Mitsubishi Minicab import guide
Kei truck & van · 660cc · 2WD / 4WD
The Mitsubishi Minicab is a tough, no-nonsense kei truck and van line with a long production history and solid 4WD options. It's a great-value alternative to the better-known kei trucks with the same dependable utility.
- 660cc engine
- 4WD available
- Truck & van bodies
At a glance
Mitsubishi Minicab quick facts
- Type
- Kei truck / kei van
- Engine
- 660cc inline-3 (3G83)
- Drivetrain
- Rear-wheel drive or selectable 4WD
- Generations
- U19/U42 (1991–98), U61/U62 (1999–2014)
- Transmission
- 5-speed manual or automatic
- Import eligibility
- 25+ year examples are FMVSS-exempt
Overview
Why import a Mitsubishi Minicab
The Minicab has been a fixture of Japan's working fleets for decades. It offers the same core kei-truck value — small footprint, low costs, useful payload — with Mitsubishi's reputation for rugged simplicity.
Selectable 4WD makes the Minicab capable on unpaved terrain, and the van variants (including the Bravo) are practical enclosed haulers. Because it's slightly less famous than the Carry or Hijet, the Minicab can be excellent value at auction.
- Durable, simple 3G83 engine
- Selectable 4WD with optional diff lock
- Truck, van, and Bravo body styles
- Often strong value versus better-known rivals
Generations
Minicab generations & variants
The U19/U42 trucks of the 1990s are fully import-eligible. The U61/U62 generation (1999–2014) is the modern era becoming eligible year by year, with a roomier cab and improved refinement.
- U19T / U42T — 1990s trucks, fully eligible
- U61T / U62T — 1999+ generation, modern cab
- Minicab Van / Bravo — enclosed van variants
- 4WD trims with low range on select models
Buyer notes
What to look for at auction
- Frame and bed-floor rust on working trucks
- 4WD and diff-lock function where fitted
- Timing belt service history on 3G83 engines
- Clutch and gearbox health on manuals
- Auction grade and odometer verification
Importing
Importing a Minicab to the U.S.
Under the U.S. 25-year rule, a vehicle is exempt from FMVSS once it is at least 25 years old. Eligibility is rolling — each model year becomes importable on the anniversary of its build date.
After customs clearance, on-road use is governed by state law. Many states title kei trucks for the street; others restrict them. Verify your state's rules before purchasing.
Keep exploring
Related import guides
Suzuki Carry
Kei truckJapan's best-selling kei truck — huge supply, strong parts support, and dependable 4WD options.
Daihatsu Hijet
Kei truckEconomical kei truck famous for its extended 'Jumbo' cab and excellent fuel economy.
Honda Acty
Kei truckHonda's rear/mid-engine kei truck and van — reliable, affordable, and one of the most popular U.S. imports.
Subaru Sambar
Kei truckSubaru's rear-engine kei truck — enthusiast favorite with available supercharger and true 4WD heritage.
FAQ
Mitsubishi Minicab import — common questions
- Is the Mitsubishi Minicab a good kei truck?
- Yes. It delivers the same core kei-truck value as its rivals with Mitsubishi's rugged-simplicity reputation, and it's often cheaper at auction because it's less famous than the Carry or Hijet.
- Does the Mitsubishi Minicab come in 4WD?
- Yes, selectable 4WD is widely available, with diff-lock options on some trims. Confirm the drivetrain on the auction sheet before bidding.
- What's the Minicab Bravo?
- The Bravo is a van-bodied version of the Minicab, offering enclosed cargo space and passenger seating on the same dependable kei platform.
- Is a Mitsubishi Minicab street-legal in the U.S.?
- Minicab trucks 25+ years old import legally under the FMVSS age exemption. Road registration depends on your state — see our state import guides.
- How much does it cost to import a Mitsubishi Minicab?
- Landed cost is the auction price plus inland transport, ocean freight, duty, and our fee. As a value pick, the Minicab is often among the more affordable kei imports. Request a quote for a specific truck.
Import eligibility and state registration rules change over time and vary by vehicle. Confirm current requirements before purchasing. This page is informational only and not legal advice.
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