Mitsubishi’s Tiny Delica Mini is the Kei Car Gig Workers Need

Mitsubishi’s 2025 Delica Mini is a mini marvel for Japan’s streets where space is scarce and efficiency is king. This kei car, redesigned for autumn 2025, packs a surprising amount of utility, style and innovation.

Mitsubishi has sharpened the Delica Mini’s exterior to stand out in a crowded kei car market. The front has bigger headlights with semicircular LED accents, a Defender-like look, and a thicker grille that proudly wears the Mitsubishi badge. A new bumper has body-colored Dynamic Shield elements, fresh air intakes and a prominent skid plate for a tougher stance. The hood and fenders now feature more sculpted lines, while the windshield shifts forward by 115 mm for a more upright profile. At the rear, new LED taillights and a bigger skid plate and a solid D-pillar replace the previous wraparound design for a cleaner look.

New colors like Sand Beige Pearl and Denim Blue Pearl, single-tone or bi-tone with a black roof, add some flair. This compact size is ideal for gig workers, as it allows them to easily navigate tight urban environments while delivering items or transporting supplies. The outside revamp is more than simply decorative; it’s a statement of flexibility, ready to face the daily grind.



Step inside, and the Delica Mini reveals a cabin that punches above its weight. A 7-inch digital instrument cluster and 12.3-inch infotainment screen are integrated into a single panel for a modern look. Improved insulation keeps the road noise out, premium beige trim makes long delivery shifts feel less like a chore. The seating layout is configurable for gig workers who need to stow cargo or equipment. Whether it’s food deliveries, craft supplies or tools for a mobile service, the Delica Mini’s interior adapts to the task.


Advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) and a 3D Multi Around Monitor with four video sensors improve safety and maneuverability, which are critical when traversing congested city streets. For gig workers, these features imply fewer collisions and easier parking in small spaces. The cabin’s combination of technology and convenience makes it an ideal mobile office for folks who work various side jobs.


Mitsubishi hasn’t announced the 2025 Delica Mini’s powertrain yet but the outgoing model’s specs are a good starting point. The 658 cc three-cylinder gasoline engine comes in two flavors: a naturally aspirated version with 51 hp and 60 Nm of torque or a turbocharged option with 63 hp and 100 Nm. Both come with a CVT automatic and either front wheel drive or full-time 4WD. Five modes—Power, Normal, Eco, Gravel and Snow—let you choose how you want to drive from city streets to rural roads. New Kayaba Prosmooth shock absorbers and a revised suspension mean a smoother ride, with 4WD models getting a unique setup for added stability.


Along with the Delica Mini, Mitsubishi also unveiled the new eK Space, a closely related van that shares the same platform and most of the Delica’s bodywork. Unlike its rugged sibling, the eK Space doesn’t have the plastic cladding and skid plates and sits lower to the ground with a different front end. It’s a more straightforward option for those who prioritize affordability over off-road ability. Priced between ¥1.75-1.95 million ($11,800-13,100) it’s cheaper than the Delica Mini’s ¥1.95-2.95 million ($13,100-19,900) range but for gig workers the Delica Mini’s more style and features make it the winner.

For gig workers the Delica Mini ticks all the boxes. Fuel efficient engine means cost savings for delivery apps or freelance gigs. Configurable cargo space for groceries to equipment, compact size for parking and city driving, Multi Around Monitor and ADAS to reduce stress in urban madness and modern interior for long shifts. And all for $13,100, it’s a bargain for a vehicle this capable – less than most compact SUVs or vans in other markets.
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