by Preparing for the Auto Show
Mitsubishi is actively preparing for a large-scale presentation at the 2026 Tokyo Motor Show, where the main stars will be modified versions of the recently updated Delica Mini and Delica D:5 models. Despite rumors about the possible return of the legendary Pajero, which intensified after a recent teaser, the company is refraining from commenting on the topic for now. Instead, it is focusing on organizing the so-called “Delica Festival.”
Announcements and Concepts
The company announced the Delica Festival, which will feature 11 exhibition vehicles. Among the key exhibits will be Ultimate Gear, Camper, and Wild Adventure versions. The Delica Mini will also receive a retro Pajero face thanks to a styling package from Damd.
The first thing that will catch visitors’ eyes is the slightly aggressive, wide-eyed character on the roof luggage carrier of the Delica Mini. This is Delimaru, the official mascot of the kei car. The “Delimaru Festa” concept is executed in a black-white-red color scheme and sits on retro-style wheels.
Ultimate Gear and Active Camper Series
Next are the “Ultimate Gear” versions for the Delica Mini and D:5. These concepts actively emphasize a rugged, off-road look thanks to matte black accents on the body kits and rear, as well as bold two-tone paint. Power bumpers, beadlock-style wheels with off-road tires, lift kits, and roof carriers equipped with LED panels complete the list of updates for travel.
Also on display will be “Active Camper” versions for the same pair of models. The Delica D:5 is wrapped in a film resembling white birch wood, combined with a brown interior, and equipped with a protective bumper, powerful off-road wheels, and an awning. The Delica Mini is equipped with even more camping gear, including a pop-up roof, an LED panel, mud guards, a compact underbody protection, and a portable side awning.
Wild Adventure Series and Damd Styling
The “Wild Adventure Style” versions bring the concepts closer to what can actually be ordered on the Japanese market. They are equipped with original Mitsubishi accessories available through official channels. The Delica D:5 has a flat roof carrier, mud guards, and a stainless steel rear underbody guard, while the Mini is decorated with camouflage stickers, a smaller roof carrier, and red mud guards.
Another headline act will be the Delica Mini with the Dali styling kit from Japanese tuner Damd. The kei car received a redesigned radiator grille and round headlights inspired by the classic Mitsubishi Pajero, along with its own decals, a roof basket, and custom wheels.
Rally Heritage and Special Models
The motorsport part of the lineup will be represented by Mitsubishi’s championship-winning Ralliart Triton AXCR — a rally off-roader that won the overall victory at the 2025 Asia Cross Country Rally. Alongside it at the exhibition will be the Delica D:5 ACXR support vehicle and a special version of the Delica Mini in matching livery to celebrate the 55th anniversary of the Tomica brand.
There remains hope that Mitsubishi’s press conference at Makuhari Messe on January 9 will bring news about the Pajero, possibly shedding light on the identity of the lightly camouflaged off-road prototype shown in a recent anniversary video.
The focus on the Delica lineup, especially the compact Mini, demonstrates the brand’s strategy to strengthen its presence in the versatile and compact car market with elements of an active lifestyle. The emphasis on accessories and ready-made packages for camping and adventure indicates a clear understanding of modern consumption trends, where the car becomes part of leisure. At the same time, deliberately avoiding the topic of the Pajero during such a large-scale event could be both a marketing move to maintain intrigue and evidence that work on a full-fledged model return is still ongoing and not ready for announcement. In any case, the Japanese manufacturer shows that even without loud announcements of new products, it can create an interesting and diverse exhibition based on the existing model range.
