It has been revealed that Mitsubishi Motors’ popular off-road minivan, the Delica D:5, will undergo a major minor change on December 18, 2025. The current Delica D:5, which is now in its 18th year since its debut in 2007, is a long-selling model that boasts enduring popularity, but this latest update will see major evolutions, including a major overhaul of the exterior design and the introduction of the latest 4WD system.
In this article, we will thoroughly explain the details of the Delica D:5 minor change, including price, equipment, and release date.
Order status and market trends
- Current model orders end : New orders will be suspended on May 22, 2025
- Inventory vehicle sales : Some grades are still being sold as inventory vehicles
- Sales performance : Maintained strong performance with 13,163 units sold in January-June 2025 (up 43.8% year-on-year)
Main changes and improvements
Major cosmetic changes
| item | Changes | detail |
|---|---|---|
| Front design | Dynamic Shield Improved | Incorporating popular design elements from the Delica Mini |
| Rear design | Bumper emblem change | New skid plate shape |
| Body color | New colors to be added | Details to be announced |
Enhanced functionality and equipment
| category | Changes | effect |
|---|---|---|
| 4WD system | AWC → S-AWC | Equipped with four drive modes |
| safety equipment | Significant addition of sensors | Front and rear corner sensors restored |
| Infotainment | 12.3-inch display | Large screen equivalent to the Outlander |
| meter | Fully digitalized | Supports a variety of information displays |
List of major changes to the Delica D:5 minor change
The new Delica D:5 will feature an evolved version of Mitsubishi’s latest design identity, the Dynamic Shield. This incorporates design elements that have been well received in the Delica Mini and Triton, and has the following features:
Exterior and design related
- New design adopted : Adopts the popular “Dynamic Shield” concept from the Delica Mini
- Major changes to the front face: More powerful and wild styling
- Renewed rear design : New design for tail lamp connection bar adopted
- Changed skid plate shape : New style adopted for both front and rear
Functions and equipment
- 4WD system evolution : Change from conventional “AWC” to latest “S-AWC”
- Equipped with four drive modes: Eco, Normal, Gravel, and Snow.
- Digital meter : Supports a wide range of information displays
- Enhanced safety equipment :
- Bicycle detection function
- False start prevention function when reversing
- Preceding vehicle departure notification function
- Corner sensors added (front and rear)
- Improved navigation and monitor : 12.3-inch display, improved rear camera image quality
Differences from conventional AWC
- More precise electronic control
- Optimal distribution according to road conditions
- Improved fuel efficiency
- Improved stability
Grade structure
- “M” grade abolished : Entry grade streamlined
- Special edition vehicles : “Chamonix” and “Black Edition” are temporarily not available
Delica D:5 minor change | Engine and powertrain
Engine
As with the current model, the new car will continue to use the 2.2L inline 4-cylinder turbo diesel engine . Some sources suggest that it may be replaced with the 2.4L diesel engine used in the Mitsubishi Triton, but at present, it is likely that the 2.2L engine will continue.
Current engine specs:
- Maximum output: 145ps/3500rpm
- Maximum torque: 38.7kgm/2000rpm
- Transmission: 8-speed automatic
- Drive system: 4WD only
Evolution of 4WD systems
The biggest highlight is the evolution of the 4WD system from the conventional “AWC” to the latest “S-AWC (Super All Wheel Control)”, which adds the following functions:
- Four drive modes : optimal drive force distribution according to road conditions
- High-precision electronic control : More natural and stable traction control
- Improved fuel economy : Efficient distribution of driving force improves fuel economy
Delica D:5 minor change | Price information
Expected price range
After the minor change, the Delica D:5 is expected to see a price increase of around 250,000 to 500,000 yen .
| grade | Current price | Estimated Price | Increase |
|---|---|---|---|
| G | 4.32 million yen | 4.57 million yen | +250,000 yen |
| G-Power Package | 4.56 million yen | 5.06 million yen | +500,000 yen |
| P | 4.67 million yen | 5.17 million yen | +500,000 yen |
| URBAN GEAR G | 4.45 million yen | 4.7 million yen | +250,000 yen |
| URBAN GEAR G-Power Package | 4.69 million yen | 5.19 million yen | +500,000 yen |
The price increases due to the extensive equipment, but considering the uniqueness and one-of-a-kind value of the Delica D:5, it can be said to be a reasonable price.
Reasons for the price increase
- S-AWC system installation cost
- Digital meter and large display
- Enhanced safety equipment
- Inflation causing rising manufacturing costs
Grade structure changes
- “M” grade abolished : Entry grade reorganization
- Special edition vehicles : “Chamonix” and “Black Edition” are not available for the time being
- Final special edition vehicle : Scheduled to be set after minor change
Delica D:5 minor change | Release schedule
Important Dates
| season | Content | detail |
|---|---|---|
| May 22, 2025 | Current model orders closed | Already completed |
| October 2025 | Official announcement to be made | Possibility of exhibiting at the Tokyo Motor Show |
| December 2025 | Orders begin | Negotiations begin at the dealer |
| January-February 2026 | Sales and delivery start | Delivery of the first production run |
| Until the end of March 2026 | Release to be completed within fiscal year 2025 | Achieving the promise of release within the fiscal year |
Currently, only in-stock vehicles and specific grades can be ordered, and we are awaiting the official announcement of the new model.
Information that can be read from spy shot images
Development vehicle photographed in Aichi Prefecture
The following information has been revealed from spy shots taken at Nagashino Shitarahara Parking Area on the Shin-Tomei Expressway in Shinshiro City, Aichi Prefecture in early June 2025.
Delica MC? pic.twitter.com/nxeq29Mf9Y
— M Purple Person @BCNR33/RZ34 (@midnight_p_skyz) June 2, 2025
Changes you can see
- Camouflage : Only part of the rear tailgate and front bumper
- Body color : Black mica (existing color)
- Wheels : Same 18-inch aluminum wheels as the current model
- Number : Temporary number of Mikawa 10-23
Important findings
- Clearance sonar : Check the installation hole on the rear bumper
- Platform : No major changes suggested
- Interior color : Beige on the inside of the B-pillar (current model)
Why the Delica D:5 has been loved for 18 years
A unique character
The greatest appeal of the Delica D:5 is its unique presence, combining the elements of a minivan and an SUV . While other minivans are focused on city driving, the Delica D:5 differentiates itself with the following features:
- Genuine off-road performance : ground clearance 185mm, approach angle 21 degrees
- Outdoor-oriented design : a powerful and imposing exterior
- Perfect size : Between the Noah and Alphard
- Accommodates 7-8 passengers : responds to changing family structures
Strong sales performance
New car sales in 2024 will be 19,886 units (115.5% increase from the previous year), and 13,163 units (143.8% increase from the previous year) from January to June 2025, showing strong performance that is hard to believe for an 18-year-old model. Cumulative sales : Approximately 350,000 units (2007-2025)
Delica D:5 minor change | Comparison with competing models
Main competitors
- Toyota Noah/Voxy : A family minivan focused on city driving
- Honda Step WGN : Designed for convenience
- Nissan Serena : A hybrid minivan equipped with e-POWER
Advantages of the Delica D:5
- The only diesel 4WD minivan : Achieving both fuel efficiency and torque
- Full-scale off-road performance : Unrivaled off-road performance (minimum ground clearance 185mm)
- Unique design : differentiated by outdoor-oriented appearance
- Excellent fuel economy (13.6km/L)
Important points after minor changes
1. Common design elements with the Delica Mini
This minor change incorporates design elements from the popular Delica Mini to achieve a unified brand image and a more approachable appearance.
2. Enhanced advanced safety features
The addition of bicycle detection functionality and various sensors makes it safer and more secure for families to use.
3. Improved indoor comfort
The adoption of digital meters and a large-screen navigation system significantly improves information display and operability while driving.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Will there be a PHEV model? A: There will be no PHEV model in this minor change. Full-scale PHEV will be considered for the next full model change (around 2030).
Q: What impact will the trade-in price of the current model have? A: Due to its enduring popularity, the Delica D:5 has a relatively stable resale value. The impact of the minor change is expected to be limited.
Q: Will fuel economy improve? A: By adopting the S-AWC system, an improvement from the current 13.6km/L is expected.
Q: What impact will this have on resale value? A: The Delica D:5 has maintained stable used car prices due to its enduring popularity. This trend is expected to continue even after the minor change.
Q: Will there be a 7-seater or 8-seater configuration? A: As with the current model, both configurations are expected to continue.
summary
The 2025 minor change for the Mitsubishi Delica D:5 will be a major upgrade for this long-selling model, now in its 18th year. It will meet modern needs with a revamped exterior design, the adoption of the S-AWC system, and a full range of advanced safety features.
While a price increase is inevitable, the Delica D:5’s unparalleled value makes it an attractive choice for outdoor-oriented families.
The official announcement is scheduled for December 18, 2025, but those considering purchasing one are encouraged to gather information and consider the matter early. The Delica D:5 will no doubt continue to be loved by many fans as an all-around minivan.
Mitsubishi Motors D:5
