The Mitsubishi Mirage is a subcompact car that has been in production since 1978, though the current generation has been available since 2012. Known for its small size, affordability, and fuel efficiency, the Mirage is marketed primarily as an economical choice for budget-conscious drivers. It’s available as a hatchback or sedan and has gained popularity for those who prioritize low running costs and a compact footprint.
Here’s a breakdown of key details about the Mitsubishi Mirage:
1. History and Overview:
- Introduction: The first Mitsubishi Mirage was introduced in 1978 in Japan, and over the years, it has gone through multiple generations and updates. Initially, it was offered in various body styles, including sedans and hatchbacks.
- Current Generation (2012-Present): The latest version of the Mirage, which has been available in the U.S. since 2014, is a streamlined subcompact car that focuses on delivering fuel efficiency, practicality, and a low price point. It is currently one of the most affordable new cars on the market.
2. Key Features and Specifications:
- Engine: The Mirage is equipped with a 1.2-liter 3-cylinder engine that produces around 78 horsepower. While this might seem modest, it is designed for fuel efficiency rather than performance.
- Transmission: It is offered with either a 5-speed manual transmission or a CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission), depending on the trim.
- Fuel Efficiency: One of the Mirage’s standout features is its fuel efficiency. It achieves impressive MPG ratings, with estimates around 36-39 MPG city and 43-46 MPG highway, making it one of the most fuel-efficient non-h
The Mitsubishi Mirage is a compact, fuel-efficient subcompact car produced by the Japanese automaker Mitsubishi Motors. It has been in production since 1978, although the version that is widely known today was introduced in 2012 as part of the brand’s effort to offer an affordable, economical vehicle for urban environments. Here’s a closer look at the car:
Key Features:
- Fuel Efficiency: The Mirage is known for its impressive fuel economy, which makes it a popular choice for drivers looking to minimize their fuel costs. Depending on the model year and variant, it can achieve up to 40 mpg (miles per gallon) combined.
- Compact Size: The car is designed to be compact and easy to maneuver, which is ideal for urban settings or tight parking situations. Its small footprint also contributes to its affordability.
- Affordability: One of the Mirage’s key selling points is its relatively low starting price. It’s often marketed as a budget-friendly option in the subcompact car segment.
- Interior and Technology: While the Mirage is a budget car, it typically offers modern features like touchscreen infotainment systems, Bluetooth connectivity, and Apple CarPlay or Android Auto compatibility in recent models. The interior is simple but functional, with a focus on practicality.
- Engine and Performance: The Mirage typically comes with a small, fuel-efficient engine, often a 1.2-liter 3-cylinder engine that balances adequate power with fuel savings. It’s available with both manual and automatic transmissions, depending on the model.
- Safety Features: Recent models of the Mirage have incorporated a range of safety features such as a rearview camera, forward-collision warning, and automatic emergency braking, though it has not always been known for having the most robust safety features in its class.
- Design: The Mirage has a simple, unpretentious exterior design. It’s often considered to have a practical, economy-focused appearance rather than a sporty or luxurious one.
Variants:
- Mitsubishi Mirage Hatchback: The most popular body style, with a compact design and more cargo space.
- Mitsubishi Mirage G4: This is the sedan variant of the Mirage, offering more rear-seat space and a larger trunk but still maintaining the compact car advantages.
Market:
The Mirage appeals to budget-conscious buyers, including young drivers, city dwellers, and those looking for a no-frills, reliable car that can efficiently navigate urban environments. It competes with other small cars like the Chevrolet Spark, Kia Rio, and Hyundai Accent.
Overall, the Mitsubishi Mirage is a solid option for someone seeking an affordable, fuel-efficient, and compact car. However, it may not have the performance or luxury features found in more expensive vehicles.
As of 2024, the price of a Mitsubishi Mirage in the United States typically ranges between $17,000 to $19,000, depending on the trim level and any additional options. Here’s a breakdown of the typical pricing:
2024 Mitsubishi Mirage Pricing:
- Mitsubishi Mirage ES (base model): Around $17,000
- Mitsubishi Mirage LE: Around $18,000
- Mitsubishi Mirage G4 (sedan variant): Starting around $17,500
- Mitsubishi Mirage SE: Around $19,000
Optional Packages and Add-ons:
- Additional features, packages, and dealer-installed options can increase the final price. Higher trims may include features like a touchscreen infotainment system, advanced safety features, or sportier accents, which will push the price higher.
Keep in mind that prices can vary depending on the dealership, location, and any current promotions or incentives. Additionally, taxes, registration fees, and delivery charges are typically added to the final cost.
The Mitsubishi Mirage is currently available in the United States as a compact, affordable, and fuel-efficient subcompact car. It’s marketed primarily as an economical choice for budget-conscious drivers looking for a practical vehicle that is ideal for city driving.
Key Aspects of the Mitsubishi Mirage in the USA:
- Variants:
- Mitsubishi Mirage Hatchback: This is the most common body style, offering a compact design and decent cargo space for its size.
- Mitsubishi Mirage G4 Sedan: The sedan variant of the Mirage, which offers a slightly larger trunk and more rear-seat space while maintaining the compact, fuel-efficient profile of the hatchback.
- Trim Levels (2024):
- ES: The base model that offers essential features and low starting pricing. It includes a 7-inch touchscreen, Bluetooth, and basic safety features like a rearview camera.
- LE: The next step up, which adds more convenience features like a larger display screen, upgraded interior accents, and sometimes additional tech options.
- SE: The higher trim, which comes with additional features like a more advanced infotainment system, upgraded safety features, and enhanced comfort.
- GT (if available): For a sportier appearance, with a sportier body kit and additional features, though it may not always be offered in all markets.
- Price Range: The 2024 Mitsubishi Mirage typically starts at around $17,000 for the base ES Hatchback and can go up to $19,000 for the higher trims like the SE Hatchback. The Mirage G4 sedan starts around $17,500.
- Engine and Performance:
- 1.2-liter 3-cylinder engine: This small engine provides good fuel efficiency but isn’t particularly powerful, making the Mirage more of a city commuter than a performance-oriented vehicle.
- Fuel Economy: The Mirage is one of the most fuel-efficient cars in its class, with EPA ratings of up to 36 mpg city and 43 mpg highway for the manual transmission, or slightly less with the automatic transmission.
- Interior and Features:
- Infotainment: The Mirage comes with standard features like a 7-inch touchscreen, Bluetooth, and smartphone integration. Higher trims may offer Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a larger display.
- Cargo Space: Despite its compact size, the Mirage offers a decent amount of cargo space, especially in the hatchback version.
- Safety: Modern Mirage models come with a range of standard and optional safety features, including:
- Forward Collision Mitigation
- Lane Departure Warning
- Automatic Emergency Braking (on some trims)
- Warranty: Mitsubishi offers one of the best warranties in the industry, which includes:
- 5-year/60,000-mile bumper-to-bumper warranty
- 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty
Availability:
The Mitsubishi Mirage is available at Mitsubishi dealerships across the USA. However, it’s worth noting that the Mirage is not as widely available or as heavily promoted in the US as some other subcompact models, as Mitsubishi’s presence in the American market has been more limited compared to brands like Toyota or Honda.
Conclusion:
If you’re looking for an ultra-affordable, fuel-efficient car for city driving, the Mitsubishi Mirage is a solid choice. It’s practical, inexpensive, and comes with a great warranty, but it’s not known for performance or luxury. It’s ideal for people who prioritize budget, efficiency, and practicality over power and features.
Mitsubishi Motors is a Japanese automaker that has been producing vehicles since 1917. Known for its diverse range of cars, trucks, and SUVs, Mitsubishi is part of the Mitsubishi Group, one of Japan’s largest industrial conglomerates. While Mitsubishi once had a more prominent presence in the global automotive market, it is now primarily known for offering affordable, reliable, and efficient vehicles.
Here’s an overview of Mitsubishi Motors:
Table of Contents
1. Global Presence:
- Mitsubishi Motors has manufacturing plants and sales networks in several countries, with a significant presence in Asia, North America, and Europe.
- In recent years, the brand has become more focused on specific markets like Japan, Southeast Asia, and certain areas of Europe and North America.
2. Popular Models:
Mitsubishi produces a variety of vehicles, from subcompact cars to large SUVs and electric vehicles. Some of the most notable models include:
- Mitsubishi Outlander: A popular midsize SUV, known for its spacious interior, comfortable ride, and hybrid option.
- Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross: A compact crossover offering a sporty design and good performance.
- Mitsubishi Mirage: A compact, fuel-efficient, and affordable subcompact car, popular in markets like the U.S. and Asia.
- Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV (Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle): A hybrid version of the Outlander, combining the efficiency of an electric motor with the range of a gasoline engine.
- Mitsubishi Triton (also known as the L200 in some markets): A popular midsize pickup truck, widely used in Southeast Asia and other markets.
3. Technological Innovations:
Mitsubishi has contributed to innovations in the automotive industry, particularly in the areas of electric vehicles (EVs) and hybrid technology:
- Mitsubishi i-MiEV: One of the first mass-market all-electric vehicles introduced in 2009, the i-MiEV is a small city car.
- Outlander PHEV: Mitsubishi’s most successful plug-in hybrid model, offering an eco-friendly alternative in the SUV category.
4. Design Philosophy:
Mitsubishi’s design language focuses on practical functionality and durability, with models designed for reliability and value. In recent years, the company has updated its vehicles to feature more modern aesthetics while maintaining a focus on toughness and utility, especially in its SUVs and trucks.
5. Partnerships and Alliances:
Mitsubishi is part of the Renault-Nissan-Mitsubishi Alliance, a strategic partnership that allows the companies to share technology and resources. This alliance helps Mitsubishi to maintain competitiveness in a challenging global market.
6. Sustainability and Future Plans:
Mitsubishi Motors has placed an increasing focus on electric vehicles and sustainable transportation. The company has committed to developing more energy-efficient vehicles, expanding its hybrid lineup, and reducing carbon emissions from its manufacturing processes.
7. Mitsubishi in the United States:
Mitsubishi’s presence in the U.S. has been somewhat limited in recent years compared to other global automakers. While the brand once offered a broad range of vehicles, today, it focuses on a smaller lineup, including the Outlander, Outlander Sport, and Mirage. Despite its relatively small market share, Mitsubishi remains popular for those seeking affordable, reliable vehicles.
8. Mitsubishi Motors Warranty:
Mitsubishi is known for offering one of the best warranties in the automotive industry, which includes:
- 5-year/60,000-mile bumper-to-bumper warranty
- 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty
- 7-year/100,000-mile anti-corrosion warranty
This extensive warranty helps provide peace of mind to buyers and is a major selling point in markets like the U.S.
Conclusion:
Mitsubishi Motors offers a variety of vehicles that focus on value, reliability, and efficiency. While the company’s presence has decreased somewhat in some global markets, it remains an important player in others, especially in the crossover and SUV segments. Its ongoing investments in electric and hybrid vehicles show that Mitsubishi is preparing for a future in green technology and sustainable mobility. Whether you’re looking for an affordable compact car, a reliable SUV, or an eco-friendly hybrid, Mitsubishi provides several solid options for consumers.
Mitsubishi Motors in the UK has a more limited presence compared to other global markets, but the brand still offers a selection of vehicles, primarily in the SUV and electric vehicle (EV) segments. Mitsubishi has focused on delivering reliable, affordable cars, particularly in the SUV market, where it remains competitive.
Mitsubishi’s Presence in the UK:
- Current Lineup: Mitsubishi’s UK lineup consists mainly of SUVs and plug-in hybrid vehicles (PHEVs). Some of the key models available in the UK include:
- Mitsubishi Outlander:
- The Outlander is Mitsubishi’s flagship SUV, available in both petrol and PHEV (Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle) versions. The Outlander PHEV has been particularly popular in the UK due to its fuel efficiency and ability to run on electric power for short trips, making it an excellent option for urban and rural driving. It has a large interior and advanced safety features.
- Mitsubishi ASX:
- The ASX is a smaller SUV, competing in the compact crossover segment. It’s available with various petrol and diesel engine options and provides a practical alternative to larger SUVs. It’s a great option for those seeking a more affordable, smaller SUV.
- Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross:
- The Eclipse Cross is a compact SUV with a sportier design, combining practicality with modern features like touchscreen infotainment systems and advanced driver assistance. It offers both petrol and hybrid powertrains.
- Mitsubishi L200:
- The L200 is a midsize pickup truck that competes in the UK’s utility vehicle market. It’s a tough, workhorse vehicle often used in commercial and off-road applications, popular for those needing a vehicle that can handle rugged conditions and heavy loads.
- Mitsubishi Outlander:
- Electric and Hybrid Focus: Mitsubishi has been a pioneer in the UK when it comes to plug-in hybrid and electric vehicles. The Outlander PHEV has been one of the most successful PHEVs in the UK market, appealing to drivers who want an eco-friendly vehicle that still offers the space and versatility of an SUV.
- Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV: This model is one of the most well-known PHEVs in the UK, offering an electric-only driving range and hybrid capabilities for longer trips. It’s popular with UK drivers due to its lower running costs and reduced emissions compared to traditional petrol or diesel vehicles.
- Mitsubishi i-MiEV: Mitsubishi was one of the early movers in the electric vehicle market with the i-MiEV, an all-electric city car. While this model is no longer widely available, it laid the groundwork for future EV efforts.
- End of Passenger Car Sales: In 2021, Mitsubishi Motors UK announced that it would stop selling passenger cars (like the Mirage and Lancer) in the UK due to a strategic shift in focus toward SUVs, crossovers, and electric vehicles. The brand decided to reduce its presence in the passenger car segment, a move that aligns with its global strategy to focus more on PHEVs and SUVs.
- Mitsubishi Warranty in the UK: Mitsubishi in the UK offers a comprehensive warranty, similar to other markets. This includes:
- 5-year/62,500-mile warranty (whichever comes first) for new cars.
- 8-year/100,000-mile warranty for the Outlander PHEV battery.
- Mitsubishi’s Future in the UK:
- Mitsubishi’s future in the UK appears to be centered on eco-friendly vehicles, particularly in the SUV market with a focus on plug-in hybrid vehicles like the Outlander PHEV. While the brand has reduced its portfolio and no longer sells many of its smaller passenger cars in the UK, its SUVs and hybrid vehicles continue to attract customers.
- Mitsubishi also remains committed to its involvement in the Renault-Nissan-Mitsubishi Alliance, which means it will benefit from shared technology and resources in future vehicle developments, including potential new electric vehicles.
- Dealerships and Service:
- Mitsubishi maintains a network of dealerships across the UK, offering sales, servicing, and parts. The UK is still an important market for Mitsubishi’s hybrid and SUV offerings, so dealers will continue to offer these models, along with aftersales services like repairs and warranty work.
Conclusion:
In the UK, Mitsubishi Motors has shifted its focus away from traditional small cars to a more niche offering of SUVs, hybrids, and electric vehicles. While the brand’s presence in the UK is not as large as it once was, Mitsubishi still holds a place in the UK market, particularly with its Outlander PHEV, ASX, and Eclipse Cross models. The company’s commitment to hybrids and electric mobility positions it well for future growth, especially as demand for more environmentally friendly vehicles