This Kei car resembles a miniature Mitsubishi Pajero from the 1980s now | Carscoops

      A new kit from Damd modifies the Mitsubishi Delica Mini without making significant changes that would drive up the price.

      The Damd "Dali" kit transforms the Delica Mini into a vintage Pajero.

      This kit features a boxy grille, nostalgic lights, bumper accents, and decals.

      Its design pays homage to Mitsubishi’s classic 1980s off-roader.

      The Mitsubishi Delica Mini is noted for being one of Japan’s most interesting kei cars, combining the charming proportions of a compact urban vehicle with elements taken from off-road vehicles. This unique combination provided Damd with an ideal base for a retro-styled kit, evoking the spirit of the original Pajero from the 1980s.

      The Delica Mini was launched in the spring of 2023 and received a facelift in the autumn of 2025. Damd's version, called “Dali” (short for Dakar Rally), is built on the updated model.

      The modifications include a vintage-style front, new graphics, and a selection of accessories that enhance the off-road aesthetic while remaining true to the kei car design.

      Key Retro Features within Kei Constraints

      The standout feature of the design is the round headlights with separate indicators, reminiscent of the first generation Pajero (also known as Montero and Shogun in some markets). The matte black headlight housing is linked to the boxy grille, which has a unique opening for the original Mitsubishi emblem that accommodates the ADAS sensors.

      Rather than redesigning the front bumper, Damd retained the original panel and added an elegant garnish with glossy black and aluminum-like finishes. This alteration changes the look while preserving the factory sensors and cooling intakes, as well as the embedded Delica lettering.

      The Damd Dali (above) compared to the Mitsubishi Delica Mini (below)

      The new features do not alter the kei car's dimensions, maintaining the 3,395 mm (133.7 inches) length and 1,475 mm (58.1 inches) width, both of which are subject to regulations. The tuner also kept the original Beige color, complementing it with a custom decal set that introduces matte black and wood-textured inserts along the side.

      The demonstration model is fitted with 15-inch Damd Cantabile alloys wrapped in 165/56R15 tires, providing extra grip for the compact vehicle. A roof basket enhances the exterior, while interior modifications are still being finalized. Seat covers are anticipated to complete the transformation.

      Even though the design embraces a full safari look, the performance remains unaltered. There are no mechanical enhancements included in the kit. The most powerful version of the Delica Mini is equipped with a turbocharged 660cc three-cylinder engine generating 63 horsepower and 100 Nm of torque.

      This engine is paired with a CVT transmission and, in certain versions, a full-time 4WD system. This 4WD option seems to align perfectly with a Pajero-inspired design, despite it leaning more toward aesthetics than performance.

      Coming Soon to Japan

      Damd has announced that the components are nearing the final stages of development and will soon be available in Japan. While pricing details have not been disclosed, the company suggests it will be affordable, owing to the modest adjustments that fit within the vehicle's existing framework.

      The Dali will be showcased at the Damd booth during the Tokyo Auto Salon 2026, alongside a Lancia-inspired Suzuki Jimny and a couple of vintage-style Honda minivans.