On the outside, the D:5 might take on the appearance of a Tonka Truck, but inside its van dimensions are filled with modern, trendy lounge appointments. Worn-look brown leather is used on the seats and dash pads, while polished aluminum is extensively featured on the console and accents. The detailing is spectacular from the pedals to the vents and
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| Worn-look brown leather is used on the seats and dash pads, while polished aluminum is extensively featured on the console and accents. (Photo: Mitsubishi Motors North America) |
etched door latches. A minimalist approach to the instruments and controls, centering around an iDrive-like knob on the centre console and a series of trigger-buttons on the steering wheel ensure that the vehicle itself is free from clutter; even if your belongings aren't. On the side of practicality, all seats fold flat away - including the driver and passenger's to create a completely flat floor.
The D:5's presentation will also show three new technologies, a few of which are firsts for Mitsubishi. First up, ten millimeter wave sensors placed on the bumpers provide assistance during parking. They also warn on closely-approaching objects, and provide an extra set of eyes for low objects when reversing. The other two systems are for use at higher speeds; Lane Trace Assist uses a camera to monitor divided and fixed lines, and uses the car's electronic power steering
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| On the side of practicality, all seats fold flat away - including the driver and passenger's to create a completely flat floor. (Photo: Mitsubishi Motors North America) |
system to keep it on course if it detects any deviation from path, while Adaptive Cruise Control uses the peripheral monitoring system in conjunction with the engine, brakes and CVT to keep a safe distance from vehicles in front when activated.
With its remaining days numbered, a replacement to the Delcia is needed - the D:5 Concept suits this job perfectly. Not only does it have the right mechanical components to make it appealing, but it has style (bricks are stylish in England at least) and therefore desirability - something that, aside from practicality has yet to be seen in a monobox van. If the D:5 gets put into production in this form, or something remotely close to it, it'll have the competition playing serious catch up in a market that almost never puts focus on vans. And for that, Mitsubishi deserves to succeed, even if the oddly shaped model never makes it to North America.
