Mitsubishi’s entry-level model is back for 2018 largely unchanged following last year’s styling refresh, but it does gain a new trim level called the ES Plus, while the top-end model SEL model is now known as the GT.
It builds on the base ES model but adds air conditioning with manual controls, auto up/down for the driver’s power window, keyless entry and a 6.5-inch display audio system with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay smartphone integration, features that were previously limited to the top trim.
Otherwise, the Mirage carries over with power from a 1.2L three-cylinder that makes 78 hp and 74 lb-ft of torque. It comes with a five-speed manual transmission in ES and ES Plus models, both of which can be optioned to a continuously variable automatic that’s standard kit in the GT.
Last year’s redesign brought a much-needed dose of style to this little car, but it didn’t do much for the fact that it’s noisy inside and rides on a wishy-washy suspension that lets the body lean dramatically in corners.
But this is otherwise a fine little hatchback that unfortunately finds itself competing with more sophisticated cars like the Nissan Micra and Chevrolet Spark.
It’s hard to fault the Mirage’s fuel consumption, estimated at 6.4 L/100 km in city driving and 5.5 on the highway, figures good enough to make this one of the most efficient cars available today.
The Mirage’s list of safety kit is pretty basic, lacking any of the active safety features that have begun trickling down to other small cars, like collision detection, automatic emergency braking and blind spot monitoring.
But the GT model does boast some decent stuff, like HID headlights, heated side mirrors, automatic climate control, heated front seats, cruise control and high-contrast gauges.
This vehicle has not yet been reviewed
