Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV (GN0W) - 2025 facelift

Launched at the end of 2021, the Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV (GN0W) was a game-changer that promises to turn Mitsubishi's fortunes around with its PHEV drivetrain. Sadly, only a few are taking notice of it. Now is the ideal time to reintroduce the Outlander PHEV to the world in a revamped approach.

2025 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV

Now starting at 5,263,500 Japanese Yen plus additional costs, a huge price hike compared to the previous model, the updated Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV GN0W promises to be an even more game-changer than before with its recalibrated PHEV drivetrain along with some retouches in store for this minor change.

2025 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV

2025 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV interior

The 2025 model features some slight retouches, such as the front grille to accommodate its front shutters, revamped wheel designs, the new 12.3-inch touchscreen sat-nav system with smartphone connectivity, and the available Yamaha 12-speaker sound system, which replaces the Bose unit from the pre-facelifted model. It's still offered with the choice of a five-seater or a seven-seater and can carry up to 1404 liters of boot space with the passenger seats folded down. Ideal for various walks of life from business to leisure.

2025 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV

Now's the ideal time to talk about its recalibrated PHEV powertrain. While the 4B12 2.4L petrol engine remains unchanged, the electrical bit is now powered by the 22.7 kWh lithium battery with a new liquid cooling system and a heat pump system, making greater efficiency to its twin motors that supplement its Super All-Wheel Control system. Overall, it now produces over 300PS of power, and mated with a single-gear automatic, it sprints from 0-100kph in less than eight seconds and flat-out in 170kph.

Its fuel efficiency is now 17.6 km/L, and its EV driving range is now 106km based on WLTC Mode standards.

Mitsubishi also recalibrated the Outlander PHEV's dynamics using lightweight and high-rigidity aluminum on its suspension setup to make it slightly more enjoyable to drive everywhere as well as its revamped steering layout and larger ventilated disc brakes.

The new Outlander PHEV prioritizes safety with its MI-PILOT single-lane driver assistance technology. This system combines Adaptive Cruise Control and Lane Keep Assist to help keep the vehicle centered while navigating Tokyo's highways. Additionally, it features the capability to read speed limit signs, which may surprise other drivers on the road.

Now that we’ve had a chance to get acquainted with the new features of the refreshed Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV, let's discuss whether or not this refresh has successfully made it the ideal time to take notice of this improved model.

Photo: Mitsubishi Motors Corporation

My FH5 Log: Mr. Mitsu

The Mitsubishi FTO has made its comeback in Forza Horizon 5 as a prize car in the Back to the 90s Storm Season Playlist. This news is sure to thrill a certain slasher from Hakone.

Having obtained the FTO, let's have a word with the only front-wheel-drive sports coupe Mitsubishi made.

The Mitsubishi FTO was launched in October 1994 as an entry-level front-wheel-drive sports coupe. It was intended to compete with the Toyota Celica and the Honda Integra. The FTO comes with a choice of engines, including a 2.0L 6A12 MIVEC V6 engine that produces 200 PS of power and 20.4 kgf-m of torque. It is mated with either a 5-speed manual or INVECS-II Sports Mode automatic transmission (in four or five-speed configurations) that allows the driver to manually shift gears with ease. At launch, it won the Japan Car of the Year. Production ended in 2000.

I'm going to take the FTO for a quick drive around a certain EventLab creation that feels like Fuji to me. I'm not sure if it's an exact replica, but it's close enough. Anyway, let's roll the tape and see how it handles.

The good old days are still here, at least for fans of the Mitsubishi FTO. This classic Japanese sports coupe has been revisited in Forza Horizon 5.

Enjoy your new ride!

My FH5 Log: Legends of the Hidden Junk Cars

Three undesirable old cars have plagued Forza Horizon 5's Hidden Horizons update like disease-carrying rodents.

Let's face it, there's no stopping a game like Forza Horizon 5 from featuring undesirable old cars no one asked for and the Hidden Horizons update is no exception. Time to meet this update's worst offenders.

First, the Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution III from the Hidden Horizons Summer Season Playlist. Launched in 1995, the Lancer Evolution III is the third and the last verse based on the fourth-generation Lancer. It features a revised body style compared to the Evo II while the turbocharged 2.0L 4G63 engine was bumped to 266HP of power output.

Next, the fourth-generation Toyota Chaser, in turbocharged 2.5GT twin-turbo guise, from the Hidden Horizons Winter Season Playlist. Powered by a 2.5L 1JZ-GTE engine, it produces 210PS of power, making it the most powerful of the X80-series Chasers.

Lastly, the facelifted Volvo C30, in T5 R-Design Polestar Limited Edition guise, from the Hidden Horizons Spring Season Playlist. A byproduct of the SCC Concept, the C30 is the last 3-door Volvo ever made.

Let's give the latest batch of junk cars a quick race to prove their worth. Roll the tapes.

These junk cars still know how to funk themselves.

The plague of junk cars in Forza Horizon 5 is far from over because the next update, the Back To The 90s update, sees another plague of junk cars from the 1990s. Brace yourselves, more junk cars are coming.

Speaking of which...

Do you remember the King?

My FM Log: Forever Knighthood

The Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution III is the peak of the first saga of the Lancer Evolution. It arrived in Forza Motorsport, and there's so much to talk about this JDM gem in so little time.

Here's the TMI on the LanEvo III.

Launched in 1995, the Lancer Evolution III is the third and the last verse based on the fourth-generation Lancer. It features a revised body style compared to the Evo II while the turbocharged 2.0L 4G63 engine was bumped to 266HP of power output.

Inside the world of Initial D, the Evo III was driven by the Emperor boss, Kyoichi Sudo. Takumi Fujiwara dueled against Sudo in an unofficial match in Akagi and lost because of the AE86's blown engine, but Sudo let him slide for now. Following the AE86's blown engine, Sudo battled Ryosuke Takahashi of Redsuns and lost. Later on, on his home turf Irohazaka, the rematch between Takumi and Sudo ended in a dead heat.

I respected this Evo ever since it popped up in Initial D. From its rally knowhow, the clever 4WD system, and legendary performance, it's no wonder it became one of the most formidable rally weapons in the 90s and now, to prove its worth, let's take the Evo III a hot lap around Suzuka Circuit, just to experience what's like to be inside the car driven by the Emperor boss. "It's a seminar" like what Sudo said. Roll the tape.

Mr. Emperor can do better than mine but hey, it's the experience that counts, right?

The Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution III is the peak of the first saga of the Lancer Evolution. It's no wonder it became one of the most formidable rally weapons in the 90s. In the world of Initial D, you have to be brave and bold enough to take him down.

It's an honor to drive this iconic Mitsubishi rally car in the game.

Mitsubishi Triton (LC2T)

The Mitsubishi Triton returns home in its third-generation model and it's shaped up to become the best Triton ever made.

2024 Mitsubishi Triton

Starting at 4,980,800 Yen plus additional costs, which makes it nearly a million more expensive than its main rival, the Toyota Hilux, the all-new, third-generation Mitsubishi Triton, fully imported from Thailand, is the comeback Mitsubishi Motors desperately wanted since the discontinuation of its coolest vehicles ever made, the Pajero and the Lancer Evolution.

2024 Mitsubishi Triton

Beginning with the styling, the all-new Triton draws inspiration from the XRT Concept, incorporating its Beast Mode design tough enough to tackle Hokkaido's worst if you're into that. From the rough roads of Hokkaido to the bustling streets of downtown Tokyo, rest assured that this muscular styling is as salty as the salty spitoon, not a super weenie.

2024 Mitsubishi Triton interior

Inside, the all-new Triton is one of the most spacious in its class because the truck is one of the largest in its class. 

Most importantly, most of the interior's contact points are heavily emphasized on grip comfort and sturdiness, making it more dramatic to flicker about. The dashboard is packed with a fully automatic air conditioner with left and right independent temperature control and an available touch screen sat-nav lifted from the Outlander PHEV, more comfortable front seats, and other improvements to make the new Triton's interior more utilitarian and luxurious than the first one.

Asked about the seat material, the entry-level GLS uses fabric while the range-topper GSR uses leather with orange stitching.

The cargo bed is now wider and longer compared to the old model and it has a 2×4 lumbar attachment, 4-piece cargo bed hooks, a wide rear bumper cover, and a bed liner for the GSR model, making it suitable for business and leisure at a steady rate.

2024 Mitsubishi Triton

Built on a newly developed ladder frame with significantly increased rigidity compared to the conventional model, as well as front double wishbones, improved rear leaf springs, extensive use of high-tensile steel, and Super Select 4WD-II and Easy Select 4WD systems, the all-new Triton is fully prepared to tackle through the world's most punishing roads, all in the name of playing dirty with its improved off-road capabilities.

Powering the all-new Triton is a brand new 4N16 2.4L clean diesel engine that produces 204PS of power and 470Nm of torque, making it more powerful than the Toyota Hilux. Mated to a 6-speed automatic gearbox, the fuel economy is 11.3kmpl based on WLTC Mode standards, slightly less economical than the Hilux, just so you know.

The third-generation Triton features numerous safety features such as including Forward Collision Mitigation, Blind Spot Warning with Lane Change Assist, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, Adaptive Cruise Control, Active Stability Control, traction control, Hill Descent Control, and Hill Start Assist.

After 12 years of void, the Triton is finally back home with a vengeance and this comeback is what Mitsubishi Motors truly needed. With its bravado looks, gripping interior, new diesel engine, improved offroad capabilities, and host of safety features, there's no doubt that this will be the best Triton ever made by a long shot.

If you want a Japanese pickup truck, it's either the Toyota Hilux or the Mitsubishi Triton. That's it.

PRICE LIST:

GLS - 4,980,800 Yen

GSR - 5,401,000 Yen

AVAILABLE COLORS:

White Diamond, Graphite Grey Metallic, Jet Black Mica, Blade Silver Metallic (GLS only), Red Solid (GLS only), and Yamabuki Orange Metallic (GSR only).

Photo: Mitsubishi Motors Corporation

My GT7 Log: Emperors

The Evo III and the Evo IV are the infamous 4WD sports saloons that made an appearance in the Initial D series because these cars were driven by Kyoichi Sudo and Seiji Iwaki, the formidable duo from the team Emperor. Here in Gran Turismo 7, I got the chance to drive the fearsome twosome.

Whenever these two Evos popped up on the mountain roads, street racers are going to think twice before facing them head-on because, as witnessed in the series, the loser gets their team stickers sliced in half. So, what made these Evos feared on the mountain roads?

Let's begin with the Lancer Evolution III, the one Kyoichi Sudo drove in Initial D. The Evo III is the third and the last verse of the one based on the fourth-generation Lancer, commonly nicknamed by Noypis as the "Lancer Hotdog" because of the hotdog-shaped rear-lamps. Launched in 1995, the Evo III features a revised body style compared to the Evo II while the turbocharged 2.0L 4G63 engine was bumped to 266HP of power output.

As the Evo driven by the Emperor boss in Initial D, Takumi dueled against Sudo in an unofficial match and lost because of the AE86's blown engine but Sudo let it slide for now. Following the AE86's blown engine, Sudo battled Ryosuke Takahashi of Redsuns and lost. Later on, on his home turf Irohazaka, the rematch between Takumi and Sudo ended in a dead heat.

Now, let's take a look at the Evo driven by the Emperor's head honcho Seiji Iwaki, the Lancer Evolution IV. Being the first Evo that was based on the fifth-generation Lancer, known by the commercials as the "Good Run Lancer", the Evo IV is an entirely new model built from the ground up. The same engine that powers the Evo has been flipped around 180 degrees and saw a power increase to 276HP of power. The Evo IV marked the debut of the Active Yaw Control, which replaced the previous models' mechanical LSD. In the world of Initial D, Takumi battled Seiji and barely won.

Having gotten to know about the Evos driven by the Emperor duo, let's give this fearsome twosome a duel to determine which one is the best, and with that, I selected Autopolis for this matter.

So, which of these Emperor LanEvos is the most potent one? The leader or the head honcho? Let's roll the tape.

And now the results...

Evo III - 2m20.256s

Evo IV - 2m19.587s

It's a shockingly close result. The head honcho has beaten the leader by nearly a second. I guess this is how much of an improvement the Evo IV is compared to the Evo III. Still, they're pretty good for retro rally JDM saloons known and feared the world over.

As said before, both the Evo III and the Evo IV are fearsome twosome street racers who are going to think twice before facing them head-on as seen in Initial D. These machines showcased how much progress the Lancer Evolution has gone through since the beginning of the tale. They really are the best machines to come out from the 1990s, the golden era of JDM sports cars.

Remember the emperors...

2nd Gen Mitsubishi eK Space (2024 facelift) and Delica Mini

The second-generation Mitsubishi eK Space has received a facelift to keep itself fresh and apart from that, its rugged sibling, the Delica Mini, joins the party, giving customers various ways and means to enjoy the traffic-friendly kei minivans Mitsubishi offered.

2024 Mitsubishi Delica Mini

2024 Mitsubishi eK Space

For the 2024 model year, the second-generation Mitsubishi eK Space is now updated with a heavily revised front view that is proven to be more stylish than its pre-facelifted model. The first-ever Delica Mini, meanwhile, is the rugged version of the eK Space that serves as the replacement for the now-axed eK X Space. With its rugged styling and the DELICA lettering etched on the front and back, the Delica Mini showcases its outdoorsy vibe fit for a quiet Sunday drive into the woods.

2024 Mitsubishi Delica Mini interior

2024 Mitsubishi eK Space interior

The interior looks pretty much the same as the pre-facelift model but it's got a new sat-nav offered as an available extra and that's pretty much about it. For more expensive models, you can expect some noticeable stuff you may find, well, noticeable, such as the back table at the back of the front seats, keyless entry, touch panel aircon, and others, not to mention the waterproof sheet fabric which is ideal when you accidentally spilled something. The Delica Mini inherits most of the interior features from the eK Space so you can expect the same stuff from it.

Either way, they are tall enough to let occupants stretch themselves on the inside and offer generous rear legroom and ample spacing fit for all kinds of stuff to do. Honest work.

2024 Mitsubishi Delica Mini

2024 Mitsubishi eK Space

Both the facelifted eK Space and the Delica Mini are equipped with the same BR06 three-cylinder DOHC 12V ECI engine bolted with a tiny electric motor and a CVT gearbox. Thanks to some slight improvements, the fuel economy is around 20.9kmpl based on WLTC Mode standards. The Delica Mini is offered exclusively with the turbocharged variant of the same engine producing 64PS of power output and 19.2kmpl of fuel economy.

In kei car tradition, both the eK Space and the Delica Mini are no sweat to drive thanks to their compact sizing, less complicated suspension setup, and available 4WD, not to mention a wide range of safety tech from e-Assist to MI-PILOT, making them true city class cars for everyday use.

The facelifted eK Space and the first-ever Delica Mini are now ready to take on the new normal for simple people looking to find new hobbies out of these kei minivans. Like it or not, these traffic-friendly kei minivans are ready to get the job done, no rush at all.

Photo: Mitsubishi Motors Corporation

My FH5 Log: Super Tito

The sixth-generation Mitsubishi Galant, in rally-bred VR-4 form, returns in Forza Horizon 5 via the Japanese Automotive Dry Season Playlist and now that I have it, it's time to get a hold of what's known to be my uncle's car from back in a day. Ah, memories...

The sixth-generation Galant was launched in Japan in October 1987 with variants such as the 2.0L-powered MX, VX, VZ, 1.8L-powered MS, VS, 1.8L-powered MF, GF, 1.6L-powered ME, GE, and G. Two months later, 4WD versions such as the 2.0 DOHC TURBO VR-4 and 2.0 DOHC VX-4 were launched and it has won the Japan Car of the Year in 1987.

This VR-4 version comes with the 4G63T DOHC 16v inline 4-cylinder engine that has a peak power of 177 kW (241 PS; 237 hp) at 6000 rpm and peak torque of 304 N·m (224 lb·ft) at 3500 rpm. It is mated with either a 4-speed AT or a 5-speed MT.

This was homologated for the Group A class, using the underpinnings from the Starion 4WD. From 1988 to 1992, it was campaigned by Ralliart Europe and it won three events courtesy of Mikael Ericsson (1989 1000 Lakes Rally), Pentti Airikkala (1989 Lombard RAC Rally), and Kenneth Eriksson (1991 Swedish Rally). Kenjiro Shinozuka pushed this Galant to victory at the Asia-Pacific Rally Championships in 1988 and from 1991 to 1992, Ross Dunkerton did the same thing. Tim O'Neil also pushed the Galant to victory at the 1992 American National GT Championship.

The LanEvo of the Showa era before the rise of the Lancer Evo, as they said. Anyway, let's give the Galant VR-4 a quick drive through the dirt, experiencing its rally-bred performance known the world over. Oh, and I'd better make my uncle proud while driving what used to be it. Get it? Anyway, let's roll the tape.

I did it for you, Uncle!

Enjoy your new ride!

Mitsubishi eK X EV

Over a decade ago, Mitsubishi Motors jumped to the electric car revival with the i-MiEV. Fast forward to the year 2022, Mitsubishi Motors is back in the electric car business with the first-ever eK X EV.

2023 Mitsubishi eK X EV

What is the Mitsubishi eK X EV? Priced at 2.398M Japanese Yen plus additional costs, the first-ever eK X EV is more of an electrified version of the Mitsubishi eK X (pronounced cross) Kei car currently on sale, but don't let its familiar looks fool you because the eK X EV is a totally different breed compared to its ICE-powered equivalent.

2023 Mitsubishi eK X EV interior

The first tip goes to its interior because the electrified eK X's dashboard is surprisingly different from its ICE-powered equivalent. The sat-nav, for instance, looks like it was sourced from Nissan while the shift knob and the climate control feature a completely new design compared to the normal eK X. Despite the altered dashboard, the eK X EV can still accommodate up to four people and despite being slightly shorter compared to the normal eK X, it's still roomy as well.

2023 Mitsubishi eK X EV

As a kei electric car that fits well on Japan's narrow roads, the eK X EV is powered by an MM48 electric motor and a 20 kWh li-ion battery pack that powers its front wheels, generating 47kW of power output, 195Nm of torque output, and has a driving range of 180km in one full charge based on WLTC Mode standards. Although not fit for long weekend trips from your home to granny's old home, the eK X EV's electric powertrain has some purpose for city car use.

Weighing over a ton, the eK X EV is still a usable compact car fit for city use courtesy of its Rack & Pinion power steering, front strut suspension, rear torque arm 3-link suspension, front ventilated disc brakes, and rear Reading Trailing Drum brakes. Although not an exciting car to drive, it feels very easy to live with.

With safety as its top priority, the eK X EV features MI-PILOT semi-autonomous tech as well as an e-assist suite of safety features for the safest driving experience fit for a kei electric car.

The first-ever eK X EV wants to become the true successor of the now-legendary Mitsubishi i-MIEV, the kei electric car that spearheaded the electric car revival alongside the Nissan Leaf. The main question is, does this kei electric car got what it takes to follow the footsteps of the i-MiEV? Only time will tell but because the eK X EV is fit for Japan's new normal, looks like it's ready, like it or not.

Available colors: Mist Blue Pearl, Olive Green Metallic, Natural Ivory Metallic, Red Metallic, Black Mica, Mist Blue Pearl/Copper Metallic, White Pearl/Black Mica, Red Metallic/Black Mica, Natural Ivory Metallic/Copper Metallic, and Oak Brown Metallic/Natural Ivory Metallic.

Photo: Mitsubishi Motors Corporation

Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV (GN0W)

Mitsubishi Motors used to be the rising star of the automotive industry because of its blockbuster hits such as the Pajero and the Lancer Evolution. Now, it became a struggling Japanese carmaker that couldn't keep up with the challenges of the new normal despite the fact that it's part of the alliance with Renault and Nissan. As the Japanese carmaker is on the brink of becoming the one that time forgot, they've recently launched the all-new Outlander PHEV crossover, a game-changer that promises to turn Mitsubishi's fortunes around as it seeks through the brave new challenges it will come across.

2022 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV

Starting at 4,621,100 Japanese Yen plus additional costs, the all-new Outlander PHEV promises to wake the company up from its deep slumber with its game-changing PHEV powertrain, strong design, a fully functional interior, and dynamics honed from Mitsubishi's greatest hits. Although it's hard to question this latest regeneration, there is so much to talk about it but for now, let's be quick about the new model.

2022 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV

Beginning with the design, the new Outlander borrows its styling cues from the Engleberg Tourer Concept, giving this new model a rather dramatic flair fit for a crossover that promises to tackle the new normal at ease while delivering a strong atmosphere lurking through its exterior design. Dramatic and strong the new exterior design is, the new Outlander is surprisingly bigger than its predecessor, posing a challenge to those who owned the previous Outlander PHEV.

2022 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV interior

Thanks to its added size, the new interior is roomier and more functional than before. Step into the driver's seat and thankfully, Mitsubishi went for the user-friendly route for the new model because common sense is what the new model's built for. 

Speaking of common sense, because of its larger dimensions, the new Outlander is slightly roomier than its predecessor, giving everyone plenty of reasons to get accommodated with it. The five-seater variant is fine but the seven-seater variant is also fine as well as long as you don't want Mom and Dad telling you to sit in the third-row seats while the rest of the second-row seats are fully occupied with child seats. There goes its sweet spot. Because the second and third-row seats are foldable, you can turn it into an express van if you're trying to deliver heavy cargo or a nice little sleeper while in the woods.

2022 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV

The Outlander PHEV's powertrain remains the same 4B12 2.4L petrol engine from its previous model but the two electric motors connected to it are now more powerful than before. Combined with the Li-ion battery and the CVT gearbox, the new model delivers 16.6km/L of fuel economy as well as 87km of EV range based on WLTC Mode standards.

In terms of dynamics, the new Outlander PHEV drives better than before because of its CMF platform derived from the alliance, allowing this crossover to behave with a European feel. Coupled with the rear multilink suspension, front MacPherson struts, and a Rack and Pinion Electric Power Steering, it feels as civilized as a good honest senior citizen who cares about everybody more than himself.

Being a 4WD crossover, the Outlander PHEV offers various driving modes that can be selected at the turn of the dial. You can even engage Gravel, Snow, and Mud modes as well if you are in the mood for offroading or a weekend at Hannibal's. Although it doesn't mimic the capabilities of the late Pajero, it's still good to drive even on the dirtiest roads. After all, it's all about quality time with you and the road ahead.

As for safety, the new Outlander PHEV comes with an improved MI-PILOT single-lane driver assistance tech which integrates Adaptive Cruise Control and Lane Keep Assist to keep it centered while driving through Tokyo highways like a commoner. It even reads speed limit signs as well, which is a bit of a shock for those behind the wheel.

The Outlander PHEV may not be the most exciting vehicle to drive this year but in the interest of common sense, it's all about getting the job done from start to finish. So, is this the crossover that promises to turn around Mitsubishi's fortunes? Although it's too late to say it, there's still a chance for Mitsubishi to redeem itself with this new model. Who knows, with such a reputation the new model possesses before its launch, this could be the Japanese equivalent of the Hail Mary this company is looking for.

Photo: Mitsubishi Motors Corporation

Suzuki Solio/Mitsubishi Delica D:2 (MA37S/27S)

The Suzuki Solio or Mitsubishi Delica D:2 in case you went to your nearest Mitsubishi dealer, has been regenerated to its newest generation and whether you like it or not, the new model promises to deliver the same convenience delivered from its predecessors. Small on size, big on space, fuel-efficient, it's the compact minivan that fits through Japan's driving conditions in the midst of the new normal.

Starting at 1,515,800 Japanese Yen (or 1,883,200 Yen if you're in a Mitsubishi dealer for a reason), the new model still offers a choice of two different styles such as the normal and the more stylish Bandit/Custom. Whichever style you go for, you are still welcomed by its modest space and fuel efficiency that is worth questioning.

Looking through the exterior design, the normal Solio/Delica D:2 looks more like a first-gen Spacia Custom when you squint your eyes hard while taking a closer look while the Solio Bandit/Delica D:2 Custom looks more like a Peugeot SUV with some Genesis-esque headlamps on it. Either way, they're still as boxy as their predecessors and they're similarly sized as well, although it's now 20mmm wider than the old one. Good.

Because the new models are now wider than the previous model, you can expect some more room on the interior for up to four people to get themselves accommodated. While the new dashboard is a bit above average for the owners, its added width makes it slightly roomier for either single-child families, joyriders, or even deliverymen using it to deliver the goods to customers. This small minivan works with all walks of life, well, almost.

The new Solio/Delica D:2 still runs on Suzuki's Mild Hybrid technology that works in tandem with SUZUKI GREEN TECHNOLOGY. It's the same K12C Dual Jet engine producing 91PS of power and 118Nm of torque, while coupled with an Integrated Starter Generator, Lithium-ion Battery, an updated idling stop system, and CVT like the previous model. Fuel economy? An honest 19.6kmpl based on WLTC mode standards. Don't worry, they're not exaggerating like last time because this was proven in the real world, I believe. Sadly, no full hybrid on the lineup but why bother?

Both the Solio and the Delica D:2 are offered with mild-hybrid tech but if you're itching for the one with the normal K12C engine without the mild hybrid bits, you'd be better of with the Solio. Either way, in terms of dynamics, thanks to whatever the heck they've done, the new models now weigh over a ton so you might expect that the handling's suffered from the added weight but it didn't bother anyway.

Of course, you can still expect front MacPherson struts and an old-fashioned rear torsion beam as usual so expect the handling to be pretty average for a compact minivan like this but because it now runs on Suzuki's HEARTECT platform, the new Solio/Delica D:2 feels more of an improvement compared to the previous model.

The new Solio/Delica D:2 features a new version of SUZUKI SAFETY SUPPORT, which is a suite of safety features such as Lane Departure Warning function, wandering alarm function, high beam assist, sign recognition function, advance car departure notice function, dual sensor brake support, false start suppression, brake support, backward error start suppression, and more. It's the safest Solio/Delica D:2 offered for those who are willing to get back from another tough day at the office.

And there you have it. The new Solio/Delica D:2 is starting to feel like it's been improved despite the lack of a proper hybrid variant. With the added width, honest fuel efficiency, the added safety, and improved dynamics thanks to its HEARTECT platform, this tiny minivan's evolved.

Photo: Suzuki Motor Corporation/Mitsubishi Motors Corporation