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Mitsubishi eK

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Mitsubishi eK
Mitsubishi eK Wagon
Overview
Manufacturer
Also called
  • Nissan Otti (2005–2013)
  • Nissan Dayz (2013–present)
ProductionOctober 2001 – present
AssemblyJapan: Kurashiki, Okayama (Mizushima plant)
Body and chassis
ClassKei car
Body style5-door hatchback
Layout
Related
Chronology
Predecessor

The Mitsubishi eK (Japanese: 三菱・イーケイ, Hepburn: Mitsubishi Ē Kei) is a kei car series from Mitsubishi Motors and Nissan, based on the long-running Minica, and first introduced on 11 October 2001. The "eK" name is an abbreviation for "excellent keijidōsha" (or "excellent minicar") and is meant to be pronounced "ee kay", a pun which sounds like the Japanese いい軽, meaning "good kei [car]".[1]

Since 8 June 2005, Nissan received 36,000 eK Wagons annually from Mitsubishi, to be sold within the domestic market as the Nissan Otti.[2] The Otti was replaced by the Nissan Dayz on 6 June 2013, although the Otti was still sold alongside the Dayz until being discontinued on 28 June 2013. A tall-height minivan version with rear sliding doors called the eK Space appeared in 2014. It, too has a Nissan version, called the Nissan Dayz Roox from 2014 to 2020 and as the Nissan Roox from 2020.

Mitsubishi eK logo (2013–2020)

First generation (2001)

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First generation
Mitsubishi eK Wagon (pre-facelift)
Overview
Model code
  • H81
  • H91
  • NA0 (Otti)
Also calledNissan Otti (2005–2006)
ProductionOctober 2001 – September 2006
Powertrain
Engine
Transmission
Dimensions
Wheelbase2,340 mm (92.1 in)
Length3,395 mm (133.7 in)
Width1,475 mm (58.1 in)
Height1,550–1,600 mm (61.0–63.0 in)
Curb weight790–910 kg (1,742–2,006 lb)

In its first generation, it was available either as an eK Wagon (introduced on 11 October 2001),[3] eK Sport (introduced on 2 September 2002),[4] eK Classy (introduced on 26 May 2003) or eK Active (introduced on 25 May 2004).

The eK Wagon was released in a simplified lineup, in only a single model (M) with an available package (M+X) including alloy wheels and some other cosmetics. It was only available with the 3G83, naturally aspirated three-cylinder engine with 50 PS (37 kW); other models later added the option of a turbocharged version with 64 PS (47 kW). The standard transmission was a three-speed automatic with a column shift, later a four-speed version was added, while some models could also be fitted with a five-speed manual with a floor-mounted shifter. Most models could be had with either front- or four-wheel drive.

Immediately upon its release it was the recipient of the Good Design Award by the Japanese Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry in 2001.[5] While the initial sales target was 10,000 units per month, it sold 13,000 in its first four days, and 20,000 by the end of October 2001.[6][7] It was Mitsubishi's highest volume model in the Japanese domestic market,[8] and total sales to 2005 are approximately 480,000.[9] In Japan, it was sold at a specific retail chain called Car Plaza.

The crossover eK Active model was introduced in 25 May 2004, shortly before the model was facelifted.[10] Fitted with 14-inch wheels, ground clearance was increased by 10 mm (0.4 in) while the front seats sat 45 mm (1.8 in) higher.[11] The addition of body cladding in dark grey imparted an off-road look to the model; the front clip was also different, featuring the new corporate face conceived by Olivier Boulay. The eK Active was available with either engine (the V model being naturally aspirated, VT the turbocharged model) but only with the four-speed automatic; both models also had optional four-wheel drive.

The eK Wagon G model, with more equipment and the four-speed automatic, was added in May 2003, originally only as the "M20G Thanks Edition", celebrating 200,000 sales. In August 2003 the G became a standard model, while the X-package was discontinued.[12] A facelifted eK Wagon was introduced on 20 December 2004; the eK Active was not changed apart from receiving redesigned hubcaps. On 20 December 2005, the eK Classy was discontinued

Nissan Otti

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After Nissan reached an agreement with Mitsubishi to expand its OEM mini car line-up on 16 January 2005, Nissan released the Otti on 17 June of the same year.[13][14] The car is exclusive to Nissan Red Stage and Nissan Blue Stage dealers.[14]

Aside from the design of the front grille, body colors, there are no major differences from the OEM versions, the eK Wagon and eK Sport.

Mitsubishi eK
Nissan Otti

Second generation (2006)

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Second generation
Mitsubishi eK Wagon (pre-facelift)
Overview
Model code
  • H82
  • H92
  • NA1
Also calledNissan Otti
Production
  • September 2006 – February 2013 (eK series)
  • October 2006 – June 2013 (Otti)
Body and chassis
RelatedMitsubishi Toppo (H82A)
Powertrain
Engine658 cc 3G83 I3 (petrol)
Transmission
  • 5-speed manual
  • 3/4-speed automatic
Dimensions
Wheelbase2,340 mm (92.1 in)
Length3,395 mm (133.7 in)
Width1,475 mm (58.1 in)
Height1,550–1,570 mm (61.0–61.8 in)
Curb weight820–900 kg (1,808–1,984 lb)

The second generation eK Wagon and eK Sport were released on 13 September 2006.[9] The eK Active was discontinued at the time of the second generation's launch. A facelifted eK Wagon and eK Sport were released on 21 August 2008. The car sported a sliding door on the passenger side, which was unusual for its class and a layout which was abandoned for the third generation.

A rebodied version of this generation became the fourth generation Toppo as well, using some body panels of the third generation Toppo. For the next generation, this became the Mitsubishi eK Space.

Mitsubishi eK
Nissan Otti

Third generation (2013)

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Third generation
Overview
Model code
  • B11
  • B21
  • AA0
Also calledNissan Dayz
ProductionJune 2013 – March 2019
Body and chassis
RelatedMitsubishi eK Space (first generation)
Powertrain
Engine
TransmissionCVT
Dimensions
Wheelbase2,430 mm (95.7 in)
Length3,395 mm (133.7 in)
Width1,475 mm (58.1 in)
Height1,620 mm (63.8 in)
Curb weight820–900 kg (1,808–1,984 lb)

The third generation eK Wagon and its new sportier variant, called the eK Custom, were released on June 2013. It was the first major design update since when the eK began sales. This time, Nissan's derivative was sold as the Nissan Dayz, while the eK Custom was sold as the Nissan Dayz Highway Star.

The eK received a facelift in October 2015.[15]

The Active Gear grade was released in December 2017. [16] This is the fourth model in the Active Gear series, following the Delica, Outlander, and RVR, is based on the turbo charged "T Safety Package." The exterior features an orange accent line on the front grille, orange -coloured door mirrors, and black 15-inch alloy wheels.

Fuel economy scandal

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In April 2016, Mitsubishi Motors announced that it had discovered improper fuel-economy testing procedures affecting several kei car models, including the Mitsubishi eK, eK Space, and the OEM-supplied Nissan Dayz and Dayz Roox. The company admitted that employees had manipulated fuel-consumption data by using testing methods that did not comply with Japanese regulations. Approximately 625,000 vehicles were affected, including cars supplied to Nissan. The disclosure caused Mitsubishi Motors’ share price to fall sharply and led to widespread criticism of the company’s corporate governance and quality-control practices.[17]

Following an investigation by the Japanese government, Mitsubishi acknowledged that improper testing practices had been used for decades on some models. Company president Tetsuro Aikawa resigned in June 2016, accepting responsibility for the scandal.[18]

Despite the controversy, production of the eK series continued under the joint venture NMKV, with later generations redesigned to meet updated fuel-efficiency and safety standards. Sales restarted in July of the same year.

Mitsubishi eK
Nissan Dayz

Fourth generation (2019)

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Fourth generation
Overview
Model code
  • B33
  • B34
  • B35
  • B36
  • B37
  • B38
  • B40
  • B5A
Also calledNissan Dayz
ProductionMarch 2019 – present
Body and chassis
Related
Powertrain
Engine
  • 659 cc BR06D I3 (petrol)
  • 659 cc BR06DET I3-T (petrol)
Electric motor
  • SM21 (MHEV; eK X/Dayz Highway Star)
  • MM48 (eK X EV)
Power output
  • 38–47 kW (52–64 PS) (ICE models)
  • 47 kW (64 PS) (eK X EV)
TransmissionCVT
Battery20 kWh lithium-ion (eK X EV)
Electric range180 km (110 mi) (WLTC, eK X EV)
Dimensions
Wheelbase2,495 mm (98.2 in)
Length3,395 mm (133.7 in)
Width1,475 mm (58.1 in)
Height1,640–1,660 mm (64.6–65.4 in)
Curb weight
  • 830–940 kg (1,830–2,072 lb) (ICE models)
  • 1,070–1,080 kg (2,359–2,381 lb) (eK X EV)
Chronology
Predecessor

The fourth generation eK Wagon was unveiled on 14 March 2019, and released on 28 March 2019.[19] Both eK and badged-engineered Dayz models are powered by BR06 I3 from most of Mitsubishi/Nissan's kei car range and produces 52 PS (38 kW; 51 bhp) and BR06 turbo produces 64 PS (47 kW), and maximun torque at 58 N⋅m (43 lb⋅ft). Booth models are only available in CVT transmission.

eK X

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A crossover SUV-styled variant, called the Mitsubishi eK X (Japanese: 三菱・eKクロス, Hepburn: Mitsubishi Ē Kei Kurosu) were unveiled on 14 March 2019, and released on 28 March 2019. The eK X using the "Dynamic Shield" design language.[20] It was offered in M, G, T turbo grades. Booth eK Wagon and eK X is the first Mitsubishi Motors vehicle to adopt the highway lane-keeping assist technology; MI-PILOT which is a rebadged version from Nissan's ProPILOT.

The battery electric version of the eK X called the eK X EV was introduced on 20 May 2022, along with its Nissan-badged equivalent called the Nissan Sakura, which received different exterior and interior styling compared to the Dayz.[21][22][23]

A facelifted eK X EV was unveiled on 18 June 2026. The changes include a redesigned front fascia, body-coloured grille, and the front grille is now equipped with LED lights.[24]

Nissan Dayz (B40)

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The second-generation Dayz was launched in 19 March 2019 along with eK Wagon.[25] It was offered in standard S, and X grades, while the Highway Star was offered in X and G grades. A retro-styled Bolero which was produced by Autech also available.[25] This is Nissan's first kei car with ProPILOT lane-keeping assist technology.[26]

The two-model lineup, the regular model and the higher Highway Star models was retained from the first generation. Feature a V-Motion front grille. The "Highway Star" features LED headlights, and the larger V-Motion with 3D mesh grille.[26]

A facelift occurred in September 2023. The regular model received a redesigned front grill, while the Highway Star grade received a completely redesign front fascia. Two-tone colour option were available in booth regular and Highway Star models.[27]

Annual production and sales

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Production figures include OEM units manufactured on behalf of Nissan, while sales figures only include Mitsubishi-badged models.

Year Production Sales
2001 97,390 86,465
2002 115,918 122,857
2003 119,652 118,567
2004 70,826 71,062
2005 118,480 73,277
2006 122,294 67,052
2007 77,875 56,686
2008 63,943 39,972

(sources: Facts & Figures 2005, Facts & Figures 2009, Mitsubishi Motors website)

Sales

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Year Japan[28][29]
Nissan Dayz Mitsubishi eK X EV
2013 78,846
2014 88,186
2015 71,558
2016 51,329
2017 63,969
2018 63,883
2019 89,371[a]
2020 71,934
2021 53,773
2022 43,864 4,175
2023 38,687 7,021
2024 50,432 2,504
  1. ↑ 18,663 of the third generation (AA0) and
    70,708 of the fourth generation (B5A).

References

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  1. ↑ "Mitsubishi Motors proudly introduces the next standard in mini-cars, the semi-tall "eK-WAGON"" (Press release). Mitsubishi Motors Corporation. October 11, 2001. Archived from the original on 2008-07-20.
  2. ↑ "Nissan To Get New eK WAGON Supply from Mitsubishi" Archived 2006-08-18 at the Wayback Machine, Mitsubishi Motors press release, 31 October 2001
  3. ↑ "三菱eKワゴン 2WD M Xパッケージ（3AT）" [Mitsubishi eK Wagon 2WD M X Package (3AT)]. Web CG. 2001-10-17.
  4. ↑ "eKワゴンの半分" [Half of the eK Wagon] (Press release). Web CG. 2002-10-11.
  5. ↑ "Mitsubishi Motors has Received the Good Design Award" Archived 2006-10-29 at the Wayback Machine, Mitsubishi Motors press release, October 11, 2001
  6. ↑ "Brand-new eK-WAGON order top 13,000 in first 4 days after launch Way over 10,000 monthly target" Archived 2006-10-29 at the Wayback Machine, Mitsubishi Motors press release, October 16, 2001
  7. ↑ "eK-WAGON orders top 20,000" Archived 2006-10-29 at the Wayback Machine, Mitsubishi Motors press release, August 8, 2006
  8. ↑ "First drives - Mitsubishi eK Sport" Archived 2007-10-24 at the Wayback Machine, Auto Express
  9. 1 2 "Mitsubishi Motors launches new eK Wagon & eK Sport" Archived 2007-01-28 at the Wayback Machine, Mitsubishi Motors press release, 13 September 2006
  10. ↑ "這い上がるために" [To climb back up]. Web CG. 2004-06-27.
  11. ↑ "三菱 eKアクティブ: 2004年5月～2006年8月生産モデル" [Mitsubishi eK Active: Model produced from May 2004 to August 2006]. CarSensor (in Japanese). Recruit Co., Ltd.
  12. ↑ "ｅＫワゴン（三菱）のモデル・グレード別カタログ情報" [Catalog information for the Mitsubishi eK Wagon by model and grade]. Goo-net (in Japanese). Proto Corporation. Archived from the original on 2023-12-03.
  13. ↑ "日産自動車と三菱自動車、軽自動車のＯＥＭ供給拡大について基本合意" [Nissan Motor and Mitsubishi Motors have reached a basic agreement to expand OEM supply of minicars]. Nissan News. 2005-01-01. Retrieved 2026-03-03.
  14. 1 2 "新型軽自動車「OTTI（オッティ）」を発売 -- あわせて福祉車両も発売 --" [New minicar "OTTI" launched -- Welfare vehicle also launched --] (Press release). Nissan News. 2005-06-07. Retrieved 2025-12-17.
  15. ↑ "三菱自動車、「eKワゴン」「eKカスタム」の大幅改良で軽初の「オートマチックハイビーム」搭載" [Mitsubishi Motors significantly improves the "eK Wagon" and "eK Custom," adding the first "automatic high beam" feature to a kei car]. Car Watch. 2015-10-22. Retrieved 2026-06-23.
  16. ↑ "軽乗用車『eKカスタム』の特別仕様車「ACTIVE GEAR」を発売" (Press release). 三菱自動車工業株式会社. 2017-12-21. Retrieved 2017-12-28.
  17. ↑ "燃費、最大16%悪化 国交省の計測" [Fuel efficiency worsens by up to 16%, according to measurements by the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism]. Mainichi Shimbun. 2016-06-21. Retrieved 2016-06-23.
  18. ↑ "Mitsubishi Motors President Tetsuro Aikawa resigns". Car Watch. 2016-06-21. Retrieved 2026-06-23.
  19. ↑ "新型軽自動車『eKワゴン』『eKクロス』の予約注文を受付開始" (Press release) (in Japanese). 2019-03-14. Retrieved 2026-09-07.
  20. ↑ "【三菱・eKクロス登場】スーパー個性のニューフェイスが誕生。軽自動車にもダイナミックシールドを採用" [Mitsubishi eK Cross Introduced – A super-individualistic new face is born. Dynamic Shield adopted even for kei cars] (in Japanese). 28 March 2019.
  21. ↑ "News Release | Mitsubishi Motors Corporation".
  22. ↑ "【三菱 eKクロスEV】実質200万円以下で買えるEV、航続180kmで新市場を創出". 20 May 2022.
  23. ↑ "【日産 サクラ】軽自動車の常識を変える!?「軽Ev」は日本に電動"花"を咲かせるか". 20 May 2022.
  24. ↑ "三菱自動車、軽乗用EV『eKクロス EV』を一部改良" [Mitsubishi Motors partially updates its mini passenger EV, the 'eK Cross EV']. 18 June 2026.
  25. 1 2 "日産自動車、三菱自動車、NMKVが新型軽自動車のオフライン式を実施" (Press release) (in Japanese). Nissan. 2019-03-14. Retrieved 2019-03-15.
  26. 1 2 "写真で見る 日産「デイズ」「デイズ ハイウェイスター」（2019年フルモデルチェンジ）" (Press release) (in Japanese). Car Watch Impress. 2019-03-28. Retrieved 2026-09-07.
  27. ↑ "日産、軽自動車「デイズ」をマイナーチェンジして年内に発売" (in Japanese). Car Watch Impress. 2023-09-29. Retrieved 2026-09-07.
  28. ↑ "日産 デイズ 新車販売台数の推移/売れ行き(生産台数)と生産状況は？生産工場も - 株式会社アイディーインフォメーション" [Nissan Days New car sales trends/sales (production volume) and production status? production factory too]. id-information.co.jp (in Japanese). Retrieved 2024-04-20.
  29. ↑ "三菱 eKクロス EV 新車販売台数推移/売れ行き(生産台数)と生産状況は？生産工場も - 株式会社アイディーインフォメーション" [Mitsubishi eK Cross EV new car sales trends/sales (production volume) and production status? production factory too]. id-information.co.jp (in Japanese). Retrieved 2024-04-20.
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