Delica Canada | Mitsubishi Van Club

After 5 years of Delica awesomeness and about 12 of RHD, the time might be approaching to look at something a bit newer. (I really don't feel like changing out any more heater cores.) The problem is, as you well know, there is really nothing out there to truly replace the almighty van. I've done some looking, and have a few ideas, but I thought I might put it out there to the people who understand, any suggestions of something that could compare?
Criteria include seating for 3 adults, two car seats and a 45 lb dog (plus space for assorted adventure gear...guessing I'll need a roof box), off road capable (a number of potentials on my list would require a lift) better fuel economy than my van (that should be easy) and probably 2007-2011. (seems to be the sweet spot for depreciation vs. maintenence)
Really don't want a full size behemoth, but I'm six three, and finding space for any size of human sitting behind me seems challenging.
All that having been said, any suggestions? Thanks in advance for your opinions.

How about a newer model Delica? You're familiar with them as well so that's a plus. I checked out a Nissan El Grande, 3.2 turbo diesel, beautiful interior, like luxury but not sure of its off road capabilities. Probably more an AWD city and highway vehicle. I'm loving my new Townace pick up which Toyota makes in a van body, definitely a contender with the Delica and about the same size. Also, the Townace is very common in Japan so tons of options to choose from in terms of motor, length, high roof and drive train. You could step up to the Sprinter size van. They're becoming pretty common and I've seen some cool off road, camping conversions. Lots of room for a tall guy in there as well.

Just some ideas!

Ralph in Winnipeg

If you hold off for another 4 years you could get a Delica D5...

Great ideas.... Except.... I still end up in the same situation. A "new" 15 year old car that's ready for collectors plates in 10 years. My wife wants us to get newer to avoid the peculiarities associated with older metal. For what it's worth. I'm all over the D5☺

I got an elgrand 3.2 diesel after my L300 Delica blew a head gasket and now I’ve fixed my head gasket and have 2 vans. The elgrand is awesome and my wife and kids never want to drive in the Delica anymore. The clearance is the only problem with the elgrand for off-road.