Contributed
The 2007 Mitsubishi L200 2.5-litre diesel pick-up is available at Motor Sales & Service, along 51 South Camp Road at prices ranging from $1.6M to $3.0M for the 4x2 single cab and the 4x4 Sportero respectively. The Sportero will be available in Jamaica next year.

Andrew Smith, Auto Coordinator

Mitsubishi's third generation of its venerable pick-up truck, the L200 arrived in Jamaica last week, and it is guaranteed to raise the stakes for all pick-ups. This redesigned one-ton truck features curves that contrast so sharply with its predecessor's boxy edges that it's hard to believe that it's of the same lineage. This isn't nipping & tucking - it's radical plastic surgery.

What's new?

What has Mitsubishi done differently? Everything. Its new aerodynamic lines will fit right in with the other sleek and sporty vehicles on the highway and still be able to transport loads in Jamaica's rugged interior.

In order to do this, the suspension has been changed from the traditional torsion bar front suspension to independent double wishbone and coiled spring suspension, which gives a more comfortable ride, especially appreciated on rugged, off-road terrain. Limited-slip differential helps to maintain traction by preventing wheel slip.

The curves continue in the interior with a shapely dashboard that will thrill the driver as he reaches for the easy-access knobs and an instrument panel layout with large dials and ergonomically arranged controls. Rear-cabin passengers will welcome the increased space and leg room. SRS airbags are available for the driver and front passenger.

Models available

Four 4WD models and two 2WDs will be available from Motor Sales & Service in Kingston. The models available now all have 5-speed manual transmission, although automatic transmission vehicles will be available next year. Two single-cab and four double-cab models are available and a 2.5-litre diesel engine comes standard with most models.

The current top of the line model is the GLS double cab with a turbo-charged common rail, 8 valve SOHC engine. This will be dwarfed next year when Motor Sales receives the L200 Sportero, which the dealers are awaiting with baited breath.

Apart from aerodynamic lines, the L200's body also features Mitsubishi's RISE (Reinforced Impact Safety Evolution) body design and ladder frame that is designed to absorb impact from a collision. Standard safety features are anti-lock brakes and EBD (electronic brakeforce distribution) available in all models.

So initial impression of Mitsubishi's new L200 pick-up are positive and it will be interesting to see how they perform in Jamaica. Its first test will come from the Ministry of Health, which have bought 10 vehicles to combat the current malaria outbreak.