The World of Small Trucks
While America competes in producing ever-larger pickups, Japan remains faithful to its compact champions. The trend for miniature trucks continues with the updated Mitsubishi Minicab Truck, which follows its close relatives: the Suzuki Carry, Nissan Clipper Truck, and Mazda Scrum Truck.
Updated Design
The fourth member of this quartet completes the set with a practically identical design, where the only real difference is the Mitsubishi logo on the grille and steering wheel. This means new headlights, a split grille, and an updated bumper with an air intake, making the exterior sharper compared to the previous model.
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Construction and Equipment
The rest of the 3,395 mm long body remains unchanged, with a single-cab layout, 12-inch steel wheels, and a detachable cargo bed. The most equipped G trim adds fog lights and chrome door handles, while darkened LED headlights are standard across the entire lineup.
Safety and Technology
The update makes this tiny workhorse compliant with the latest safety standards in Japan, which was the main goal of the facelift. To achieve this, Mitsubishi installed an updated forward collision mitigation system with pedestrian detection, as well as a lane departure prevention system, automatic high beams, traffic sign recognition, and a false start prevention system. The latter helps prevent sudden forward movement if the driver accidentally presses the accelerator instead of the brake.
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Interior and Options
Inside, the two-seat cab does without a full-fledged multimedia system, although a radio is available from the mid-level trim. The driver gets a digital instrument panel, manual climate control, a length-adjustable driver’s seat, two USB ports, and a large number of storage compartments designed for people who actually use their trucks for work.
Optional accessories include LED work lights for the cargo bed, window visors, a roof rack, and various rear deck configurations.
Engine and Capabilities
The cab-over-engine layout remains with the familiar 658cc three-cylinder engine hidden under the seats. It produces 50 hp and 59 Nm of torque, which is enough to carry up to 350 kg of cargo without complaint. Buyers can choose between a five-speed manual transmission or a four-speed automatic.
Also Read: Mazda Scrum Knows How You Like It: Slow, Cubed, and with a Manual
Drivetrain and Price
Power is sent to the rear wheels as standard, or to all four via a full-time all-wheel-drive system with a transfer case that has a low-range gear and a mud/sand assist function. Paired with low weight and a short wheelbase, this setup should make the truck more capable off the asphalt than one might assume from its modest power.
The 2026 Mitsubishi Minicab Truck is already available for order in Japan at prices ranging from ¥1,311,200 to ¥1,677,500 depending on configuration. At the base level, it is cheaper than the Nissan, but still more expensive than the equivalents from Mazda and Suzuki.
Mitsubishi
These compact trucks continue to be an important part of the Japanese automotive landscape, demonstrating that efficiency and functionality do not always require large dimensions. Their popularity among small businesses and in rural areas highlights the uniqueness of a market where practicality, maneuverability in tight urban conditions, and low operating costs are prioritized. The appearance of an updated model with a focus on safety shows that manufacturers are adapting even such traditional and simple vehicles to modern requirements, while preserving their core essence and affordability.