The Mitsubishi Space Star (DG0) 1.9 DI-D is a compact minivan produced by Mitsubishi Motors between 2001 and 2004. Primarily aimed at the European market, it represented Mitsubishi’s entry into the increasingly popular small MPV (Multi-Purpose Vehicle) segment. While not officially sold in the United States, the Space Star offered a practical and fuel-efficient option for families seeking a versatile vehicle in a smaller package. The DG0 generation was a significant departure from previous Space Star models, focusing on maximizing interior space and offering a diesel engine option for improved economy.
Mitsubishi Space Star (DG0) 1.9 DI-D: An Overview
The Space Star DG0 was designed to compete with vehicles like the Renault Scénic and Opel/Vauxhall Zafira, though at a slightly smaller scale. It distinguished itself with a relatively affordable price point and a focus on practicality. The 1.9 DI-D variant, equipped with a direct-injection diesel engine, was particularly popular in Europe due to favorable tax regulations and growing demand for fuel-efficient vehicles. The Space Star’s design prioritized interior space and modularity, offering flexible seating arrangements and a generous cargo capacity for its size.
Engine & Performance
The heart of the Space Star 1.9 DI-D is a 1.9-liter inline-four cylinder diesel engine, designated the F9Q2. This engine produces 115 horsepower at 4000 rpm and 265 Nm (195.45 lb.-ft.) of torque at 1800 rpm. The engine utilizes a turbocharger with an intercooler to enhance performance and efficiency. The diesel commonrail fuel injection system contributes to smooth power delivery and reduced emissions. The engine’s power-to-weight ratio is 11 kg/Hp, and the torque-to-weight ratio is 4.8 kg/Nm, providing adequate performance for everyday driving. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) takes 10.3 seconds, while 0 to 60 mph is achieved in approximately 9.8 seconds. The vehicle boasts a maximum speed of 190 km/h (118.06 mph). Fuel economy is a strong point, with urban consumption rated at 7.1 l/100 km (33.1 US mpg), and extra-urban consumption at 4.6 l/100 km (51.1 US mpg).
Design & Features
The Mitsubishi Space Star DG0 is a five-door minivan with seating for five passengers. Its design is characterized by a tall, boxy silhouette maximizing interior volume. The exterior styling is functional rather than flamboyant, reflecting the vehicle’s focus on practicality. Key features include a spacious interior, flexible seating arrangements, and a large trunk area. The rear seats can be folded or removed to create a larger cargo space, ranging from a minimum of 370 liters (13.07 cu. ft.) to a maximum of 1370 liters (48.38 cu. ft.). Safety features for the era included ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) as standard equipment. The vehicle’s hydraulic power steering and rack and pinion steering system provide responsive handling. The standard tire size is 185/65 R14. The Space Star’s interior is designed with durability and ease of use in mind, featuring simple controls and hard-wearing materials.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mitsubishi |
| Model | Space Star |
| Generation | Space Star (DG0) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.9 DI-D (115 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2001 |
| End of production | 2004 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Minivan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 7.1 l/100 km (33.1 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 4.6 l/100 km (51.1 US mpg) |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 10.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 10.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 9.8 sec |
| Maximum speed | 190 km/h (118.06 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 11 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.8 kg/Nm |
| Power | 115 Hp @ 4000 rpm |
| Torque | 265 Nm @ 1800 rpm (195.45 lb.-ft. @ 1800 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | F9Q2 |
| Engine displacement | 1870 cm3 (114.11 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 80 mm (3.15 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 93 mm (3.66 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 19:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 2 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | OHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 5 l (5.28 US qt | 4.4 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1260 kg (2777.82 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1730 kg (3814 lbs.) |
| Max load | 470 kg (1036.17 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 | 4050 mm (159.45 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 (Back) track | 1470 mm (57.87 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 5 gears, manual 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 Steering |
| Tires size | 185/65 R14 |
The Mitsubishi Space Star DG0 1.9 DI-D, while not a mainstream vehicle in the US market, offered a compelling package of practicality, fuel efficiency, and affordability in Europe. Its design and features reflected the needs of families seeking a versatile and economical vehicle for everyday use. The 1.9 DI-D engine provided a good balance of performance and fuel economy, making it a popular choice among European buyers.
