The 2026 Delica D:5 keeps its off-road roots, adds subtle tech upgrades, and hints at an electric future with a new generation under consideration
Believe it or not, the Mitsubishi Delica D:5 has been soldiering on since its debut in 2007, with a facelift arriving in 2019. Rather than launching an all-new generation in 2026, Mitsubishi has opted for another refresh, extending the life of one of Japan’s most enduring and peculiar automotive staples.
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The updated model stays close to its predecessor in form, retaining the signature split LED headlights and the familiar Dynamic Shield front design. Even so, there are notable tweaks to the grille, lower bumper, and skid plate, sharpening the look and nudging it a step further into off-road territory.
From the side, the tweaks continue with more pronounced fender extensions and black trim along the lower skirts, all tied together by a new set of 18-inch alloy wheels featuring a seven-spoke design and bi-tone finish.
At the rear, the updates include a redesigned bumper with an integrated skid plate and a new tailgate trim bearing the Delica name in block lettering. The overall footprint remains familiar: 4,800 mm in length and a 2,850 mm wheelbase.
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Inside, the most notable tech upgrade is the new 8-inch digital instrument cluster. It joins the existing 10.1-inch infotainment screen, which still sits on the sloped center console. The interior layout holds steady with a three-row setup and seating for up to eight.
Additional interior enhancements include subtle metallic accents on the dashboard, overhead indirect lighting, and seat upholstery in a mix of water-repellent suede, fabric, and leather. There are also four USB-C ports and revised ADAS sensors.
The minivan can be further customized with genuine accessories and two optional packages. The Wild Adventure Style adds black exterior accents, a new set of alloy wheels from RAYS, red mud flaps, and a roof basket. The sportier Active Adventure Style includes Sand Metallic accents, special decals, a rear spoiler, and a more aerodynamic roof rack.
Diesel Engine and 4WD
Under the hood, the Delica D:5 continues with the same 2.2-liter turbodiesel engine, though it now makes 143 hp and 380 Nm of torque, a slight drop in output compared to the previous tune.
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The engine remains paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and standard 4WD. Mitsubishi has refined the drivetrain with its Super-All Wheel Control (S-AWC) system, designed to enhance traction and stability on rougher terrain.
The driver has access to Eco, Normal, Gravel, and Snow modes, in addition to hill descent control and brake Active Yaw Control (AYC) functions, and stronger brakes. Mitsubishi didn’t mention any changes to the suspension or the unibody chassis.
Pricing and a Much-Anticipated Successor
The 2026 Mitsubishi Delica D:5 will reach Japanese dealers in January 2026. Prices start at ¥4,510,000 (around $28,700 at current exchange rates) for the base G model, rising to ¥4,944,500 ($31,500) for the P grade. The Wild Adventure Style kit adds ¥1,127,060 ($7,200), while the Active Adventure Style option costs ¥531,630 ($3,400).
According to Japan’s Creative Trend, the prototype drew 5,000 pre-orders following its reveal at the Japan Mobility Show. Notably, 80 percent of these orders were for the top-spec variant. In Japan, the Delica D:5 is Mitsubishi’s second best-selling vehicle after the smaller Delica Mini.
Japanese outlet Best Car recently spoke with Mitsubishi President Takao Kato, who confirmed that a Delica D:6 is being considered. The next generation could incorporate either plug-in hybrid or fully electric drivetrains, depending on the direction of development.
While no direct rival offers the same blend of minivan utility and off-road readiness, the Delica D:5 competes in a broader sense with the more urban-focused Toyota Noah/Voxy, Honda Step WGN, and Nissan Serena.
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Thanos Pappas, a product design engineer by trade, has been wading through automotive journalism for… Read full bio
