2007 Mitsubishi L200 2.5L Diesel · MJ57 NVM

The 2.5-litre diesel L200 typically returns around 30-35 mpg in mixed use, though older examples with uncertain service history may fall short of these figures. As a pre-2009 vehicle, this L200 sits in a higher tax bracket than newer alternatives, with road tax of approximately £305 per year. Insurance is generally reasonable for a double-cab pickup but group ratings vary, so a quote is essential before purchase. Parts are widely available and relatively cheap due to the L200's commercial heritage, and most independent garages can service them without specialist knowledge.

Estimated annual running costs of £2,000-£2,600 should be budgeted for fuel, tax, insurance, and routine maintenance on a vehicle of this age. Older L200s can develop minor electrical faults and occasional clutch wear, which may push repair costs higher in any given year. The low recent mileage may also mean upcoming servicing costs are higher than average, as components may need attention after long idle periods.

Given the L200's top three MOT failure reasons across nearly 89,000 examples are headlamp issues, windscreen wipers, and suspension arms, these are the specific areas worth prioritising during a viewing. Check both headlamps for condensation, cracked lenses, and proper alignment, and inspect the wiper blades and washers for full function. The suspension arms are particularly relevant on a 19-year-old commercial vehicle that may have carried heavy loads, so listen for knocking over bumps and visually check for worn bushes and ball joints.

Also inspect the underside for corrosion, as pickups of this vintage can suffer from chassis rot, particularly around the rear crossmember and wheel arches. The 2.5-litre diesel engine should be started from cold and checked for excessive smoke, unusual noises, and smooth tickover. Although this specific vehicle's MOT history shows no recorded defects on four of the five tests, the failure with no listed reasons in September 2024 is worth clarifying, and a pre-purchase inspection by a garage familiar with L200s would be money well spent on a vehicle approaching two decades old.