Mitsubishi L400: van and microbus, engines and trims
Mitsubishi L400 — a large van and microbus, produced from 1994 to 2007. Technically similar to the Space Gear, but in Europe, the L400 was mostly a commercial vehicle. We look at the trims, engines, and what to check.
L400 in brief
The L400 name was used for the fourth generation of the Delica family. Commercial versions (van, microbus) are designed for cargo and passenger transport, while the passenger Space Gear is for the family.
Thanks to the available four-wheel drive, it was popular among farmers, small businesses, and travellers.
Which version to choose
When buying, first decide on the purpose: the Panel Van is for cargo, the Minibus for passengers, and the Space Gear for the family and trips.
Four-wheel drive is handy in winter but complicates maintenance, so choose according to your needs.
Engines and gearboxes
The L400 used 2.4-litre petrol and 2.5 and 2.8-litre turbodiesel engines. Power ranges from around 85 to around 125 hp.
Gearboxes are manual or automatic. Diesels handle high mileage well if maintained.
What to check when buying a used L400
Inspect the bodywork — dents, wheel arches, chassis parts, and body corners. Check if the engine smokes or if there are oil leaks.
Commercial versions are often used intensively, so inspect the suspension, brakes, and cargo area floor. In the four-wheel-drive version, test the transfer case shifting.
Trim levels
L400 variants are named after the body type; specific names and equipment vary by market.
Panel Van
L400Cargo van.
- Enclosed cargo area
- Often — 2–3 seats
- Most affordable option
Minibus
L400Passenger transport.
- Often — 7–9 seats
- Sliding side doors
- Often — extra interior features
Space Gear
L400Family minibus.
- More comfortable interior
- Often — optional four-wheel drive
- Often — extra features
Comparing variants
| Panel Van | Minibus | Space Gear | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Who it suits | For haulers | For passenger transport | For families and road trips |
| Number of seats | 2–3 | 7–9 | 7–8 |
| Cargo area | Large | Smaller | Smaller |
| Engine | 2.5 / 2.8 TD | 2.5 / 2.8 TD | 2.4 / 2.8 TD |
| Price in the used market (relatively) | € | € | €€ |
If you need a vehicle purely for cargo, go for the Panel Van. For transporting people, the Minibus is the way to go. For families, the Space Gear is the best fit.
Pros
- Spacious and robust construction
- Available with four-wheel drive
- Diesels can last a long time if well-maintained
- Wide range of uses
Cons
- Rust can be an issue in older models
- High fuel consumption
- Parts might take time to arrive
Frequently asked questions
How does the L400 differ from the Space Gear?
These are vehicles from the same generation. The L400 is usually the commercial version (van, minibus), while the Space Gear is the passenger variant.
What engines are available in the L400?
Most commonly, a 2.4-litre petrol and a 2.5 or 2.8-litre turbodiesel. You can find the exact power output in the vehicle's documents.
Does the L400 come with four-wheel drive?
Yes, it's offered as an option. Check the specific car version.
Updated 2026-10-14 · Trim levels and equipment vary by market and model year — check the equipment of the specific car. · Translated automatically





























