Mitsubishi Momentum 2030 Rumors: Is the Delica Finally Coming to the States?

Mitsubishi is among the world leaders in producing cars, motorcycles, musical instruments and other hobby objects. The Delica is one of their most popular vehicles because it’s great for road trips and outdoor adventures. However, it’s unavailable in the United States. Could the Momentum 2030 initiative finally bring the big machine to America? Here’s your guide to the future of Mitsubishi North America.  

What Is the Mitsubishi Delica? 

Mitsubishi began Delica production in the late 1960s, following the rise in minibus popularity. These vehicles became prominent because of their versatility for road trips, protests and other cultural movements. While nearly 60 years old, the Delica has received numerous facelifts and upgrades through the years. The machine remains popular with outdoor enthusiasts because it’s durable and great for camping — just not in the United States. 

The Japanese manufacturer once produced the Delica in the United States under the Wagon name. Mitsubishi sent Wagons off production lines between 1987 and 1990 before ceasing sales. Why did the automaker build this minibus in America? Mitsubishi tried to take advantage of Chrysler’s minivan success by sending the Delica under a new name. Unfortunately, it didn’t last long due to poor handling and a lack of crash protection. 

What Is Mitsubishi Momentum 2030?

If you long for the Delica’s return, you may be in luck. Auto industry experts say an American rendezvous could be in store for this classic machine. Why are they enthusiastic? Look no further than Mitsubishi Momentum 2030. This renaissance aims to elevate the company as a top automotive manufacturer by introducing more vehicles by the decade’s end. Mitsubishi only has four machines in its lineup, but the Delica could rejoin it. 

What else does Mitsubishi Momentum 2030 entail? Mitsubishi wants to establish itself as a leader in sustainable machinery, so expect to see all-electric and hybrid options on dealership lots. These vehicles release zero harmful emissions into the atmosphere, so it makes sense for the automaker to focus on efficient cars. Electric vehicles (EVs) are terrific for the outdoors because they care for the environment more than gas-powered cars. 

Will Momentum 2030 Bring the Delica to the States?

Momentum 2030 should feature new cars and revive older models, so a Delica reboot could be in the cards. An Automotive News report says Mitsubishi wants to bring a passenger van to its American lineup. What will the vehicle look like? While it won’t resemble the 1960s versions, this potentially revamped Mitsubishi Delica appears futuristic. The auto industry got its first look at this van when the company unveiled the D:X concept last fall. 

In October 2023, Mitsubishi Motors showed the world its electric crossover with all-wheel control. The automaker didn’t directly name the Delica, but the next model certainly takes inspiration from the older minibus. This multipurpose vehicle (MPV) makes up for the qualities the previous Mitsubishi Delica models lacked. For instance, Mitsubishi prioritizes safety with the D:X by enhancing the body and making it more conducive to off-roading. You also get excellent fenders for improved strength.

What Mitsubishi Cars Can You Drive in the Meantime? 

Mitsubishi Momentum 2030 includes plans for the next six years, so it could be a while before all the automobiles come to fruition. What machines can you drive in the meantime? Here are all three vehicles in the current lineup. 

Eclipse

When you think of the Eclipse, you probably start thinking about family. This car belongs to Brian O’Conner in the Fast and the Furious movies and is integral to the movie’s lore. O’Conner used it in his first street race, setting up the rest of the franchise for epic competition. Celebrate Paul Walker by driving an Eclipse if you want to commemorate his character. While it was out of the lineup for a while, the Eclipse has returned. 

The 2024 Eclipse is now a crossover, as Mitsubishi focuses on the family-friendly side of the vehicle market. Despite having SUV characteristics, the Eclipse packs a punch with its turbocharged engine in the standard package. If you like rally cars, the Eclipse with the RALLIART trim could be up your alley. This edition has an excellent paint scheme with a white diamond finish around the vehicle. The car lets you indulge in luxurious accessories. 

Mirage G4

Unfortunately, 2024 is the last year we’ll see the Mirage. Mitsubishi announced last summer it would discontinue the model due to poor sales. The car’s sales dropped 57% compared to 2022, so the automaker will move on to other priorities. In the meantime, we’ll appreciate the car because it’s a terrific machine. Sedans still have a place in the 2020 automotive market, and the Mirage fills the niche better than other cars on dealership lots. 

Why does the Mirage stand out? Mitsubishi’s last sedan excels in fuel mileage, boasting 39 miles per gallon (mpg) for superb efficiency. Super fuel economy typically requires hybrid technology, but the Mirage nearly reaches 40 mpg without battery technology. Like other sedans, the Mirage has a low profile to aid its fuel economy. If you want enhanced efficiency, you don’t have to look further than the last Mitsubishi Mirage. 

Outlander

We’d be remiss if we didn’t mention Mitsubishi’s most popular vehicle. The Outlander is the automaker’s flagship machine, selling over 22,000 cars in the third quarter of 2023. You may wonder why Mitsubishi has two SUVs in its lineup, considering it only has three vehicles. A few differences between the Outlander and the Eclipse Cross are worth mentioning. One may be better for families than the other. 

The most significant distinction between the vehicles is the engine displacement. The Outlander has a bigger engine than the Eclipse Cross, thus giving you more horsepower on the open road. Size is another difference, considering the Outlander gives you a little more legroom in the front and back seats. The Eclipse Cross has the upper hand for safety, with a five-star safety rating from the National Highway Traffic Administration (NHTSA) compared to four for the Outlander. 

Anticipating Momentum 2030 and Next Mitsubishi Delica

The most prominent automakers in the U.S. include Toyota, Ford and General Motors (GM). Mitsubishi wants to use Momentum 2030 to join the elite group of auto manufacturers. How will they do it? The Japanese manufacturer has teased its fans with the D:X prototype built for road trips and off-roading. If everything goes to plan, Mitsubishi will debut new vehicles and overhaul old models for the American market.