Almost a month ago, President Trump made a comment at a press conference saying he had approved the construction of tiny cars in America, sending many American car enthusiasts into a frenzy. The notion of an affordable, pint-sized adventure vehicle has obvious appeal, and there is little doubt that Japan’s hugely popular kei cars (an abbreviation of the word keijidōsha, which translates literally to “light automobile”) would attract buyers if they ever reached US dealership showrooms. The reality, however, is less straightforward.
Kei cars were never formally banned in the United States, but were effectively excluded by federal safety and emissions regulations. Meeting past and current FMVSS and EPA standards would require costly redesigns that undermine the very size, simplicity, and affordability that define the category, while limited consumer demand further discouraged manufacturers from pursuing US homologation.
One of Japan’s most enduring small adventure vehicles is the Mitsubishi Delica, a model that has achieved a cult following worldwide for its distinctive design and go-anywhere reputation. Although the Delica was sold new in the United States for only a brief period, from 1987 to 1990, and in limited numbers, its appeal has only grown over time through enthusiast imports under the 25-year rule.
To remind us what we can’t have, Mitsubishi Motors Corporation is presenting an array of customized vehicles centered on its Delica series at the Tokyo Auto Salon 2026, underscoring its ongoing engagement with the customization segment of the automotive market and its commitment to expanding the appeal of its core models. The Tokyo Auto Salon 2026 is one of the world’s largest automotive custom shows, scheduled to take place from January 9 through January 11 at Makuhari Messe in Chiba, Japan.
The exhibit will feature 11 vehicles, with a particular focus on bespoke versions of the all-new Delica Mini super-height wagon kei car and the upgraded Delica D:5 minivan. Mitsubishi Motors has framed this presentation as the “Delica Festival,” a thematic showcase that combines cultural elements with vehicle customization to attract visitors and spotlight the versatility of its products.
At the center of the display will be a series of custom vehicles that reinterpret the Delica models for different uses and styles. These include versions of the Delica D:5 and Delica Mini designed for off-road use, outdoor recreation, and aesthetic variation, reflecting the brand’s broader strategy of engaging with lifestyle-oriented consumers. In addition to the customized consumer vehicles, Mitsubishi Motors will display the actual rally car that won overall victory at the Asia Cross Country Rally 2025 (AXCR 2025), along with the Delica D:5 support car used during that competition. These vehicles serve as tangible demonstrations of the Delica platform’s durability and performance in demanding environments.
The “Delica Festival” booth setting is designed to create an immersive experience for visitors. The Delica D:5 Ultimate Gear model is a highlight of the exhibit. This variant emphasizes rugged capability, with the vehicle’s body lifted by 30 millimeters and equipped with bumper guards and side steps intended to prepare it for rougher terrain. A rugged, textured coating is applied to the exterior to make small scratches less visible and reinforce the vehicle’s off-road readiness.
Complementing this is the Delica Mini Ultimate Gear model, specially prepared for the Tokyo Auto Salon 2026. This version is distinguished by an exclusive two-tone finish, rugged textured coatings, and additional accessories, including a roof rack, grille guard, and rear ladder, along with a 20-millimeter suspension lift. These features aim to broaden the appeal of the Delica Mini to consumers seeking both functional and stylistic upgrades.
Other vehicles on display include the Delica D:5 Active Camper and Delica Mini Active Camper models, which incorporate elements of outdoor lifestyle branding. The Delica D:5 Active Camper pairs a white birch wood-grain finish with a brown interior and reflects a collaboration with the outdoor brand Logos, while the Delica Mini Active Camper combines off-road enhancements with retro styling cues inspired by classic models.
Additional custom interpretations, such as the Delica D:5 Wild Adventure style and Delica Mini Wild Adventure style, will also be exhibited. These versions feature genuine Mitsubishi Motors accessories, including specially designed roof carriers, rally-inspired mud flaps with straps, and stainless-steel undercovers. Each of these models illustrates different facets of the Delica lineup, from practical upgrades to stylistic experimentation.
For the wistful Delica fan, one of the custom models on show is the Delica Mini Delimaru Festa edition, which features playful decals and wraps that reference the Delimaru character, the official dog-like mascot for the Delica Mini kei-car. A large figure of Delimaru riding on a Delica Mini, dressed in a traditional Japanese happi coat, will also be part of the display, aligning with the festival theme. This approach signals Mitsubishi Motors’ interest in integrating cultural and design elements into its custom vehicle displays.
Any of these vehicles could be yours if you are incredibly patient. Under current US vehicle import regulations, vehicles that were never certified for sale in the United States can be legally imported and registered only after reaching 25 years of age.
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