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Mitsubishi Space Gear: a large minivan, engines and trims
Mitsubishi Space Gear — a large passenger minivan with optional four-wheel drive, produced from 1994 to 2007 in Japan and known as the Delica Space Gear. We look at the engines, trims, and what to check when buying.
Space Gear in brief
The Space Gear is the passenger version of the L400 family, offering up to eight seats and plenty of space. It's popular with families, travellers, and those needing a robust, comfortable vehicle.
Thanks to its optional four-wheel drive and high ground clearance, it's often used for camping, and some versions have been converted into family campervans.
Which version to choose
The engine is key: diesel is more economical and powerful, petrol is quieter. Also, consider the drivetrain (front-wheel or four-wheel drive) and seating configuration.
For most buyers, a diesel with four-wheel drive is ideal, provided the vehicle has been well-maintained.
Engines and gearboxes
Different markets saw the 2.4-litre petrol and 2.5 and 2.8-litre turbodiesel engines, while in Japan, there was also a V6. Power ranges from around 85 to around 125 hp and more.
Gearboxes are manual or automatic. Four-wheel drive is optional.
What to check when buying a used Space Gear
Key inspection points: rust (body panels, wheel arches, chassis parts), condition of the turbodiesel, oil leaks, and operation of the four-wheel drive system.
Test the heating, air conditioning, boot lid, and seat mechanisms. For cars imported from Japan, check the mileage and documents.
Trim levels
Trim names vary by market and year; GLi, Exceed, Chamonix, and Super Exceed are commonly found.
GLi
L400Base trim.
- Often — a simpler interior
- Often — a manual gearbox
- Standard equipment
Exceed
L400A popular mid-range option.
- Often — a more comfortable interior
- Often — air conditioning
- Often — larger alloy wheels
Chamonix
L400The family and touring spec.
- Often — additional comfort features
- Often — a roof rack
- Often — improved interior
Super Exceed
L400Top-of-the-range trim
- Often — more generous equipment
- Often — improved cabin trim
- Often — additional comfort systems
Trim comparison
| GLi | Exceed | Chamonix | Super Exceed | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Who it suits | For everyday use | Most buyers | For road trippers | For maximum comfort |
| Alloy wheels (most often) | 15 col. | 15 col. | 15 col. | 15–16 col. |
| Interior | Base | Comfort | Comfort | Luxury |
| Engine | 2.4 petrol | 2.5 / 2.8 TD | 2.8 TD | 2.8 TD |
| Price in the used market (relatively) | Budget | Mid-range | Mid-range | Premium |
Most buyers will be happy with the Exceed or Chamonix with a diesel engine and four-wheel drive.
Pros
- Very spacious interior
- Optional four-wheel drive
- Suitable for families and road trips
- Robust construction
Cons
- Rust in older cars
- High fuel consumption
- Parts might need to be sourced
Frequently asked questions
Is the Space Gear the same as the Delica Space Gear?
Yes. The Delica Space Gear is the Japanese name, while Space Gear was used in Europe and other markets.
How many seats does the Space Gear have?
Most models have 7–8 seats, though some have fewer.
Does the Space Gear come with four-wheel drive?
Yes, it’s offered as an option. Check the specific model version.
Updated 2026-10-14 · Trim levels and equipment vary by market and model year — check the equipment of the specific car. · Translated automatically
