The Mitsubishi Space Star (DG0) is a compact minivan produced by Mitsubishi Motors from 1998 to 2004. While not officially sold in the United States, the Space Star was a significant model in the European market, positioned as an affordable and practical family vehicle. It competed with other small MPVs like the Renault Scénic and Opel Zafira, offering a spacious interior and versatile seating arrangements within a relatively small footprint. The DG0 generation represented Mitsubishi’s attempt to capitalize on the growing popularity of the minivan segment, providing a budget-friendly alternative to larger, more expensive options.
Mitsubishi Space Star (DG0): An Overview
The Space Star DG0 was designed to appeal to families seeking a practical and economical vehicle for everyday use. Its five-seater configuration and flexible cargo space made it suitable for both urban commuting and longer journeys. The 1.8-liter engine, paired with an automatic transmission, provided adequate performance for most driving situations. The Space Star’s design prioritized functionality over outright style, resulting in a vehicle that was appreciated for its practicality and reliability.
Engine & Performance
The Mitsubishi Space Star DG0 1.8 16V is powered by a 1.8-liter inline-four cylinder gasoline engine. This naturally aspirated engine produces 112 horsepower at 5500 rpm and 157 Nm (115.8 lb.-ft.) of torque at 4000 rpm. While not a performance-oriented vehicle, the engine delivers sufficient power for everyday driving. The power-to-weight ratio of 11 kg/Hp (90.7 Hp/tonne) reflects the vehicle’s focus on practicality rather than speed. The engine features a multi-port fuel injection system and an overhead camshaft (OHC) valvetrain. The 4-speed automatic transmission provides smooth gear changes, enhancing the driving experience. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) takes 13.2 seconds, while 0 to 60 mph is achieved in approximately 12.5 seconds. The vehicle has a maximum speed of 180 km/h (111.85 mph). Fuel consumption is rated at 8.8 liters per 100 kilometers (26.7 US mpg, 32.1 UK mpg, 11.4 km/l).
Design & Features
The Space Star DG0 is a five-door minivan with a functional and unassuming design. Its compact dimensions – 4030 mm (158.66 in) in length, 1715 mm (67.52 in) in width, and 1515 mm (59.65 in) in height – make it relatively easy to maneuver in urban environments. The interior is designed to maximize space and practicality. The rear seats can be folded down to create a larger cargo area, offering a minimum of 370 liters (13.07 cu. ft.) and a maximum of 1370 liters (48.38 cu. ft.) of storage space. Standard features included power steering, ventilated front disc brakes, and disc brakes on the rear wheels. An Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was also included as a safety feature. The suspension consists of a wishbone setup at the front and a spring strut arrangement at the rear, providing a comfortable ride. The vehicle rides on 14-inch wheels with 185/65 R14 tires.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mitsubishi |
| Model | Space Star |
| Generation | Space Star (DG0) |
| Type | 1.8 16V (112 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | 1998 |
| End of production | 2004 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Minivan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 8.8 l/100 km |
| Fuel consumption (US mpg) | 26.7 US mpg |
| Fuel consumption (UK mpg) | 32.1 UK mpg |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 13.2 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 13.2 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 12.5 sec |
| Maximum speed | 180 km/h (111.85 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 11 kg/Hp |
| Power | 112 Hp @ 5500 rpm |
| Torque | 157 Nm @ 4000 rpm (115.8 lb.-ft. @ 4000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine displacement | 1834 cm3 (111.92 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 81 mm (3.19 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 89 mm (3.5 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 9.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated |
| Valvetrain | OHC |
| Kerb Weight | 1235 kg (2722.71 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1700 kg (3747.86 lbs.) |
| Max load | 465 kg (1025.15 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 370 l (13.07 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1370 l (48.38 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 55 l (14.53 US gal | 12.1 UK gal) |
| Length | 4030 mm (158.66 in.) |
| Width | 1715 mm (67.52 in.) |
| Height | 1515 mm (59.65 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2500 mm (98.43 in.) |
| Front track | 1475 mm (58.07 in.) |
| Rear track | 1470 mm (57.87 in.) |
| Drivetrain | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 4 |
| Gearbox type | Automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Wishbone |
| Rear suspension | Spring Strut |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic |
| Tires size | 185/65 R14 |
| Wheel rims size | 14 |
The Mitsubishi Space Star DG0, while not a groundbreaking vehicle, served as a practical and affordable option for families in Europe. Its combination of a spacious interior, reasonable fuel economy, and reliable powertrain made it a popular choice in its segment. Although it wasn’t sold in the US market, it represents a significant part of Mitsubishi’s global product strategy during the late 1990s and early 2000s.
