Mitsubishi Mirage driving impression
Mitsubishi has entered the competitive A-segment for the first time in South Africa with the new Mirage, hoping to set the bar high with this small, affordable hatchback. The Mirage builds on the success of the model line overseas, and has demonstrated exceptional sales in international markets.
As Mitsubishi is targeting first-time buyers and those on very limited budgets, the Mirage was launched with quite an impressive price of R1 899 per month finance proposition which includes 12-months comprehensive insurance, making overall car ownership that much more affordable for younger buyers. However, as excited as people might be about the price – does the car match their expectations? As the supermini segment is especially competitive in SA, it might be difficult for a newcomer like the Mirage. Nevertheless, I gave the Mirage the benefit of the doubt.
The new Mitsubishi Mirage range is offered in three derivates, fronted by the new 1.2 Mivec GL, which includes standard equipment like keyless entry, a radio/CD audio system, colour-coded bumpers, a third rear brake light, electric power steering with a tilt-adjustable steering wheel, a multi-information display, front electric windows and manual air conditioning with a pollen filter. Fourteen-inch steel wheels are available as well as a full-size spare. The Mirage 1.2 Mivec GLX represents the mid-range model, adding a number of features to GL specification. Topping the new Mirage range is the 1.2 Mivec GLS, which features keyless start to complement the keyless entry, rear electric windows, auto up/down for the driver’s window, fully automatic climate control and front fog lights.
Each of the three derivatives is powered by Mitsubishi’s 1.2-litre, 3-cylinder petrol engine delivering 57 kW at 6 000 rpm. The 100 N.m of torque peaks at 4 000 rpm.
The price isn’t the only section where the new Mirage opts to stand out – the other is the fuel efficiency. It was named as one of Forbes Magazine’s ‘12 Greenest Cars of 2014’ – one of only two non-hybrid vehicles to make the coveted list and Mitsubishi claims fuel consumption of around 4.9 l/100 km. My fuel usage came in at about 7 l / 100 km, but do take into account I was driving in peak traffic for the most part of the week.
The immensely low fuel consumption of the Mirage comes at another cost though, the 1.2 engine is what you would expect of 1.2 – not particularly fast or powerful, instead merely taking you from point A to B.
Looking at the mirage, you can see it has been built for practicality – there’s reasons for the rather characterless front end – that reason being the aerodynamics – meaning that the rounded nose uses less fuel. Overall the ride is smooth and quiet on good roads, however it is worth mentioning that acceleration causes the engine noise to rise substantially as buyers might want to take that into account. For such a small car the cabin is quite roomy with an unexpected stylish interior.
As a newcomer, the Mirage is a solid effort by Mitsubishi, although a little rough around the edges. But the price of the flagship GLS I tested comes in a little high, therefore – if you’re thinking of buying the Mirage, I would advise you to opt for the entry-level GL instead. Other than that, the Mitsubishi Mirage ticks all the boxes for the supermini segment – affordable, easy to drive and minimal fuel consumption.
All new Mitsubishi Mirage models are backed by Mitsubishi’s comprehensive 3-year/ 100 000 km warranty. Service intervals are set at every 15 000 km, and a 2-year/ 30 000 km service plan is included in the retail price.
Pricing:
Mirage 1.2 MIVEC GL 5M/T – R124,900
Mirage 1.2 MIVEC GLX 5M/T – R134,900
Mirage 1.2 MIVEC GLS 5M/T – R144,900