Mitsubishi Canter
Used Car Review

Overview

Looking for a reliable commercial truck that can handle serious work? The Mitsubishi Canter might be the perfect solution for your business needs. This robust light commercial vehicle has earned a reputation for dependability and versatility, making it a popular choice among small business owners and fleet operators. Whether you need to transport goods across town or tackle challenging off road terrain, the Canter delivers the capability you need.

From first glance, the Canter commands respect with its sturdy construction and purposeful design. Unlike passenger vehicles, this truck is built purely for work, with a focus on durability over luxury. The cab over design maximizes cargo space while keeping the overall length manageable for urban deliveries. Rivals like the Isuzu NPR and Ford Transit chassis cab offer similar capabilities, but the Canter stands out with its excellent build quality and proven reliability record.

Driving the Canter feels reassuring and controlled. The diesel engines provide strong pulling power for heavy loads, while the robust chassis handles challenging conditions with confidence. The turning circle is surprisingly tight for a commercial vehicle, making it practical for narrow streets and tight loading bays. While it may not offer car like comfort, the Canter excels where it matters most delivering dependable performance day after day, year after year.

What's the Mitsubishi Canter Like to Drive?

The Mitsubishi Canter is powered by efficient diesel engines designed for commercial duty. The 3.0 litre turbocharged diesel produces around 150 horsepower, delivering strong torque at low revs for excellent pulling power. This makes it ideal for carrying heavy loads or towing trailers up steep hills. The engine feels unstressed even when fully loaded, maintaining smooth power delivery throughout the rev range. Fuel economy is impressive for a commercial vehicle, typically achieving 25 to 30 MPG depending on load and driving conditions.

Where the Canter truly excels is in its robust driving characteristics. The commercial truck steering is precise and well weighted, giving you confidence when manoeuvring in tight spaces. The suspension is tuned for load carrying rather than passenger comfort, but it handles bumps and potholes without drama. The available four wheel drive system transforms the Canter into a capable off road workhorse, perfect for construction sites or rural deliveries. The low range gearing allows you to crawl over difficult terrain with complete control.

Inside the Mitsubishi Canter: Comfort & Features

Step into the Canter’s cab and you’ll find a functional, no nonsense interior designed for daily commercial use. The dashboard layout is straightforward and intuitive, with clearly marked controls that you can operate while wearing work gloves. The seats are supportive and built to withstand heavy daily use, though they lack the refinement you’d find in a passenger car. Storage compartments throughout the cab provide space for paperwork, tools, and personal items.

The driving position is upright and commanding, giving excellent visibility in all directions. This high seating position helps when reversing into loading bays or navigating busy traffic. Road noise is well controlled for a commercial vehicle, making longer journeys more comfortable. Standard equipment includes air conditioning and a basic radio system, though don’t expect luxury features like heated seats or premium audio. The focus here is on durability and practicality rather than comfort.

The Mitsubishi Canter succeeds by focusing on what commercial users need most reliability, capability, and value for money. It may not win awards for luxury or sophistication, but it delivers dependable performance in challenging conditions. The robust construction and proven diesel engines provide the confidence that your business can rely on this truck day after day.

Nicholas Zapolski Car Expert

How Much Does It Cost to Run a Mitsubishi Canter?

For a commercial vehicle, the Mitsubishi Canter offers reasonable running costs that help protect your bottom line. The efficient diesel engine delivers impressive fuel economy, typically achieving 25 to 30 MPG depending on your load and driving conditions. This translates to lower fuel bills compared to larger commercial vehicles. Insurance costs are moderate for the commercial vehicle class, though rates will depend on your business use and driving record.

The initial purchase price reflects the Canter’s commercial grade construction and proven reliability. While more expensive than basic panel vans, you’re investing in a vehicle built to handle serious work loads day after day. Servicing costs are reasonable, and the widespread dealer network ensures parts availability. Many operators find the Canter’s reliability reduces downtime and unexpected repair bills. Commercial vehicle finance options are available to spread the cost, making it easier for small businesses to afford quality equipment.

Mitsubishi Canter Practicality & Boot Space

The Mitsubishi Canter excels in practical capability, which is exactly what commercial users demand. Payload capacity ranges from 1,500 to 3,500 kilograms depending on the model you choose, allowing you to carry substantial loads legally and safely. The chassis cab design provides maximum flexibility for body conversions, whether you need a flatbed, box body, or specialized equipment mounting. The tight turning circle makes it surprisingly maneuverable for urban deliveries and narrow loading areas.

For businesses requiring genuine off road capability, the four wheel drive models open up possibilities that standard commercial vans simply cannot match. Construction companies, utility providers, and rural businesses particularly benefit from this versatility. While passenger accommodation is basic, the Canter serves its intended market perfectly. Compared to other used commercial vehicles, the Canter offers an excellent balance of capability, reliability, and running costs that keeps businesses moving efficiently.

The Mitsubishi Canter stands out in the competitive light commercial vehicle market by offering genuine truck capability in a manageable package. It combines robust construction, efficient diesel power, and proven reliability into a commercial vehicle that businesses can depend on. While it may not offer car like refinement, it excels in the areas that matter most to commercial users durability, payload capacity, and low running costs.

You choose the Canter because you need a commercial vehicle that works as hard as you do. Its impressive payload capacity, available four wheel drive, and tight turning circle make it suitable for a wide range of business applications. Whether you’re making urban deliveries or tackling challenging off road work sites, the Canter provides the capability and reliability your business demands. For commercial users seeking dependable transportation, the Mitsubishi Canter deserves serious consideration, especially when considering commercial vehicle finance options to make the purchase more manageable.