CV SHOW CATCH-UP: Mitsubishi launches contrasting 4x4 model duo

Date: Thursday, May 3, 2018

Mitsubishi launched two UK-exclusive vehicles at the CV Show, with the SUV-derived Shogun Sport Commercial (pictured) sitting alongside the film-inspired L200 Barbarian SVP II.

Based on the passenger car version, which launches this month, the Shogun Sport Commercial features a load area of around 1.5m3 and the ability to tow up to 3,100kg braked.

The conversion includes a bulkhead and flat floor, with an interior carried over from the car version, including heated leather seats.

Power comes from a 2.4-litre diesel, which powers all four wheels through an eight-speed auto gearbox. Prices are yet to be announced.

Head of corporate sales Clive Messenger told What Van? that although the Shogun Sport Commercial would have niche appeal, Mitsubishi expects strong demand from specialist sectors.

He said: “We think it will suit an area of the market that is not really being served. It’s a serious off-roader with good carrying capacity and a good engine spec.

“We envisage we will probably sell 300 to 400 a year, so in overall volume it’s not massive, but the types of people who buy it will be similar to what the old Shogun Sport used to do, the likes of telecommunications companies with masts to maintain – it’s perfect for them.”

In contrast to the workhorse Shogun Sport, the L200 Barbarian SVP II pick-up aims to woo buyers with flamboyant features including orange wheels and exterior detailing. Its colour scheme is inspired by a one-off truck produced for the Fast & Furious stunt-driving arena tour. Only 250 will be produced, half with a mainly black exterior and the other half in grey.

A 2.4-litre diesel engine is paired with a six-speed manual or five-speed automatic gearbox, and prices start from £30,135, excluding VAT.

Messenger said it followed the success of the first SVP model launched 12 months ago.
“It’s a bit far fetched in terms of appearance, but that’s what people like,” he said. “The market trend is going towards a big and bold statement, so this sort of thing will appeal to people.”



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