by Update for the Delica D:5 Minivan
The Mitsubishi Delica D:5 minivan, which first appeared back in 2007, has received another update. Instead of a full-fledged new generation for 2026, the company decided to conduct another facelift, continuing the life of this unusual and durable model.
The updated model retains the general outlines of its predecessor, the familiar split LED headlights, and the Dynamic Shield front-end design. However, noticeable changes have affected the radiator grille, lower bumper, and skid plate protection, making the exterior sharper and hinting even more at off-road capabilities.
Exterior Changes
From the side, the model is distinguished by more pronounced wheel arch flares and black trim along the lower sills. All changes are complemented by a new set of 18-inch alloy wheels with seven spokes and a two-tone finish.
The rear has received an updated bumper with integrated skid plate protection and a new tailgate garnish with the name Delica in block letters. Overall dimensions remain the same: length 4800 mm and wheelbase 2850 mm.
Interior Updates
The most noticeable technical update inside is the new 8-inch digital instrument cluster. It works in tandem with the existing 10.1-inch multimedia system screen, which, as before, is located on the slanted center console. The cabin layout is unchanged: three rows of seats and space for eight passengers.
Other interior improvements include subtle metal accents on the dashboard, indirect ceiling lighting, and seat upholstery made from a mix of water-repellent suede, fabric, and leather. Four USB-C ports and updated driver assistance system (ADAS) sensors have also been added.
Accessory Packages
The minivan can be further personalized using genuine accessories and two optional packages. The Wild Adventure Style package adds black exterior accents, a new set of RAYS alloy wheels, red mud flaps, and a roof basket. The more sporty Active Adventure Style package includes Sand Metallic color accents, special decals, a rear spoiler, and a more aerodynamic roof box.
Engine and All-Wheel Drive System
Under the hood, the Delica D:5 retains the same 2.2-liter turbo-diesel engine, although its power is now 143 hp, and torque is 380 Nm, which is a slight decrease compared to the previous version.
The engine is paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive. Mitsubishi has refined the drivetrain with the Super-All Wheel Control (S-AWC) system, designed to improve traction and stability on challenging terrain.
The driver has access to Eco, Normal, Gravel, and Snow modes, as well as hill descent control and active yaw control (AYC) functions, along with more powerful brakes. The company did not mention any changes to the suspension or body-on-frame construction.
Pricing and Future Generation
The updated Mitsubishi Delica D:5 will appear at Japanese dealers in January 2026. Prices start from 4,510,000 yen (approximately $28,700) for the base G model and go up to 4,944,500 yen (about $31,500) for the P version. The Wild Adventure Style package adds 1,127,060 yen ($7,200), and the Active Adventure Style option costs 531,630 yen ($3,400).
According to the Japanese publication Creative Trend, after its presentation at the Japan Mobility Show, the prototype received 5000 pre-orders. Notably, 80 percent of these orders were for the top trim level. In Japan, the Delica D:5 is Mitsubishi’s second best-selling car after the smaller Delica Mini.
The Japanese publication Best Car spoke with Mitsubishi President Takao Kato, who confirmed that the possibility of creating a Delica D:6 is being considered. The next generation could receive either a plug-in hybrid or a fully electric powertrain, depending on the direction of development.
While there are no direct competitors offering the same mix of minivan and off-road readiness, the Delica D:5, in a broader sense, competes with more urban models such as the Toyota Noah/Voxy, Honda Step WGN, and Nissan Serena.
This latest facelift highlights the unique niche occupied by the Delica D:5 in the market. Its longevity and consistent demand, despite an outdated platform, indicate that the formula of combining minivan space with off-road capability remains unique and in demand, especially in the domestic Japanese market. The decision to develop a next generation suggests that Mitsubishi sees potential in further evolving this concept, adapting it to electrification trends. The success of pre-orders for the updated model makes it clear that the audience values precisely this specific combination of characteristics, which is hard to find in other cars.
