Mitsubishi's Fresh Kei Van Embraces Strong Pajero Spirit
In autumn 2025, Mitsubishi Motors unveiled a new generation of the Delica Mini and eK Space on the Japanese market, marking a significant evolution for these popular kei cars.
The new Delica Mini showcases a bold redesign, featuring Defender-style semicircular LED graphics, a Jeep-inspired grille, revised bumper, and body-colored Dynamic Shield elements. The hood, front fenders, and doors are more sculpted than before, and the upper corner of the windshield has been moved forwards by 115 mm (4.5 inches). The new design retains signature elements of its predecessor but has nearly every exterior panel reworked.
Under the hood, the specifications of the new Delica Mini have yet to be announced, but the outgoing model was powered by a three-cylinder 658 cc gasoline engine. Power is transmitted exclusively through a CVT automatic gearbox, to either the front wheels (FWD) or all four wheels (full-time 4WD). The driver can choose among five modes (Power, Normal, Eco, Gravel, and Snow) depending on the terrain.
The interior of the new Delica Mini features a more modern digital cockpit with a 7-inch instrument cluster and a 12.3-inch infotainment integrated in the same panel. The cabin includes nicer materials, improved insulation, and more options for the configurable seating layout. Additionally, a wider suite of Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) and a 3D Multi Around Monitor that utilizes four camera sensors are available.
The new Delica Mini is priced between 1.95 million and 2.95 million yen ($15,000 - $20,000) in the Japanese market. Mitsubishi has also discontinued the eK Cross Space variant, making the Delica Mini the sole representative of the Delica lineup.
The eK Space, sharing the same underpinnings, interior, and a large portion of the sheet metal with the Delica Mini, is priced between ¥1.75-1.95 million ($11,800-13,100) in the Japanese market. The eK Space has a different front end, sits closer to the ground, and does without the plastic cladding and skid plates of its sibling.
Notably, the new Delica Mini and eK Space are closely related to the new Nissan Roox. This collaboration between Mitsubishi and Nissan highlights the ongoing efforts by Japanese automakers to optimise resources and develop competitive kei cars.
The new Mitsubishi kei cars, including the Delica Mini and eK Space, will be launched in autumn 2025, following their first appearance in spring 2023. The color palette for the new Delica Mini includes two new shades, Sand Beige Pearl and Denim Blue Pearl, available in single-tone and bi-tone configurations with a black roof.
In conclusion, the new Delica Mini and eK Space mark a significant step forward for Mitsubishi in the kei car segment. With their modern design, enhanced technology, and competitive pricing, these new models are poised to make a strong impact in the Japanese market.
