110 kW (150
CV) and 330 Nm of torque and 135 kW (184 CV) and 430 Nm of torque. The off-road
part is covered with the Super Select 4WD-II and Easy Select 4WD systems. All
cases, 2WD and 4WD, mount a limited-slip rear differential controlled by an
active brake.
L200s
equipped with the Super Select 4WD-II system can select from four options: 2H
(rear-wheel drive), 4H (full-time four-wheel drive), 4HLc (locked center
differential), and 4LLc (locked center differential with gears). It also adds
seven driving modes: Normal, Eco, Gravel, Snow, Mud, Sand, and Rock. Easy Select
4WD system allows 2H, 4H, and 4L (for low-speed driving).
When
will the new Mitsubishi L200 arrive in Europe…?
For now, the data we have for the new Mitsubishi L200 is for the ASEAN region. The
reason for this fact is that this area of the world is the one that brings
together the most sales and therefore the Japanese house wants to satisfy all
your needs. According to the official press release published by the brand…
Therefore,
to find out what will happen in Europe we still have to wait. However, it would
not be unreasonable for it to reach the Old Continent during the next year
2024. Patience...
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