The rugged kei car returns with fresh styling and new tech, all while keeping its cheeky character
The Japanese kei car segment has always been fiercely competitive, pushing automakers to update their smallest models more often than larger vehicles. The Mitsubishi Delica Mini, introduced in spring 2023, is already set for a new generation arriving in autumn 2025. The refreshed version brings sharper styling, upgraded technology, and a revised chassis setup to keep pace with rivals.
At first glance, the new Delica Mini is instantly recognizable as it retains all of the signature elements of its predecessor. A closer look, though, shows that nearly every exterior panel has been reworked.
Redesigned Exterior
At the front, the headlights with the Defender-style semicircular LED graphics have grown larger, while the Jeep-inspired grille is thicker and has a protruding area around the emblem. The bumper has also been revised with body-colored Dynamic Shield elements, different intakes, and a more prominent skid plate.
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The hood, front fenders, and doors are more sculpted than before, while the upper corner of the windshield has been moved forwards by 115 mm (4.5 inches), giving it a more upright stance. Another important change is the solid D-pillar replacing the wraparound design of the previous model. Finally, the rear end features more modern LED taillights, a body-colored trim on the tailgate and a larger skid plate.
The color palette has been refreshed with two new shades, Sand Beige Pearl and Denim Blue Pearl, available in single-tone and bi-tone configurations with a black roof. The 3,395 mm (133.7 inches) long model retains the compact footprint of its predecessor and is in line with Japan’s kei car regulations.
The interior adopts a more modern digital cockpit with a 7-inch instrument cluster and a 12.3-inch infotainment integrated in the same panel. We also find nicer materials with a premium-looking beige trim, improved insulation, and more options for the configurable seating layout. Equipment includes a wider suite of ADAS and a 3D Multi Around Monitor that utilizes four camera sensors.
Mitsubishi has yet to announce the specs of the new Delica Mini, but the outgoing model is powered by a three-cylinder 658 cc gasoline engine. The mill generates 51 hp (38 kW / 52 PS) and 60 Nm (44 lb-ftr) of torque in naturally aspirated form, while the turbocharged version churns out 63 hp (47 kW / 64 PS) and 100 Nm (74 lb-ft). Power is transmitted to either the front (FWD) or all four wheels (full-time 4WD) exclusively through a CVT automatic gearbox.
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The driver can chose among five modes (Power, Normal, Eco, Gravel, and Snow) depending on the terrain. The kei car rides on new Kayaba Prosmooth shock absorbers which supposedly improve the ride quality together with a revised suspension setup which is different on 4WD models.
A Non-Rugged Companion
Mitsubishi has also unveiled the new generation of the eK Space. The tiny van shares the same underpinnings, interior, and a large portion of the sheet metal with the Delica Mini. However, it has a different front end, sits closer to the ground, and does without the plastic cladding and skid plates of its sibling.
The automaker has decided to discontinue the eK Cross Space variant which was made obsolete by the significantly more popular Delica Mini. The models are closely related to the new Nissan Roox that was also unveiled earlier today.
The market launch of Mitsubishi’s new kei cars in the Japanese market is scheduled for this autumn. The Delica Mini will be priced between ¥1.95-2.95 million ($13,100-19,900), while the eK Space will cost ¥1.75-1.95 ($11,800-13,100).
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Thanos Pappas, a product design engineer by trade, has been wading through automotive journalism for… Read full bio

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