Is Mitsubishi’s New Delica Mini Its Most Adorable Creation Ever?
The compact, adventure-styled minivan is expected to launch later this year with a starting price of under $21,000 (converted from Japanese yen).
Americans may have a new reason to be jealous of Japan. Mitsubishi has just unveiled the 2026 Delica Mini, along with its mechanically similar sibling, the eK Space. These pint-sized, rugged-looking minivans might be the most charming vehicles the brand has ever produced—easily out-cuteing the U.S. market’s Outlander Sport. Scheduled to arrive in dealerships this fall, both models feature subtly updated styling, a technology-focused cabin, and a playful surprise sure to delight kids, pet owners, and collectors alike.
Pugnacious, Rugged New Styling
Embracing the “skyscraper theory,” the new Delica Mini maximizes its kei-car dimensions by going vertical, resulting in Mitsubishi’s so-called “super-tall mini wagon.” The effect is both practical and endearing. Featuring two standard front doors and a pair of sliding rear doors, the minivan adopts a flatter beltline compared to its predecessor, while a mid-body crease adds a tougher, more rugged character. Mitsubishi also repositioned and slimmed down the split A-pillar, improving outward visibility and reducing the sense of confinement—all while enhancing the van’s delightfully boxy appeal.
Up front, the Delica Mini wears a grille with four flared openings flanking the Mitsubishi badge, while the brand’s familiar “Dynamic Shield” design cues have been pleasantly dialed back—gone are the chrome pretend brush guards. Square fog lights paired with semi-circular headlights give the van a face reminiscent of the Land Rover Defender, though the Delica Mini is far from an off-road warrior. Its contrasting wheel arches and rocker panels may be painted or plastic-clad—it’s hard to tell—but either way they add a toughened look. The front and rear “skid plates” seem more suited to fending off parking-lot curbs than boulders, yet with an expected starting price of about 1.95 million yen (roughly $13,300 at today’s rates), the Delica Mini hits a sweet spot of charm and value.
Adorable Cabin, Clever Features
Inside, the Delica Mini has received a major refresh. Top-tier trims come equipped with a 12.3-inch infotainment screen, integrated into a “monolith” that also houses a standard 7.0-inch digital instrument cluster. Mitsubishi highlights the cabin’s highly stretchable upholstery, which allows seats to comfortably mold to each passenger’s shape, while both front and rear seats can fold flat to accommodate a variety of cargo—or curious passengers of all sizes. The Delica Mini also debuts Mitsubishi’s first three-dimensional surround-view camera and a “transparent hood” feature, giving drivers a clear view of what’s under the vehicle—a handy tool for light off-road adventures.
Those who pre-order a Delica Mini—before the official on-sale date, which hasn’t yet been announced—will receive an adorable plush mascot named Delimaru. This foot-tall stuffed bulldog mirrors the van’s face and comes in four colors, a charming incentive that might sway even the most practical buyers. The Delica Mini starts at roughly 1.95 million yen (about $13,300), while a fully equipped flagship model with optional all-wheel drive is expected to cost around 2.95 million yen ($20,100). Mitsubishi has not yet confirmed powertrain details, but the new model is likely to carry over the 658cc (0.7-liter) inline-four from the previous Delica Mini, producing either 51 horsepower naturally aspirated or 63 horsepower with a turbo.
