The Mitsubishi Delica (Chinese name: 得利卡) is a multi-purpose vehicle (MPV) from Japanese carmaker Mitsubishi Motors, with its moniker coined from the words "Delivery Car". Since its debut in 1968, the model line has built an enviable global reputation with its unique proposition of being "equally capable of executive transport and tackling rugged terrain", clocking cumulative sales of over 1.38 million units. In Taiwan, China, the Delica was manufactured by China Motor Corporation and became a household name as "得利卡"; in Mainland China, its third-generation model was once produced by Soueast Motor and remains a familiar sight on roads today.
Positioned as a mid-size MPV, the Delica is an exceptionally rare "all-terrain off-road MPV" in the automotive market. Its primary selling point lies in seamlessly blending MPV cabin space with the go-anywhere capability of an SUV. Across more than five decades of evolution, the Delica has transitioned from a humble commercial van into a versatile lifestyle vehicle built for both leisure and adventure.
In terms of dimensions, the latest 2026 Delica D:5 measures 4,800 mm in length, 1,815 mm in width (widened by 20 mm), and 1,875 mm in height, with a 2,850 mm wheelbase. Ground clearance stands at 185 mm, and it is offered in both 7-seater and 8-seater configurations. In its domestic Japanese market, pricing ranges from 4,510,000 to 4,944,500 yen (approximately RM230,000 to RM250,000).
The 2026 Delica D:5 dials up its signature tough, go-anywhere styling. Up front, it sports a redesigned front grille alongside more sculpted front and rear bumpers. The most prominent exterior update is the 20 mm wider wheel arches paired with fresh 18-inch alloy wheels, delivering a sturdier, more commanding stance. A standout dual-tone colour scheme pairing "Moonstone Grey Metallic" with a contrasting black roof is also on offer.
Inside, the cabin injects a dose of modern tech and premium refinement into its rugged architecture. The headline upgrade is an all-new 8-inch full-colour digital instrument cluster. The seats are available in a practical combination of water-repellent suede-like upholstery and synthetic leather, tailored for outdoor lifestyles. The centre console and door card trims have also been upgraded with woodgrain accent panels to elevate cabin ambience.
Under the bonnet, the Delica D:5 is powered by the 4N14 2.2-litre inline-four common-rail turbodiesel engine. It churns out a maximum power of 107 kW (around 145 hp) and a peak torque of 380 Nm. Power is sent to the wheels via an 8-speed automatic transmission. The key strength of this turbodiesel setup lies in its muscular low-end torque, ensuring effortless pulling power when fully loaded or tackling off-road trails, all while delivering superior fuel economy over comparable petrol engines.
The chassis and 4WD system are what truly set the Delica apart from run-of-the-mill MPVs. The biggest technical headline for the 2026 model is the debut of Mitsubishi's renowned S-AWC (Super-All Wheel Control) system. This system comprehensively manages engine output, transmission, braking, and steering to dynamically distribute drive and braking torque across all four wheels, sharpening stability and handling across various surfaces. Drivers can toggle between four selectable drive modes via a rotary dial: ECO, NORMAL, GRAVEL, and SNOW. A Hill Descent Control (HDC) system is also standard to boost driver confidence on unpaved descents.
Cabin roominess remains another core advantage, with an interior length of 2,980 mm—ample room for an adult to lie flat and rest. It comes configured in either a 2+3+2 seven-seater or an eight-seater layout, with both the second and third rows mounted on long slide rails for generous fore-and-aft adjustment and versatile spatial flexibility. Dual powered sliding doors and a powered tailgate ensure effortless ingress, egress, and cargo loading.
On the comfort and convenience front, the MPV is equipped with dual-zone automatic climate control, heated front seats, and a heated steering wheel. A total of four USB Type-C charging ports have also been added across the cabin to keep everyone's devices powered on long journeys.
Safety equipment on the 2026 Delica D:5 has received notable upgrades. The on-board e-Assist active safety suite has been enhanced, with the Forward Collision Mitigation (FCM) system now gaining cyclist detection. The 360-degree surround-view monitor boasts a threefold increase in camera resolution and adds a "transparent chassis" view to help drivers navigate tight or tricky terrains with precision. Passive safety is well-catered for with a multi-airbag setup, covering dual front, side curtain, and driver's knee airbags. Additionally, Adaptive Cruise Control is also specified as standard on selected variants.
The Delica D:5 continues to post exceptionally robust sales figures in its domestic Japanese market. In March 2026, monthly registrations hit 3,699 units—setting a new record high and placing it 23rd on Japan's overall new car sales leaderboard. Even nearly two decades after this generation's debut, the nameplate maintains incredible market vitality.
Thanks to its distinctive "all-terrain MPV" proposition, the Delica is not only a cult favourite among outdoor lifestyle enthusiasts, but also a trusted family workhorse capable of handling varied daily driving conditions thanks to the sheer practicality of its 4WD system in severe weather. In China, while the latest Delica D:5 has not been officially distributed through official dealer networks, a limited number of left-hand-drive units have arrived via parallel import channels. Fusing the legendary Pajero's off-road DNA with the versatile practicality of an MPV, this unique people-mover continues to captivate a dedicated niche following.
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