Mitsubishi Space Wagon
The Mitsubishi Space Wagon, also known as the Mitsubishi Chariot in some markets, is a vehicle that left a significant mark in the world of multi-purpose vehicles (MPVs). Produced by Mitsubishi Motors from 1983 to 2003, the Space Wagon was designed to meet the needs of families and individuals looking for a spacious, comfortable, and reliable vehicle. In this article, we’ll explore the history, features, and legacy of the Mitsubishi Space Wagon, making sure the information is easy to understand.
What is the Mitsubishi Space Wagon?
The Mitsubishi Space Wagon was created to be a practical and versatile vehicle, offering plenty of space for passengers and cargo. Over its 20 years of production, the Space Wagon went through three different generations, each with improvements in design, technology, and comfort. Let’s take a closer look at each generation and what made them unique.
First Generation (1983–1991): The Beginning
The first-generation Mitsubishi Space Wagon was introduced in 1983. At that time, the idea of a multi-purpose vehicle was still new, and the Space Wagon was among the pioneers in this category. It was designed with a boxy shape to maximize interior space, making it ideal for families.
Key Features:
- Seating: The Space Wagon could seat up to seven passengers, with rear seats that could be folded down or removed to create more cargo space.
- Engines: It came with a range of engine options, including 1.8-liter and 2.0-liter petrol engines, and a 2.0-liter diesel engine.
- Transmission: You could choose between a 5-speed manual or a 3-speed automatic transmission.
- Design: The first-generation Space Wagon had a simple, boxy design focused on practicality.
The flexibility of the seating arrangement made this vehicle popular among families. It was easy to switch from carrying passengers to hauling cargo, making it a versatile choice for various needs.
Second Generation (1991–1997): A Modern Makeover
In 1991, Mitsubishi introduced the second generation of the Space Wagon. This version had a more modern and aerodynamic design, moving away from the boxy look of the first generation. It was also slightly larger, offering more space and comfort.
Key Features:
- Engines: The second generation came with several engine options, including a 2.0-liter petrol engine, a 2.4-liter petrol engine, and a 2.0-liter turbocharged diesel engine.
- Transmission: This generation introduced a 4-speed automatic transmission, in addition to the 5-speed manual option.
- Drive Options: The vehicle was available in both front-wheel-drive and all-wheel-drive versions.
- Safety: New safety features like anti-lock brakes (ABS) and airbags were added to enhance the vehicle’s safety.
The second-generation Space Wagon was designed with more comfort and convenience in mind. It included features like power windows, air conditioning, and an upgraded audio system. The flexible seating was retained, allowing the rear seats to be folded flat or removed for extra cargo space.
Third Generation (1997–2003): The Final Evolution
The third and final generation of the Mitsubishi Space Wagon was launched in 1997. This version was the most advanced, with a sleek design, modern technology, and improved performance.
Key Features:
- Engines: This generation offered more powerful engines, including a 2.0-liter petrol engine, a 2.4-liter petrol engine, and a 3.0-liter V6 engine.
- Transmission: It came with either a 5-speed manual or a 4-speed automatic transmission.
- Interior: The interior was more luxurious, with features like leather seats, wood trim, and advanced technology such as climate control.
- Safety: Safety was a priority, with features like dual airbags, side-impact protection, and traction control.
The third-generation Space Wagon was designed to offer a more comfortable and enjoyable driving experience. The interior was spacious and filled with high-quality materials, making it a great choice for long trips or daily commutes.
Performance and Handling
Despite its size, the Mitsubishi Space Wagon was designed to handle like a regular passenger car. The front-engine, front-wheel-drive layout provided good traction, and the independent suspension system ensured a smooth and comfortable ride.
Engine Choices:
- 2.0-Liter and 2.4-Liter Engines: These engines provided enough power for everyday driving while maintaining good fuel efficiency.
- 3.0-Liter V6 Engine: For those who needed more power, this engine offered a more robust performance.
- Turbocharged Diesel Engines: These engines were known for their fuel economy and were a popular choice for those who needed to carry heavy loads.
The Space Wagon’s transmission options were designed to complement its engines, providing smooth gear changes and ease of use. The availability of all-wheel-drive in some models also made it suitable for various driving conditions, such as rain or snow.
Interior Comfort and Features
One of the main reasons people loved the Mitsubishi Space Wagon was its interior. The vehicle was spacious and comfortable, making it perfect for families or anyone who needed extra space.
Comfortable Seating:
- The seats were designed to be comfortable and supportive, with plenty of legroom and headroom for all passengers.
- The flexible seating arrangement allowed the rear seats to be folded flat or removed, creating a large cargo area when needed.
Interior Design:
- The third-generation Space Wagon featured a more luxurious interior, with options like leather upholstery and wood trim.
- Modern conveniences like climate control, power windows, and an advanced audio system made the vehicle even more enjoyable to drive.
Overall, the Mitsubishi Space Wagon provided a comfortable and versatile interior, making it a great choice for long trips, daily commutes, or even just running errands.
Safety Features
Mitsubishi prioritized safety in the Space Wagon, especially in the later generations. The vehicle was equipped with a range of safety features to protect its occupants.
Key Safety Features:
- Anti-Lock Brakes (ABS): This feature helped prevent the wheels from locking up during emergency braking, improving control.
- Airbags: Starting from the second generation, the Space Wagon was equipped with airbags, and the third generation featured dual front airbags.
- Side-Impact Protection: The vehicle was designed with reinforced door beams and a strong chassis to protect occupants in case of a collision.
- Traction Control: This feature helped prevent wheel spin during acceleration, especially on slippery surfaces.
These safety features made the Mitsubishi Space Wagon a reliable and secure choice for families and anyone who prioritized safety in their vehicle.
The Legacy of the Mitsubishi Space Wagon
The Mitsubishi Space Wagon played a crucial role in the development of the MPV segment. It offered a practical and versatile solution for families and individuals who needed more space without sacrificing comfort or performance.
Impact on the Automotive Industry:
- The Space Wagon was one of the early pioneers of the MPV category, setting the stage for future models from Mitsubishi and other manufacturers.
- It helped establish Mitsubishi’s reputation as a maker of practical and innovative vehicles, paving the way for later models like the Mitsubishi Outlander and ASX.
Although the Space Wagon was discontinued in 2003, its legacy lives on in modern MPVs and crossovers. The idea of a vehicle that can comfortably transport passengers while offering plenty of cargo space remains a popular choice for many drivers today.
Conclusion
The Mitsubishi Space Wagon was a remarkable vehicle that combined practicality, comfort, and performance in a versatile package. Over its 20 years of production, it evolved through three generations, each bringing new improvements and features. The Space Wagon’s spacious interior, flexible seating, and advanced safety features made it a popular choice among families and individuals alike.
Even though the Space Wagon is no longer in production, it remains a significant part of Mitsubishi’s history and continues to be fondly remembered by those who owned one. Its influence can still be seen in the MPVs and crossovers that followed, making it a vehicle worth celebrating.
The Mitsubishi Space Wagon is more than just a vehicle; it’s a piece of automotive history that showcased Mitsubishi’s commitment to innovation and quality. Whether you’re a car enthusiast or just someone who appreciates a good, reliable vehicle, the Space Wagon is a model that deserves recognition.