Another reason for keeping the exterior's shape and detail so simple is to bring out the "Rib Bone Frame" exterior structure. Similar to the way smart's vehicles feature the visible Tridion safety frame, Mitsubishi is putting the D:5's structure front and centre. Three gigantic glass roof panels provide the biggest clue; spaced between them are thick metal beams visible from the interior and exterior. The skylights also help to
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| The D:5 looks unstoppable, and should definitely appeal to the 'lifted and widened' all-terrain van crowd. (Photo: Mitsubishi Motors North America) |
create a spacious feeling inside, while allowing passengers to watch the world around streak by. Panoramic side windows feature spars and pillars which run up and down, furthering the extra-safe appearance. With 20-inch three-spoke wheels on custom-made tires, the D:5 looks unstoppable, and should definitely appeal to the 'lifted and widened' all-terrain van crowd.
While it's blocky and intimidating appearance might suggest a brute of a powerplant, it is brains over brawn for this van. Under its hood is the latest incarnation of Mitsubishi's new 16-valve, DOHC 2.4-litre MIVEC engine, the same entry-level engine that will be featured in a host of new Mitsubishi products including the next generation Outlander (as well as many Chrysler Group products and even some Hyundai/Kia economy cars). One hundred and seventy horses might not seem like much, but it'll be top-level performance for this segment, oft
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| The engine isn't the only thing that the D:5 shares with the Outlander - its general structure and underpinnings are common too. (Photo: Mitsubishi Motors North America) |
powered by sputtering naturally aspirated diesel engines. To make the most of what's present, the engine is mated to Mitsu's latest INVECS III CVT gearbox. It also features a sports mode which allows drivers to select from six fixed ratios for quicker, more direct acceleration.
The engine isn't the only thing that the D:5 shares with the Outlander - its general structure and underpinnings are common too. Front MacPherson struts and rear multi-links now feature off-road capable springs and dampers with extra travel to cope with rough and unpaved roads - a combination that allows the D:5 to provide good road holding and a comfortable ride on city streets without punishing occupants when the going gets rough. Like the Outlander, the D:5's four-wheel drive is provided through an electronically controlled transfer case with three operating modes: 2WD, 4WD Auto and 4WD Lock.
