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, adopting a more modern design and a range of efficient diesel engines, including the 1.9 DI-D featured here, producing 102 horsepower.
Mitsubishi Space Star (DG0) 1.9 DI-D: An Overview
The Space Star DG0 was designed to compete with vehicles like the Renault Scénic, Opel/Vauxhall Zafira, and Citroën Xsara Picasso. Its key selling points were its compact dimensions, relatively spacious interior, and economical diesel engine options. The 1.9 DI-D engine, in particular, was praised for its balance of performance and fuel efficiency. The vehicle’s five-seater configuration and flexible seating arrangements further enhanced its practicality, making it a popular choice for small families and those needing a versatile vehicle for both urban and highway driving.
Engine & Performance
The heart of the Space Star 1.9 DI-D is a 1.9-liter inline-four cylinder diesel engine, designated F9Q1. This engine produces 102 horsepower at 4000 rpm and 215 Nm (158.58 lb.-ft.) of torque at 1700 rpm. The engine utilizes a turbocharger with an intercooler to enhance power output and efficiency. A diesel commonrail fuel injection system ensures precise fuel delivery, contributing to improved combustion and reduced emissions. The engine’s power-to-weight ratio is 13.2 kg/Hp, and the torque-to-weight ratio is 6.3 kg/Nm. Performance figures include a 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) acceleration time of 12 seconds and a maximum speed of 185 km/h (114.95 mph). The 0-60 mph acceleration is calculated at 11.4 seconds. Fuel economy is a strong point, with combined cycle consumption rated at 5.5 l/100 km (42.8 US mpg, 51.4 UK mpg, 18.2 km/l). Urban fuel consumption is 7.2 l/100 km (32.7 US mpg), while extra-urban consumption is a very efficient 4.6 l/100 km (51.1 US mpg).
Design & Features
The Mitsubishi Space Star DG0 is a five-door minivan with a practical and functional 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 versatility. The rear seats can be folded down or even removed completely, creating a large cargo area. Trunk space ranges from a minimum of 370 liters (13.07 cu. ft.) to a maximum of 1370 liters (48.38 cu. ft.) with the rear seats folded. Safety features for the era included ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) as standard equipment. The vehicle features a hydraulic power steering system and utilizes a front wishbone and rear spring strut suspension setup for a comfortable ride. The standard tire size is 185/65 R14. The Space Star’s design prioritized practicality and functionality over outright styling, reflecting its target market of families and those seeking a versatile vehicle.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mitsubishi |
| Model | Space Star |
| Generation | Space Star (DG0) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.9 DI-D (102 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2001 |
| End of production | 2004 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Minivan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 7.2 l/100 km (32.7 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 4.6 l/100 km (51.1 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 5.5 l/100 km (42.8 US mpg) |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 12 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 12 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 11.4 sec |
| Maximum speed | 185 km/h (114.95 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 13.2 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.3 kg/Nm |
| Power | 102 Hp @ 4000 rpm |
| Torque | 215 Nm @ 1700 rpm (158.58 lb.-ft. @ 1700 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | F9Q1 |
| 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 | 18.3:1 |
| 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) |
| Coolant capacity | 6.3 l (6.66 US qt | 5.54 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1350 kg (2976.24 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1730 kg (3814 lbs.) |
| Max load | 380 kg (837.76 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 Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 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 versatility for European buyers. Its compact size and efficient diesel engine made it a popular choice for families and individuals seeking a functional and economical vehicle.
