Is this the 2025 Mitsubishi Delica hybrid, and could it come to Australia?

Ahead of the 2023 Japan Mobility Show (previously the Tokyo Motor Show), Mitsubishi has released a teaser image of a concept that will be on display.

Described as an “electrified crossover MPV”, it’s likely what we’re seeing here is the next-generation ‘D:6’ Delica that may very well make its way to Australia.

The CGI image shows a tall one-box vehicle sliding through sand with narrow LED taillights and a roof box. Mitsubishi says the vehicle is based on “the concept of Borderless Adventure” with a spacious and open cabin design.

Like the current Delica D:5 (that launched in 2007), the concept car is four-wheel drive with generous ground clearance and provisions for chunky all-terrain tyres.

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Mitsubishi describes the ‘Delica’s’ all-wheel drive system as an electric one. Presumably, this would be borrowed from the capable plug-in hybrid Outlander medium SUV. There are also various drivetrain modes mentioned, something already found on Outlander plug-in hybrids.

We know the concept that Mitsubishi will show isn’t a pure EV, as the brand promises there are “no limits to the destinations it can reach”.

Mitsubishi's also spruiking a comfortable and insulated driving experience on all surfaces, suggesting it won’t ride on a ladder-frame chassis. It’s possible a new Delica would adopt the same CMF-C/D platform found under the Outlander SUV, and use that car’s powertrains.

The Mitsubishi off-road concept will be on display at the Japan Mobility Show from October 25.

Delica’s return to Australia?

The Delica is a Japan-only proposition in its current form after local sales ceased in 1999, though there’s clearly a local appetite for the rugged people-mover as grey imports are prevalent.

Mitsubishi Australia has a current D:5 Delica in Adelaide as an exercise to “explore as a concept, whether it would be of interest in the context of the Australian market”, according to Mitsubishi Oz boss of marketing and product strategy Oliver Mann.

The brand has no intentions of bringing the current vehicle to Australia owing to safety rating concerns. The next-gen though? With the Australian public’s renewed interest in local tourism, it could be a hit...

The Mitsubishi Australia team will be keeping a close eye on Delica developments, with 2025 being the year things may begin to happen.