MITSUBISHI L200 SPORTERO
TEST DRIVE
AVINDA
PERERAMITSUBISHI L200
H
istorically, Mitsubishi has always been strong at making durable, class-leading 4x4s.
Be it the Pajero/Montero, taking class victories in the gruelling Paris-Dakar Rally
for consecutive years since first participating in 1983, or the Lancer Evolution’s
domination of the WRC rally circuits, only getting stronger with each iteration, Mitsubishi
have proven time and time again, their ability to compete at the highest level, using a
winning formula of innovation and robustness.
Another workhorse from the marque, is the Mitsubishi L200 pick up. Launched in 1978 as
a compact pick-up, it was the second generation that truly cemented the L200 as a symbol of
robust engineering. Manufactured from 1986 to 1996, this truck is probably the mental image
generated in your mind when someone says ‘L200’. A firm favourite with the government,
these trucks still run on State business putting up with the abuse they are given on a daily basis, bruised and
battered, but battle hardened; engines never missing a beat.
Unfortunately Mitsubishi faced financial challenges in recent years partly due to lacklustre cars that were
‘mildly-satisfactory’ at best in the face of competition living well beyond their product life cycle. The company
had to resort to extreme measures, even cutting back on legendary nameplates, like the Lancer Evolution and
Galant.
Following a strategic tie-up with Nissan, the company has been free to re-focus and get back on track. They
haven’t disappointed so far. Mitsubishi have been bold, taking risks with design and showing no aversion to
Motor
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