Would you drive the updated Mitsubishi Delica Mini?

MANILA: Mitsubishi Motors Corporation has unveiled the redesigned Delica Mini and its sister model, the eK Space, for the Japanese market. The two nameplates, which are classed as “kei cars,” will be sold in the Land of the Rising Sun by the end of October 2025. 

Per the manufacturer, the Delica Mini, in particular, is a crucial nameplate when it comes to its share of the Japanese Domestic Market (JDM). The model has seen 3,000 units sold per month since its initial introduction back in May 2023. Also, it won the Design Car of the Year award at the Japanese Car of the Year Awards for 2023-2024.

Powertrain

At the moment, Mitsubishi has yet to reveal the official specifications for the updated Delica Mini’s powertrain. However, the pre-facelifted version utilized a 658-cubic-centimeter (CC) gasoline three-cylinder engine paired with a continuously variable transmission. 

The turbocharged version can produce up to 63 horsepower (hp) and 100 Newton-meters (Nm) of torque, while the naturally-aspirated version can dish out 51 hp and 60 Nm of torque. 

For its mechanical improvements, the Japanese van-type kei car now boasts a drive mode selector with power, economy, normal, gravel, and snow. Likewise, a Grip control system was added for improved traction on slippery surfaces, as well as a new set of KYB Prosmooth shock absorbers for better ride quality and stability on various road surfaces. 

The nameplate is also available with a four-wheel (4WD) or two-wheel (2WD) drivetrain. 

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Exterior

A majority of the updates for the Mitsubishi Delica Mini were done for its exterior. For starters, the brand provided it with a pair of larger LED lamps. It also boasts a new upper grille, whereas its signature Dynamic Shield is now integrated with its front bumper. 

Likewise, the updated nameplate gained wider front and rear skid plates, a square-shaped LED taillight cluster, and a set of 15-inch alloy wheels (4WD). Otherwise, the model retains its square body shape, roof rails, and roof-mounted rear spoiler. 

Amenities, Safety

New to its five-seater interior are re-adjusted seats that can now fold flatter than before. The aforementioned, Mitsubishi indicated, is more relaxing for owners and can be more effectively used for space optimization. The A-pillar was also reconfigured to add 115 millimeters to the vehicle’s interior length. 

For its screens, the Delica Mini received a 12.3-inch infotainment system with built-in Google. The said display is paired with a seven-inch digital gauge cluster.

Key features of the infotainment system include, but are not limited to, the following: 

• Google Assistant
• Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
• Google Maps
• Google Play
• In-car Wifi connection

Other features that were carried over from the previous version include a two-spoke multi-function steering wheel, electronic parking brake, fabric and leather seats, and front seat ventilation - among others. 

Mitsubishi didn’t share the full list of the Delica Mini’s safety kit. Otherwise, it now boasts forward collision mitigation, added exterior sensors and cameras for pedestrian detection, blind-spot warning, lane change assist, and rear-cross traffic alert. 

For the first time ever, a Mitsubishi-made vehicle was equipped with active blind-spot assist. The model also received a three-dimensional around-view monitor supported by four cameras for each corner of the vehicle. 

Mitsubishi ek Space

Unveiled together with the Mitsubishi Delica Mini is the redesigned eK Space. Contrary to the outdoorsy Delica Mini, the said model boasts a sleeker design. Otherwise, it carries over the same feature set as the Delica Mini. 

Special features for the eK Space include a dashboard cargo tray (below the instrument cluster), as well as the “Plasmacluster” air-purification technology for its air-conditioning system. 

Availability

The Mitsubishi Delica Mini and eK Space will be sold in Japan starting on October 29. And being a kei car, it will likely be a JDM-only model. 

However, with its size and sheer amount of equipment, one can imagine that it will also be a good fit for the Philippine market. Local in-city roads and traffic, after all, can be tight. Plus, the Delica Mini’s size will make it easier to park.

There’s also the fact that the Delica Mini has somewhat more safety gear even than the locally-available seven-seater Xpander/Xpander Cross.

But despite its enticing qualities, the chances of seeing a Mitsubishi-made kei car being launched in the Philippines are pretty slim. Then again, many small car lovers are undoubtedly admiring the Delica Mini from afar. 

Also read:

Mitsubishi hailed as one of PH’s top importers for H1 2025

Mitsubishi Motors PH receives honors at GREEN Awards 2025

Mitsubishi refreshes PH-retailed Xpander lineup

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