Mitsubishi Mirage used car review

The main model lines are the ES and slightly better dressed LS, plus a few Sport versions. Standard equipment includes air-conditioning and power windows and is on a par with most others in the class. Equipment levels improved with later versions.

Mirage has a very simple, straightforward mechanical format, employing a basic 1.2-litre three-cylinder petrol engine with Mitsubishi’s MIVEC variable valve timing system. This produces 57kW of power at 6000rpm and 100Nm at 4000rpm. It’s a high-revving engine so you do notice some engine noise.

On the road this rudimentary mechanical set-up and lightweight body do the job expected from this type of car. It has no trouble keeping pace with the traffic and it cruises along comfortably at highway speeds. The small turning circle and light steering make it extremely manoeuvrable. The suspension thumps a bit at times, although it tends to be heard more than felt. Note that it only carries a space-saver spare wheel.

For such a small car, Mirage’s cabin space is surprisingly good and its interior layout creates an open feel. It will easily accommodate two adults and three children but it would be extremely tight trying to seat three adults in the back. The seats are flat but comfortable enough for this type of vehicle, while throughout the cabin there are number of convenient storage compartments.

Australia’s Best Cars research found that Mirage is one of the cheapest cars on the market to service and maintain. Regular oil changes are important, and the CVT requires the transmission fluid to be changed every 90,000km. Check for signs of accident damage and poor-quality repairs, as well as normal wear items such as tyres and brakes.