The Glass’s Commercial Vehicle Editorial team name the Mitsubishi L200 Barbarian Used Van Hero for December 2019.

Each month, the Glass’s CV team meet to name the current Used Van Hero in the UK market – the model they believe offers versatility, durability and outstanding value for money.

Andy Picton, Chief Commercial Vehicle Editor: “Responsible for introducing the first lifestyle models to the UK, the Mitsubishi L200 is a perfect combination of four wheel drive ruggedness and lifestyle appeal.”

Andy added, “The L200 range is well-established in the UK and the ‘go-to’ pick-up brand for many years. It offers a wide range of solutions for fleets and sole traders alike”.

WHY?

In the demanding commercial vehicle market, the L200 range offers a multitude of combinations and variations to create an almost limitless range of vehicle options. With the availability of workhorse and lifestyle models, manual and automatic transmissions all coupled to go anywhere four-wheel drive, the L200 is the regular choice for those wanting rugged off-road reliability, refined on-road drive and realistic fuel economy.

WHEN WAS IT ON SALE?

The first generation L200 launched in 1978 but was not available in the UK until the remodelled second generation L200 launched in 1986. This version ran for ten years.

Available from 1996 to 2006, the third generation L200 powered by a 2.5TD engine, added lifestyle models to what had previously been a utilitarian range.

Exported to 140 global markets, the fourth generation L200 launched in 2005 with its recognisable ‘J-Line’ profile.

The Series 5 launched in 2015 with an all-new 2.4DI-D engine developing outputs of 154bhp and 181bhp. The Series 5 became the donor product for the rebadged Fiat Fullback. In the UK, the Fiat Fullback had a limited lifecycle from 2016 to its demise in 2019.

The current Series 6 model launched earlier in 2019 and features Euro 6 compliant engines, a new front end and significant interior upgrades.

WHAT’S GOOD?

• On and off road driving character
• Available in Single, extended Club and Double Cab body styles
• Four standard trim levels – 4Life, Titan, Warrior and Barbarian
• Durable and economical engines
• Comfortable cabin
• Level of standard specification including safety and security equipment
• Excellent electronic 4WD system
• Newer examples can tow up to 3.5 tonnes
• 5-year warranty
• Dealer network coverage

WHAT’S BAD?

• Service intervals are at 12,500 miles
• Third gear sometimes difficult to engage on manual gearbox
• Check for faulty Diesel Particulate Filter
• Paint quality is an issue for some
• Infotainment system on earlier models fiddly to use
• Dashboard plastics can scratch easily
• Payload not up with the best in this sector
• Cabin storage space is somewhat lacking
• Check the service history before purchasing

IDEAL BUY?

Mitsubishi L200 Barbarian 2.4DI-D 178bhp Auto Double Cab

Registration Plate: 2016/66

Mileage: 45,000

Glass’s Retail £15,400 Excl VAT

Glass’s Trade £12,400 Excl VAT