The Mitsubishi Space Wagon II 2.0 GLXi (N33W), produced between 1992 and 1998, represents the second generation of Mitsubishi’s compact MPV (Multi-Purpose Vehicle). While not officially sold in the United States, the Space Wagon was a popular choice in European and Asian markets, offering a practical and spacious alternative to larger vans. It competed with vehicles like the Renault Espace, Volkswagen Sharan, and Toyota Previa, focusing on family transport with a flexible interior and relatively affordable price point. The “GLXi” trim level denoted a higher specification, typically including features like power windows and upgraded interior trim.
Mitsubishi Space Wagon II: An Overview
The Space Wagon II built upon the success of the original Space Wagon, offering improved styling, a more refined interior, and enhanced mechanical components. It was designed to cater to families needing a versatile vehicle capable of carrying up to seven passengers. The N33W designation refers to the specific chassis code for this generation and engine configuration. The 2.0 GLXi model, equipped with a 2.0-liter inline-four engine, was a common variant, providing a balance of performance and fuel economy for its intended purpose.
Engine & Performance
Powering the Mitsubishi Space Wagon II 2.0 GLXi is a 1,997 cc (121.86 cubic inches) inline-four cylinder gasoline engine. This naturally aspirated engine produces 133 horsepower at 6000 rpm and 176 Nm (129.81 lb-ft) of torque at 4750 rpm. The engine utilizes a multi-port fuel injection system and an overhead camshaft (OHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder. This configuration delivers a power-to-liter ratio of 66.6 hp/l. The engine’s output translates to a 0-60 mph acceleration time of approximately 10.6 seconds and a top speed of 185 km/h (114.95 mph). The vehicle’s weight-to-power ratio is 10.2 kg/hp, and the weight-to-torque ratio is 7.7 kg/Nm. Power is delivered to the front wheels via a five-speed manual transmission.
Design & Features
The Space Wagon II is a five-door minivan with a boxy, yet functional design typical of the early 1990s. Its primary focus was maximizing interior space and practicality. The vehicle comfortably seats seven passengers across three rows, with the rear seats often being foldable or removable to create a larger cargo area. The trunk space ranges from a minimum of 212 liters (7.49 cubic feet) with all seats in place to a maximum of 1714 liters (60.53 cubic feet) with the rear seats folded or removed.
Features of the GLXi trim included hydraulic power steering, ventilated disc brakes on the front wheels, and drum brakes on the rear. Suspension consisted of a wishbone setup at the front and coil springs at the rear. Safety features, while limited by the standards of the time, included seatbelts for all passengers. The Space Wagon II prioritized functionality and affordability over luxurious appointments, making it a popular choice for families seeking a practical and reliable vehicle.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mitsubishi |
| Model | Space Wagon |
| Generation | Space Wagon II |
| Type | 2.0 GLXi (N33W) (133 Hp) |
| Start of production | 1992 |
| End of production | 1998 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Minivan |
| Seats | 7 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 9.1 l/100 km |
| Fuel consumption (US mpg) | 25.8 US mpg |
| Fuel consumption (UK mpg) | 31 UK mpg |
| Fuel consumption (km/l) | 11 km/l |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 11.2 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 11.2 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 10.6 sec |
| Maximum speed | 185 km/h (114.95 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 10.2 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 7.7 kg/Nm |
| Power | 133 Hp @ 6000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 66.6 Hp/l |
| Torque | 176 Nm @ 4750 rpm (129.81 lb.-ft. @ 4750 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine displacement | 1997 cm3 (121.86 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 85 mm (3.35 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 88 mm (3.46 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | OHC |
| Kerb Weight | 1351 kg (2978.45 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1980 kg (4365.15 lbs.) |
| Max load | 629 kg (1386.71 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 212 l (7.49 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1714 l (60.53 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 60 l (15.85 US gal | 13.2 UK gal) |
| Length | 4515 mm (177.76 in.) |
| Width | 1695 mm (66.73 in.) |
| Height | 1615 mm (63.58 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2720 mm (107.09 in.) |
| Front track | 1460 mm (57.48 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1460 mm (57.48 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 5 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Wishbone |
| Rear suspension | Coil spring |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Drum |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 185/70 R14 |
The Mitsubishi Space Wagon II 2.0 GLXi (N33W) remains a testament to the practicality and versatility demanded by families in the 1990s. While not a performance vehicle, it offered a comfortable and spacious interior, reasonable fuel economy, and a reliable powertrain, making it a popular choice in its target markets.
