Update: Mitsubishi Philippines just released the official power figures. Article as been updated (8/27).

Just like what they’ve done with the Lancer “box-type” in the 1980s, Mitsubishi Motors Philippines is about to mark the comeback of one of its most beloved icons: the L300. Discontinued last year due to the country’s shift to Euro 4 emission regulations, the L300 is back, this time sporting a cleaner, more powerful engine, and sadly a hefty price jump.

Mitsubishi dealers across the country is now accepting reservations for the L300 Euro 4. In order to comply with the new emissions standards, the Japanese carmaker has successfully shoehorned the 2.2-liter 4N14, an engine also used in the ASX, Eclipse Cross, Delica, and Outlander. Though MMPC has yet to reveal any official power and torque figures, they do promise “40 percent more torque and power and 10 percent more fuel efficiency” compared to the pre-CRDi L300. The sole transmission is a 5-speed manual. (UPDATE: an updated flyer now indicates the official power figures as: 99 horsepower @ 3,500 rpm and 200 Nm of torque @ 1,000-1,500 rpm.

Along with the new engine, Mitsubishi has increased the cab height of the L300 by 100 millimeters for improved visibility. Ground clearance remains the same at 195 mm.

Initially available in the “Exceed” body style, the L300 Euro 4 has bigger taillights, new sliding windows, re-contoured side panels, and a gutter-less roof design. Inside, it has a dual A/C system and a 17-seater seating capacity. It also features spray-on lining in the passenger compartment for easy upkeep, too.

The 2019 L300 Euro 4 Exceed is now being offered at P 998,000, a hefty increase from the previous model (P 806,000).  Yet, it puts it equal with the Kia Karga (P 998,000), but still cheaper than the Hyundai H-100 Shuttle (P 1,230,000).

2019 Mitsubishi L300 Exceed Euro 4 Specifications:

• Overall Length: 4,260 mm
• Overall Width: 1,695 mm
• Overall Height: 1,895 mm
• Wheelbase: 2,350 mm
• Ground Clearance: 195 mm
• Maximum Gross Vehicle Weight: 2,345 kg
• Curb Weight: 1,200 kg
• Payload: 1,145 kg
• Engine: 2.2 4N14 Euro 4 Compliant
• Maximum Power: 99 horsepower @ 3,500 rpm
• Maximum Torque: 200 Nm @ 1,000-3,500 rpm
• Fuel System: Electronic Common Rail Direct Injection
• Fuel Tank: 55 liters
• Front Suspension: Independent, Double Wishbone
• Rear Suspension: Semi-Elliptic Leaf Spring
• Front Brakes: 10-inch Ventilated Disc
• Rear Brakes: 10-inch Leading and Trailing Drums
• Steering: Ball-and-Nut Gear Type, Power Steering
• Steering Wheel: 2-spoke Polypropylene
• Tires: 185R14C-8PR
• Wheels: 14 x 5.0 J Steel Rims