What makes the Mitsubishi L300 an enduring classic?

Perhaps the word “iconic” is thrown around a little too often (and loosely) these days. But surely, the venerable Mitsubishi L300 has actually earned that adjective as a lingering fixture on roads all over the country. One of the more durable nameplates across any brand, the L300’s familiar fascia is deceiving. It has steadily evolved throughout the years, while keeping its price point attainable.

With its roots in the Delica range of vans and pickups which saw the light of day in the late ‘60s, the L300 was given its nomenclature when it was first exported to Europe and other markets. It made a debut in the Philippines in the ‘80s, and from there, there was no looking back.

Even today, the L300 remains a ubiquitous paradigm of a transportation tool — keenly engineered to safely and conveniently move people, cargo, or both. Just last year, Mitsubishi Motors Philippines Corporation (MMPC) celebrated a milestone for the nameplate with 200,000 units produced locally. In May, the L300 led the sales charge for the company as 1,335 units were sold — growing by an incredible 187% versus the previous month.

The L300 and Filipinos have a love story that has truly endured to this day. We now take a look at what continues to make the L300 a darling of the crowd — more than three decades since its market introduction.

Updated engine

Within the current L300 beats a Euro 4-compliant 2.2-liter, 16-valve DOHC engine, which Mitsubishi says provides 40% more torque (200Nm) and 99.25ps. This is mated to a five-speed manual transmission, and the power is coursed through two wheels. This thrifty yet adequate motivator is certainly a unique value proposition for anyone on the lookout for a capable vehicle.

Upgraded cab and chassis

As mentioned, while the outside gets the familiar look Filipinos have grown to love, the L300 gets loads of improvements. Consider the cab, which has been raised by 100mm for enhanced visibility for the driver. This also helps the vehicle negotiate uneven terrain without scratching the underbody. Speaking of which, Mitsubishi fits a “stronger, safer chassis” on the L300 through structural adhesives, leading to increased rigidity. “The design is so strong so it can take years or thousands of miles of punishing roads without losing any structural integrity or fracturing,” said MMPC.

Also part of the upgrades are dual air-conditioning and an “adaptable cargo area can handle a massive 1215kg of payload.”

Ride on

The proudly Philippine-made Mitsubishi L300 also promises an improved ride for its passengers and cargo, courtesy of an independent wishbone and coil spring with stabilizer arrangement; a semi-elliptic leaf spring assembly gets the job done in the rear. Driving is made even easier with power steering, allowing effortless maneuvering and better responsiveness.

Priced right

Despite all the improvements and features, the Mitsubishi L300 is priced from a very affordable P804,000 – making it an achievable, wise investment for whatever you intend to use it. Whether as a partner of families or businesses, the Mitsubishi L300 has been a proven performer that has rightfully endeared it to Filipinos across generations. Now you know some of the reasons why.

For more information, visit the Mitsubishi Motors Philippines Corporation website at https://www.mitsubishi-motors.com.ph.

Photos from Mitsubishi Motors Philippines Corporation