Is the Mitsubishi Delica the Most Fuel-Efficient Van? Find Out Now!
Discover the truth about the Mitsubishi Delica’s fuel efficiency! Is it the ultimate van for eco-conscious adventurers? Dive into our in-depth guide to learn about its impressive fuel tank capacities, efficiency ratings across generations, and why this versatile vehicle has captured the hearts of off-road enthusiasts and van lifers alike. Don’t miss out on the surprising facts that could change your perspective on this iconic van! read to find out more!
Fuel Tank Capacity
The fuel tank capacity of the Mitsubishi Delica has varied across different generations and models:
Standard Fuel Tank:
• Delica L300 (1986-1993): 48-75 liters (12.7-19.8 gallons)
• Delica L400 (1994-2006): 75 liters (19.8 gallons)
• Delica D5 (2007-present): 66 liters (17.4 gallons)
Long-Range Fuel Tank:
Some Delica owners opt for aftermarket long-range fuel tanks to extend their vehicle’s range. For example, a popular upgrade for the L400 model increases the fuel capacity from 75 liters to 125 liters (33 gallons).
Fuel Efficiency
The fuel efficiency of the Mitsubishi Delica varies depending on the model year, engine type, and driving conditions:
• Average fuel consumption: 9.5 L/100km (24.8 mpg)
• Delica D5 (2023 model): 7.1 L/100km (33.1 mpg) in mixed city and country driving
It’s important to note that these figures can vary significantly based on factors such as:
• Driving style
• Terrain
• Vehicle load
• Maintenance condition
• Use of four-wheel drive
Range
The range of a Mitsubishi Delica depends on its fuel tank capacity and fuel efficiency. Let’s calculate some approximate ranges based on the information we have:
L400 model with standard 75L tank:
• Range: approximately 789 km (490 miles)
(Calculation: 75L ÷ 9.5L/100km × 100)
L400 model with long-range 125L tank:
• Range: approximately 1,315 km (817 miles)
(Calculation: 125L ÷ 9.5L/100km × 100)
D5 model with 66L tank (2023 efficiency):
• Range: approximately 929 km (577 miles)
(Calculation: 66L ÷ 7.1L/100km × 100)
These ranges are theoretical and can vary significantly based on real-world driving conditions.
Efficiency Across Variants and Generations
The Mitsubishi Delica has seen several generations since its introduction in 1968. Let’s look at how efficiency has changed across these variants:
First Generation (1968-1979):
• Engine: 1.1L gasoline
• Power: 58-62 PS (57-61 HP)
• Fuel efficiency data not readily available
Second Generation (1979-1986):
• Engines: 1.4L, 1.6L, 1.8L gasoline; 2.3L diesel
• Introduction of 4WD option in 1982
• Fuel efficiency data not readily available
Third Generation (L300, 1986-1994):
• Engines: Various gasoline and diesel options
• Fuel tank capacity: 48-75 liters
• Average fuel consumption: Around 10-12 L/100km (19.6-23.5 mpg)
Fourth Generation (L400, 1994-2007):
• Engines: 2.4L gasoline, 2.5L diesel, 2.8L diesel
• Fuel tank capacity: 75 liters
• Average fuel consumption: 9.5 L/100km (24.8 mpg)
Fifth Generation (D5, 2007-present):
• Engines: 2.0L, 2.4L gasoline; 2.2L, 2.3L diesel
• Fuel tank capacity: 66 liters
• Fuel consumption: 7.1 L/100km (33.1 mpg) in mixed driving (2023 model)
The trend shows a general improvement in fuel efficiency over the generations, with the latest D5 model showing significant gains in economy.
Electric Range and Efficiency
As of 2024, Mitsubishi has not produced a fully electric version of the Delica. However, given the automotive industry’s shift towards electrification, it’s possible that future generations of the Delica may include hybrid or all-electric variants.
For comparison, let’s look at some electric vans currently on the market:
• Nissan e-NV200:
– Battery capacity: 40 kWh
– Range: Up to 200 km (124 miles)
– Efficiency: Approximately 5 km/kWh (3.1 miles/kWh)
• Mercedes-Benz eVito:
– Battery capacity: 66 kWh
– Range: Up to 314 km (195 miles)
– Efficiency: Approximately 4.75 km/kWh (2.95 miles/kWh)
If Mitsubishi were to produce an electric Delica in the future, we might expect similar or improved figures, given the rapid advancements in EV technology.
Did You Know?
Here are some interesting facts about the Mitsubishi Delica and its fuel system:
1. The name “Delica” is a contraction of “Delivery Car”.
2. The Delica has been produced continuously since 1968, making it one of Mitsubishi’s longest-running model lines.
3. The fourth-generation Delica (L400) was the first to offer a 4WD system with a center differential, improving its off-road capabilities while maintaining good on-road manners.
4. Some Delica enthusiasts install auxiliary fuel tanks or larger aftermarket tanks to extend their range for long off-road adventures.
5. The Delica is popular among overlanding and van life communities due to its combination of 4WD capability, spacious interior, and relatively good fuel efficiency for its size.
6. In some markets, the Delica was sold under different names, such as the L300 in Europe and the Express in Australia.
7. The latest Delica D5 model features an advanced All-Wheel Control (AWC) system, similar to that used in the Mitsubishi Outlander.
8. Despite never being officially sold in North America, the Delica has gained a cult following there, with many enthusiasts importing older models under the 25-year import rule.
9. The Delica’s fuel efficiency has improved significantly over its generations, with the latest models achieving much better economy than their predecessors.
10. Mitsubishi has used the Delica name on rebadged versions of other manufacturers’ vehicles, including the Mazda Bongo and Nissan NV200, to expand the lineup in certain markets.
Conclusion
The Mitsubishi Delica has evolved significantly since its introduction in 1968, with improvements in fuel capacity, efficiency, and overall performance. While the standard fuel tank capacities have ranged from 48 to 75 liters across different generations, aftermarket options allow for even greater range for those who need it.
Fuel efficiency has also seen notable improvements, with the latest D5 model achieving impressive economy for a vehicle of its size and capability. As the automotive industry continues to evolve, it will be interesting to see how future generations of the Delica adapt to changing technologies and environmental concerns.
Whether you’re an off-road enthusiast, a van life adventurer, or simply a fan of versatile vehicles, the Mitsubishi Delica offers a unique combination of capability, efficiency, and practicality that has earned it a dedicated following around the world.