Model Tested: 2014 Mitsubishi Mirage ES five-door hatchback
Engine: 1.2-liter three-cylinder DOHC, 72 horsepower 74 lb-ft torque
Transmission: Continuously Variable Automatic (CVT) front-wheel-drive
EPA Ratings: 37/City—44/Highway—40/Combined
Base Price: $15,195
As Tested: $15,990
Performance:
74 horsepower, 74 lb-ft torque
Seriously lacking power; agonizingly slow
CVT doesn’t help situation
Rough, noisy engine
Incredible fuel economy for a non-hybrid
Small tires equal un-sporty handling
Drum rear brakes
Compact, easy to park
Comfort:
Excellent front legroom
Top hat headroom
Pretty firm seats
Rear legroom tight unless front seats are moved up
Utility:
Good size front door bins
No rear door bins or any other rear seat storage
Split, folding rear seat
Small trunk/hatch opening
Flat cargo floor, but sloped folding rear seat
WOW Factors:
Fuel economy beats lots of hybrids
Low price, but justifiably so
Whines:
Embarrassing Plasma Purple (fuchsia/very hot pink) color on test car
Severely underpowered, struggles on steep hills
Uninspired styling
Interior has more plastic than a Beverly Hills cosmetic surgeon’s office
Bottom Line:
High fuel economy and a low price are the top reasons to consider a Mitsubishi Mirage, but after that the plus/minus list leans heavily toward the minus side. The Mitsubishi Mirage is basic transportation at its most basic level.
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