Even though it isn’t sold outside Japan, we couldn’t get enough of the Mitsubishi Delica Mini. So much so that when we saw it in person back in 2023, we were giddy and excited to see it in the metal.
But just two years after it was released, the little kei car already has a full model change. Yes folks, there’s an all-new Delica Mini about to hit showrooms in Japan soon.
At first glance, it looks like a heavy facelift of the current model. While the panels look similar from before, it’s totally been redesigned under the skin. Why this soon, you ask? That’s thanks to Nissan who also released the new-generation Roox. Given that the Roox and Delica Mini are related, and the fact that Nissan and Mitsubishi are in an alliance, both decided to hit two birds with one stone.
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We won’t blame you if you’re skeptical about it being an all-new car, but there are several key differences on the outside. At the front, it has a blockier grille and the bumpers get a more rugged look. And as if the outgoing model wasn’t boxy enough, this new one gets an even flatter nose.
However, there are far more changes when you turn the car to its side. There’s now a distinct character line that kicks up in the middle the drops down again towards the rear. The fender also gets a bulge thanks to the new headlight design, and the body cladding spells out Delica on the rear door rather proudly.
As for the rear, there’s a new bumper design that features a more SUV-look, and the high-mounted tail lights get a smoked effect. Then there’s the rearmost window that’s now much bigger than before. Then there’s the rearmost window that’s now much bigger than before.
Inside, the Delica Mini has been given a thorough redesign. The dash now incorporates a sizable storage bin, while the zircon vents are neatly integrated in the dashboards slats. Also, the steering wheel design is a neat throwback to the ‘80s with its two-spoke design.
Mitsubishi claims best-in-class interior space, and the infotainment screen is now larger at 12.3 inches. Speaking of the infotainment system, it also has Google Assistant built-in for added convenience. Lastly, the seats have stretchable fabrice for greater comfort, said Mitsubishi.
Interestingly, Mitsubishi added drive modes to the Delica Mini. While it won’t turn it into a Pajero, it does include Power, Eco, Normal, Gravel, and Snow modes. It’s a feature that should pair up well with the optional all-wheel drive system, although it’s standard even in the two-wheel drive model. Of course, advanced driver assists, such as adaptive cruise control and lane keep assist, are included.
Engine specs for the Delica Mini have yet to be made official. However, customers are likely to choose between a 658cc three-cylinder engine with 51hp and 60Nm, or a turbocharged version of the 658cc engine that makes 63hp and 100Nm. The only transmission option is a CVT.
Mitsubishi also launched another kei car alongside the Delica Mini. Dubbed the eK Space, it’s actually the model that the Delica Mini is based upon. It has a ‘friendlier’ front end and the body cladding is absent. It uses the same mechanicals as its more rugged-looking sibling, right down to the engine. The interior design is also identical, and the same goes for most of its exterior panels. The eK Space also benefits from a drive mode selector, but it loses gravel and snow models.
The Mitsubishi Delica Mini and eK Space will reach showrooms in Japan before the end of the year. By then, we might be able to take a closer look at these new kei cars once they’re on display at the upcoming Japan Mobility Show this October.
Oh, and the best part is, the Delimaru mascot is still around for the second-gen Delica Mini. We’d totally get one of these if we could.
