The Mitsubishi Space Wagon III 2.4 GDi 16V 4X4 Automatic, produced between 1998 and 2004, represents the third generation of Mitsubishi’s popular minivan. While not widely sold in the United States, the Space Wagon held a significant position in the European and Asian markets as a practical and versatile family vehicle. It competed with models like the Renault Espace, Volkswagen Sharan, and Toyota Previa, offering a blend of space, comfort, and available all-wheel drive. This generation marked an evolution in design and technology for the Space Wagon, focusing on improved fuel efficiency and enhanced safety features compared to its predecessors.
Mitsubishi Space Wagon III: An Overview
The Space Wagon III was designed to cater to families needing a spacious and adaptable vehicle. Its five-seat configuration, combined with a generous cargo area, made it ideal for both daily commutes and longer journeys. The availability of a 2.4-liter GDi (Gasoline Direct Injection) engine and a four-speed automatic transmission provided a balance between performance and ease of driving. The all-wheel-drive system further enhanced its appeal in regions with challenging weather conditions, offering improved traction and stability.
Engine & Performance
At the heart of the Space Wagon III 2.4 GDi 16V 4X4 lies a 2.4-liter inline-four cylinder engine. This naturally aspirated engine, equipped with Gasoline Direct Injection (GDi) technology, produces 147 horsepower at 5700 rpm and 211 Nm (155.63 lb.-ft.) of torque at 3500 rpm. The GDi system improves fuel efficiency and power output by directly injecting fuel into the combustion chamber. The engine’s power-to-weight ratio of 11.5 kg/Hp (87.2 Hp/tonne) provides adequate performance for everyday driving. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) takes 12.4 seconds, while 0 to 60 mph is achieved in approximately 11.8 seconds. The vehicle boasts a maximum speed of 185 km/h (114.95 mph). The four-speed automatic transmission delivers smooth gear changes, contributing to a comfortable driving experience.
Design & Features
The Space Wagon III features a traditional minivan silhouette with a five-door configuration. Its design prioritizes practicality and interior space. The vehicle’s dimensions – 4600 mm (181.1 in) in length, 1775 mm (69.88 in) in width, and 1690 mm (66.54 in) in height – provide ample room for passengers and cargo. The wheelbase of 2780 mm (109.45 in) contributes to a stable ride. Inside, the Space Wagon III offers a comfortable and functional cabin. The five-seat layout provides sufficient space for passengers, and the rear seats can be folded or removed to create a larger cargo area. Trunk space ranges from a minimum of 240 liters (8.48 cu. ft.) to a maximum of 1930 liters (68.16 cu. ft.) with the rear seats folded. Safety features for the era included ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) and hydraulic power steering. The suspension system, comprised of wishbones at the front and coil springs at the rear, is designed to provide a comfortable and controlled ride. Ventilated disc brakes are fitted to the front wheels, while disc brakes are used at the rear.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mitsubishi |
| Model | Space Wagon |
| Generation | Space Wagon III |
| Type | 2.4 GDi 16V 4X4 (147 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | 1998 |
| End of production | 2004 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Minivan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 12.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 12.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 11.8 sec |
| Maximum speed | 185 km/h (114.95 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 11.5 kg/Hp, 87.2 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 8 kg/Nm, 125.2 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 147 Hp @ 5700 rpm |
| Power per litre | 62.6 Hp/l |
| Torque | 211 Nm @ 3500 rpm (155.63 lb.-ft. @ 3500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine displacement | 2350 cm3 (143.41 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 86.5 mm (3.41 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 100 mm (3.94 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 11.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Kerb Weight | 1685 kg (3714.79 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2260 kg (4982.45 lbs.) |
| Max load | 575 kg (1267.66 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 240 l (8.48 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1930 l (68.16 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 58 l (15.32 US gal | 12.76 UK gal) |
| Length | 4600 mm (181.1 in.) |
| Width | 1775 mm (69.88 in.) |
| Height | 1690 mm (66.54 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2780 mm (109.45 in.) |
| Front track | 1500 mm (59.06 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1535 mm (60.43 in.) |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 4 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Wishbone |
| Rear suspension | Coil spring |
| 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 | 205/65 R15 |
| Wheel rims size | 15 |
The Mitsubishi Space Wagon III 2.4 GDi 16V 4X4 Automatic, while not a common sight on American roads, offered a compelling package for families in its target markets. Its blend of space, practicality, and available all-wheel drive made it a popular choice for those seeking a versatile and reliable minivan.
