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

Project CARS 3: What's your first page be like?

Congratulations to those who got their hands on Project CARS 3, the newest installment of the Project CARS series, which is made by the folks of Slightly Mad Studios (a Codemasters company) and Bandai Namco. As everybody knows, every good story begins with a choosing and for those who are starting Project CARS 3 for the first time get to choose one of three starter cars to begin with; a Toyota 86, a Lancer Evo VI, and a Civic Type R. Question is, which starter car is the best to start with?

To find out, let's examine the three Project CARS 3 starters.

First off, the Honda Civic Type R FK2. Made in Britain, the FK2 is based on the Euro-spec ninth-generation Civic and it's powered by a K20C 2.0L VTEC Turbo engine, which produces 310PS of power output and 400Nm of torque, while mated exclusively with a 6-speed manual gearbox. Incorporating its motorsports knowhow, the Civic Type R comes with race-inspired suspension system, Active Damper System, Dual Pinion Assist EPS, and the most advanced aerodynamics developed for this car. When it was launched in 2015, it lapped the Nurburgring in 7:51.42, which is the fastest lap time for front-wheel drive cars. It marked the return of the Civic name in Japan after a five year absence with only 750 units imported to Japan.

Next up is the Toyota 86. While this is the least powerful of the three starter cars, its rear-wheel drive layout makes its the most enjoyable to drive with and because it's the cheapest of the three, you can spend its change tweaking its car. It's powered by a 2.0L flat-4 engine producing over 200PS of power and thanks to its low center of gravity and the fact that it uses skinny tires rather than bigger, grippy, ones, it makes the 86 more lively to drive in the corners.

Lastly, the Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution VI Tommi Makinen Edition, made in honor of the four-time WRC champion, the TME is a special Lancer Evolution VI model that is limited to 2500 units worldwide. Although the special livery wasn't made for show-offs, this model featured mechanical improvements identical to the base car. It comes with three variants ranging from the stripped-off RS model to the heavily-equipped GSR model.

These three starter cars will have their say with a quick lap round the streets of Shanghai to see which starter car is the best. I know this sounds rubbish but in the interest of car science, I stuck with it. So without further ado, let the experiment begin.

The Toyota 86 is much lively to drive in the bends because of its FR layout while the Civic Type R is all about serious grip and the Lancer Evo VI really shows its all-round capability as an all-wheel drive car. With their fun at Shanghai done, here are the results:

GT86 - 1:56.250

Lancer Evo VI - 1:50.185

Civic Type R - 1:50.915

As it turns out, the Lancer Evolution VI is the fastest of the three and I have no idea why I made the right decision choosing this as my starter car, although most disagree that the 86 is the best because like I said, because it's the cheapest of the three, you can spend its change tweaking its car. The Civic Type R is fairly nice but drivers may have hard time tinkering it.

Needless to say, whichever car you choose, your day at Project CARS 3 is officially begin and in its career mode, your goal is to win races while achieving several objectives to unlock new races. If you find it troubling, tune up or buy a new car. Simple.

Anyway, welcome to the world of Project CARS 3, drivers.

2nd Gen Mitsubishi eK Space/3rd Gen Nissan Roox

The kei minivans made under the NMKV joint venture, the Mitsubishi eK Space and the Nissan Roox, have been regenerated for their newest generation, and for this latest generation, these new models are ready to set right all the things that went wrong with their previous generations by delivering honest-to-goodness space, better efficiency, safety, and looks, in the midst of this new normal.

2021 Mitsubishi eK Space

2021 Mitsubishi eK X Space

2021 Nissan Roox

Like the recent smaller equivalents, both the new eK Space and the new Roox are still made by Mitsubishi as part of the NMKV joint venture and even though they look different, they're still the same kei minivans you now see fit.

2021 Mitsubishi eK Space

2021 Mitsubishi eK X Space

2021 Nissan Roox

Keeping in tradition, both the eK Space and Roox featured different styles to choose from. On the Mitsubishi side, there's the normal eK Space for those who are looking for something simple and then there's the eK X (Cross) Space for those who want something outdoorsy. On the Nissan side, the Roox is offered in base and the more stylish Highway Star variant. Either way, they're still good to go for people on the go.

2021 Mitsubishi eK Space interior

2021 Mitsubishi eK Space interior

2021 Nissan Roox interior

Like the previous models, both models are tall enough to let occupants stretch themselves on the inside and that is a good thing because these models offer generous rear legroom and ample spacing fit for all kinds of stuff to do. Whether you can use it for family outings or for small business purposes, even TNVS things, both the new eK Space and the new Roox can do just that decently. And thanks to the fact that it comes with a hands-free sliding door, it's more user-friendly as well.

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, paddle shifters for turbocharged variants, keyless entry, touch panel aircon, and others.

2021 Mitsubishi eK X Space

2021 Nissan Roox

On the performance side, they're still fit enough for city use and because they're small, they can squeeze through places big minivans can't get through. That's because underneath, these kei minivans feature Rack & Pinion steering, front MacPherson struts, rear torsion beams, front ventilated disc brakes, rear reading trailing brakes, and other chassis refinements. With that, they're still decent to drive out from the home and into the city centers.

These models come with a 660cc BR06 three-cylinder DOHC 12V ECI engine bolted with a tiny electric motor and a CVT gearbox. This engine can produce from 52 to 64ps of power and judging from its fuel economy, it's a WLTP-calculated 20.8kmpl, which in outdated JC08 mode standards, is less fuel efficient than its main rival, the Suzuki Spacia.

Safety-wise, both the eK Space and Roox offered a wide range of safety tech from e-Assist to MI-PILOT. Too much information.

The new eK Space starts at 1,399,200 Japanese Yen (around $14,000) while the new Roox starts at 1,416,000 Japanese Yen (around $14,200). They're still cheaper to own than the bigger minivans, making them a fair value in the new normal. So, if you have a choice between them, which one will you choose and why? Because both the new eK Space and the new Roox are typically the same cars, your mystic other-worldly powers will help you decide.

Photo: Mitsubishi Motors Corporation/Nissan Motor Co., Ltd.