Update: We’ve added live photos of the wacky off-road Mitsubishi concept minivan from the show.
A potential Mitsubishi Delica of the future has been previewed with the unveiling of the dramatic Mitsubishi D:X Concept at the Japan Mobility Show in Tokyo. While the bold plug-in hybrid maintains a resemblance to Delicas of the past, being a concept, it embraces a more extravagant and over-the-top design.
Mitsubishi describes the D:X Concept as an electrified crossover MPV that is said to combine the large cabin of an MPV with the road handling of an SUV. The exterior design has a reinterpretation of the firm’s current Dynamic Shield front fascia with a skid plate and LED daytime running lights positioned at the base of the windshield.
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The firm’s designers have then created a set of study fenders for the D:X Concept to “convey a sense of strength” and finished the entire exterior in a striking shade of copper inspired by luxurious glamping. The concept also sports a large storage box on the roof and has T-shaped LED lights at the rear to complement those at the front.
Mitsubishi has conceived the new-age Delica as a six-seater with a 2+2+2 seating arrangement. The front seats can spin around and there is a see-through hood that works in conjunction with VR to show what is directly in front of the wheels. The D:X Concept also rocks a flat-bottomed and flat-topped steering wheel clad in brown leather with a central screen to display important vehicle information. There is also a digital instrument cluster and an interactive AI-powered concierge.
Yamaha has also played a role in the creation of the D:X Concept, developing a special audio system that includes speakers in the headrests. Few details have been provided about the concept’s powertrain but Mitsubishi says it has an environmentally friendly PHEV with an electric 4WD system.
“The Mitsubishi D:X Concept is a concept car that brings together the best of Mitsubishi Motors’ technologies – our electrification and all-wheel control technologies in particular – with a view to realizing a carbon-neutral society,” Mitsubishi Motors president and chief executive officer Takao Kato said at the concept’s unveiling. “We will continue to provide fulfilling mobility lifestyles that awaken the adventurous spirit of drivers and provide excitement for everyone on board.”
You can check out all the debuts from the 2023 Japan Mobility Show at our dedicated news hub here.