Introducing the Mitsubishi Versa Van: a market-specific global product
The Mitsubishi Versa Van is not designed for global showrooms in Europe or North America. Instead, it targets specific emerging and utility-focused markets, where durability, low operating costs and proven mechanical platforms matter more than cutting-edge design.
This model is expected to be offered primarily in Latin America, parts of Southeast Asia, the Middle East and selected African markets, regions where passenger shuttles and light commercial vans play a key role in daily mobility, tourism and small businesses.
Technically, the Versa Van is based on a long-established platform: it is a rebadged version of the Nissan Caravan, a model that has been in production for over 15 years. Mitsubishi’s approach here is pragmatic rather than revolutionary—leveraging an existing diesel-powered architecture to meet local needs, regulations and price expectations.
Rather than a new-generation van, the Versa represents a regional mobility solution, aligned with markets where simplicity, reliability and ease of maintenance remain decisive purchase factors. Through this strategy, Mitsubishi reinforces its presence in utility and fleet-oriented segments, without positioning the Versa Van as a global product.
Key Features of the Mitsubishi Versa Van
- Debuts in the Philippines as a 15-seater passenger shuttle.
- Rebadged from the Nissan Caravan, originally launched in 2011.
- Powered by a Mitsubishi 2.5L turbodiesel engine producing 127 hp.
Design and Practicality
The exterior design closely resembles the Nissan Caravan, which is sold locally as the Urvan. It has received facelifts in 2017 and 2021, but the Versa Van features only the Mitsubishi badges and its unique lettering on the tailgate.
In terms of design, practicality takes precedence over aesthetics. The Mitsubishi Versa Van comes equipped with:
- Halogen headlights
- Unpainted plastic bumpers
- Small steel wheels with hubcaps
Interior Layout and Comfort
Inside, the van accommodates 15 passengers across five rows. Each row has dedicated A/C vents to maintain comfort during travel. However, there is only one sliding door for entry, necessitating foldable seats on the right-hand side for easier access.
Safety features are basic, providing front airbags for the driver and passenger, while rear passengers only receive seatbelts. The cabin is designed for maximum capacity with minimal frills.
Engine and Performance
The Mitsubishi Versa rides on a ladder-frame chassis and is powered by a mid-mounted 2.5-liter 4D56 turbodiesel engine. Key specifications include:
- Power output: 127 hp (95 kW / 129 PS)
- Torque: 356 Nm (263 lb-ft)
- Transmission: Five-speed manual gearbox
- Fuel tank capacity: 65 liters (17 gallons)
This configuration is aimed at providing extended range for long-distance travel without frequent refueling stops.
Pricing and Competition
The 2026 Mitsubishi Versa is available in the Philippines starting at ₱1,649,000 (approximately $28,000). This price point is significantly higher than that of the Mitsubishi L300 Cab & Chassis, which starts at ₱813,000 ($13,900), and only ₱89,000 ($1,500) more than the mechanically identical Nissan Urvan Standard.
In this segment, the Versa competes with other 15-seater vans like the Toyota HiAce Commuter, JAC Sunray, Foton Transvan, and Maxus V80.
A Blast from the Past
The Mitsubishi Versa may evoke a sense of nostalgia, but it also raises questions about its relevance in today’s market. With a name that harkens back to Mitsubishi’s history in the late 1980s, this van showcases how some automotive models refuse to fade away.
