An increase in towing ability to 3.5 tonnes tops a raft of changes to the Mitsubishi L200.
Mitsubishi claims that its long-established model is now the only pickup that can tow 3.5 tonnes on tarmac in four-wheel-drive mode, and that it offers a best-in-class capacity when its maximum towing weight is made use of.
To achieve the gains extra strengthening has been dded to key load-bearing sections of the L200 chassis. The 3.5-tonne capacity is achievable with three-axle braked trailers, while 3.1 tonnes is the limit for one or two-axle braked trailers, and 0.75 tonnes for trailers with no brakes.
Alongside the increased towing capacity, Mitsubishi has developed a new heavy-duty towbar for the L200. It is rated up to 3.5-tonnes and designed to make most effective, and safest, use of the better stability that comes with three-axle trailers.
Standard on all L200s is the Trailer Stability Assist system, which works to brake independent wheels on the pickup to restore stability should the trailer start to ‘snake’. Features such as this allow the L200 to offer a bed payload of up to 590kg at its maximum towing weight, claimed to be significantly more than rivals.
Inside the latest touchscreen and voice-controlled infotainment system has been added. This includes smartphone compatibility and integrates with the display from the reversing camera, making hitching a trailer an easier process.
First introduced in July 2015, the fifth-generation Mitsubishi L200 costs from £19,000 (plus VAT), and is available in single, club and double-cab body styles.
