Our first look at the next-gen Delica? Mitsubishi's D:X PHEV previews a new hybrid off-road people mover and why Australia stands a good chance for a production version

Mitsubishi has showcased what looks to be a concept version of its next-gen Delica people mover at the Japan Mobility Show.

The D:X concept is described as an “electrified crossover MPV” with tough, boxy off-road styling, and promises “the powerful and comfortable driving performance of a PHEV with no limits to the activities it can take on”.

Previewed with a hinged set of front doors and a sliding set of rear doors in a six-seat layout, the D:X also has extremely short overhangs, front and rear skid plates, and side-step sliders to sell its off-road prowess.

The D:X also shows a new interpretation of the brand’s signature ‘Dynamic Shield' styling language, conveyed through its T-shaped LED light profile. The hue chosen for the show car is said to be “a luxurious glamping inspired copper”.

Inside, the D:X scores what’s described as a ‘monobox’ interior designed to maximise space for occupants, and has middle-row seats which can fully rotate to make a lounge-style area. To continue to sell its off-road intention, the D:X has a camera-based 'see-through hood' to allow the driver to see the terrain directly in front of the car and the turn angle of the tyres.

Mitsubishi says the pillar design is a continuation of the 'rib-bone frame' which is part of the safety offering in the current Delica D:5.

When it comes to the drivetrain, the D:X is said to be a plug-in hybrid with the brand’s ‘super-all-wheel-control’ AWD software, building on the moderate off-road abilities the Outlander PHEV possesses.

While the current Delica D:5 uses a 2.2-litre turbo-diesel engine (essentially a down-sized version of the Triton’s 2.4-litre unit), Mitsubishi did not reveal further details for the D:X powertrain.

The D:X is our first look at the long-speculated next-generation Delica, with the brand recently telling Australian media that any next-generation people mover would need to be sold in export markets like Australia if it were to be commercially viable. As it is the D:5 is moderately successful, but is only sold in its home market of Japan.

Despite this, the Delica has a long history as a popular grey import Down Under, as it offers people mover practicality with rare off-road capabilities. Speaking to Australian media earlier in 2023, the brand’s global CEO Takao Kato explained there had been a surge in demand for the current D:5 from Australian dealers.

"Before, we introduced the Delica to Australian dealers, four, five years ago. But recently, many are saying 'I want Delica!' so peoples' preferences have changed. I think there's a chance for that in Australia," he said, although explained alongside other Japanese executives that the dated platform of the current D:5 could result in a less than maximum five-star ANCAP safety rating to the current, stringent standards.

A production version of the D:X could be exactly what the brand needs to help it avoid a three-car line-up in Australia and commit further to what it calls “Mitsubishi-ness” as the popular ASX and Eclipse Cross small SUVs reach the end of their life-cycles. Both are expected to be pulled from sale in Australia before 2026, and there are no obvious replacements on the horizon.

Mitsubishi is also considering launching its tiny electric kei-class city car, the eK-X EV as a unique product in our market, although it could be quite niche with a 200km driving range and diminutive dimensions, as well as what executives expect to be a three-star ANCAP rating.

Next for Mitsubishi in Australia is the highly-anticipated launch of the next-generation Triton, due early 2024. It will account for much of the brand’s volume in the coming years as the brand faces a delay in replacing its most popular passenger car models.