From its inception, the Asia Cross Country Rally (AXCR) has been a proving ground for some of the most rugged and innovative vehicles on the planet. In this year’s rally, Mitsubishi is not just putting its latest generation of the Triton pickup truck to the test but also showcasing a heavily modified Delica D:5 as a support vehicle for the grueling multi-day, long-distance race.
A Nod to the Past with an Eye on the Future
The Mitsubishi Delica D:5 is a forbidden fruit for many enthusiasts. This van, sold in limited territories and not available in the Philippines, is the latest iteration of the bulbous, off-road-capable vehicle that gained fame in the 1990s. For JDM enthusiasts and overlanding fans, the Delica name carries significant weight, embodying a mix of practicality and ruggedness that has become increasingly rare in the automotive world.
The 2024 AXCR marks a special occasion for the Delica D:5, as it steps into the spotlight as one of the support vehicles for Team Mitsubishi Ralliart. The team is defending its AXCR championship title, and the Delica D:5 is a crucial component of its strategy. Much like the two Land Rover Defenders that were sent to the Dakar Rally in 2020, the Delica D:5 will provide technical backup, analyze competitor data, and handle the logistics necessary for the rally team to succeed.
Modifications Fit for a Champion
To keep up with the demands of the rally, the Delica D:5 has undergone several modifications. These include a set of Work Wheels wrapped in all-terrain Yokohama tires, auxiliary lights to illuminate the dense jungles of Thailand, and various off-road body parts from Jaos. These upgrades enhance the van’s already impressive off-road capabilities, making it a formidable player in the rally despite its role as a support vehicle.
Under the hood, the Delica D:5 is presumed to use its stock 2.2-liter diesel engine, which produces a modest 170 hp and 394 Nm of torque. This powertrain, while less potent than the Triton’s new 2.4-liter turbodiesel engine is more than capable of tackling the rugged terrain of the AXCR. Furthermore, the Delica D:5 features a locking differential and a 4WD system, ensuring it can handle the most challenging conditions the rally has to offer.
The Spirit of Adventure
The AXCR is no ordinary rally. Covering a distance of over 2,100 kilometers within Thailand, the journey is a break-neck adventure through some of the most challenging jungle terrains in the world. For Team Mitsubishi Ralliart, the stakes are high. As the defending 2022 champions and third placer in 2023, they face stiff competition from teams eager to claim the prestigious title.
In this context, the Delica D:5’s role is critical. Its ability to provide real-time support, maintain communication with the rally team, and offer logistical assistance could make the difference between victory and defeat. But beyond its practical applications, the Delica D:5 represents a dream for many overlanding enthusiasts — a capable, reliable, and versatile vehicle that can handle anything the road, or the lack thereof, throws its way.
A Wish for More
As an overlander, the Mitsubishi Delica D:5 is a tantalizing prospect. Its combination of practicality, off-road prowess, and rugged charm make it a unique offering in a market saturated with SUVs and crossovers that rarely live up to their adventurous promises. Unfortunately, for now, the Delica D:5 remains out of reach for many potential buyers, confined to select markets.
However, as the Delica D:5 continues to prove itself in events like the AXCR, perhaps the demand for such vehicles will grow, and this forbidden fruit will find its way to new territories. Until then, we can only admire the Delica D:5 from afar, dreaming of the adventures we could have in this remarkable overlander.
