Driving the Mitsubishi Delica test:

The Mitsubishi Delica is a one-of-a-kind vehicle and until you experience one for yourself, you simply won’t understand. We have recently had the pleasure of adding a Delica to our fleet and here are our thoughts and opinions based on our real world experiences with our Delica.

At first glance, or more often a glance, the Mitsubishi Delica does not fit the typical vehicle on Canadian roads. It stands out and the screaming works on the form for all who see it. It may seem like a face only a mother could love, but once you get used to it, the style really grows on you. I hate to admit it, but I really like the way he looks now.

But that’s because I know what this vehicle has to offer. With a fuel-efficient 2.5L turbodiesel engine, the Delica is easy to drive with plenty of available torque, yet economical at the same time. That is if you don’t have a heavy foot.

Fuel economy

We have been driving an acceptable 20-25 MPG with a good combination of city and highway driving with our Mitsubishi Delica. This is the norm from what we’ve heard, with the highest numbers surpassing 30 MPG and the lowest just under 20 MPG.

Driving on the highway:

Driving on the highway is a different feeling in a Mitsubishi Delica, in fact driving a Delica in general is quite different due to the driving position “on the front wheels”. That’s right, your rear is just above the front wheels, placing you right in the middle of the pivot point for steering the vehicle. It’s a different feeling at first, almost like you’re riding on the hood of your car, but once you get used to it, it’s quite nice.

Interior and style:

Visibility is excellent, with large mirrors for every location you can’t see from the many large windows, including convex mirrors to be close to the front and rear of the vehicle.

The Mitsubishi Delica maintains its speed well, even with Maytag-designed aerodynamics, but don’t expect to get anywhere in a hurry. The Delica will get you (and the other 6 people in need of a ride) where you need to go economically and reliably, but you won’t win a race.

Performance:

On straight roads the Delica rides smoothly reaching speeds of 110-120 km / h with ease. The hills on the road are not that bad either, but the vehicle must be driven accordingly. Be prepared to be passed, as this vehicle was only able to reach an average speed of 80 km / h on the toughest hills of Coquihalla, BC, Canada. That said, this was not complete and the thermostat showed no signs of temperature rise under stress.

Lightweight glass roof option:

With the Crystal Light (sunroof) option, your passengers won’t miss any of the action and provides a great view of the stars if you decide to camp in your van. However, clearance is something to consider because the Mitsubishi Delica is quite tall.

Test drive conclusion:

The Delica is perfect for hitting the slopes with all your snowboard / ski gear, hitting the beach with your family and dogs, or camping at the top of a forest road that you wouldn’t dare climb without a 4×4.

Personally, I plan to roll out a larger wheel / tire set and aftermarket brush guard on our Delica so its rugged look is on par with what’s underneath its sheet metal.

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