Mitsubishi Debonair (3rd generation)
The high-tech Japanese flagship that pioneered distance-warning LIDAR.
- Power
- 260 bhp
- Top speed
- 134 mph
- Est. value
- $5k–$9k
About the Mitsubishi Debonair
The third-generation Mitsubishi Debonair was a significant departure from its predecessors, developed in partnership with Hyundai to serve as a flagship luxury sedan for the Japanese market. It was powered by the 6G74 3.5-litre V6, a sophisticated DOHC engine that also found a home in the Pajero and GTO. This generation was a technological tour de force, introducing the world's first production distance-warning system using LIDAR, alongside four-wheel steering and electronically controlled suspension. Despite its advanced features and 'Executive' status, it struggled to compete with the Toyota Crown and Nissan Cedric, remaining a rare sight outside of Mitsubishi Group executive fleets.
Mitsubishi Debonair specs
The Mitsubishi Debonair produces 260 bhp (194 kW) and 324 Nm (239 lb-ft) of torque. It has a top speed of 134 mph (215 km/h).
| Make | Mitsubishi |
|---|---|
| Model | Debonair |
| Generation | Third Generation (3rd generation) |
| Trim | 3.5 |
| Years | 1992–1999 |
| Type | Luxury |
| Body style | Sedan |
| Country | Japan |
| Engine | 3.5-litre DOHC 24-valve V6 |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 3,496 cc (3.5 litres) |
| Induction | Naturally aspirated |
| Power | 260 bhp (194 kW) at 6,000 rpm |
| Torque | 324 Nm (239 lb-ft) |
| Redline | 6,500 rpm |
| Top speed | 134 mph (215 km/h) |
| Transmission | 4-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain | Front-wheel drive |
| Weight | 1,780 kg (3,924 lb) |
| Power-to-weight | 146 bhp per tonne |
Typical figures for the standard car; options, markets and model years vary. Where our specs come from
How much is a Mitsubishi Debonair worth?
A typical Mitsubishi Debonair is estimated to be worth $4,500 – $9,000 (about £3,400 – £6,700).
Values are directional estimates for a typical example, not appraisals. Condition, mileage, history and specification all change what a real car is worth. Pound figures use the exchange rate of 3 November 2026. How values are estimated
Mitsubishi Debonair rarity in CarSpot
The Mitsubishi Debonair is a Common card in CarSpot, with a rarity score of 13 out of 100. Everyday cars you can spot on almost any street. A Common card is worth 10 XP.
Each model's tier starts from a 0–100 score based on its value plus its power or production numbers. Once enough players have spotted a model, how often it is spotted can move it up or down one tier. How CarSpot rarity works
Rarity is a collectible game mechanic, not an assessment of real-world scarcity or value.
Mitsubishi Debonair fun facts
- The 1992 Debonair featured the world's first production distance-warning system, a precursor to modern adaptive cruise control that used LIDAR to monitor traffic.
- While the Debonair was a niche seller in Japan, its twin, the Hyundai Grandeur, became a massive success and a symbol of status in South Korea.
- The car's INVECS automatic transmission used fuzzy logic to adapt its shift patterns to the driver's style and road conditions.
