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MITSUBISHI Mirage Models/Series Timeline, Specifications & Photos

Generations: 3
First production year: 2012
Engines: Gasoline
Body style: Hatchback
MITSUBISHI Mirage photo gallery

The small-class vehicle has been around since 1978, when the first generation was introduced to the market. In 2012, the Japanese manufacturer unveiled the sixth generation, which was refreshed for the 2020 model.

For Mitsubishi, the sales were not so well, and by 2020 it began part of the Renault-Nissan Alliance, and it started to share some parts. But the Mirage was still a Mitsubishi product. The small-class vehicle, with its rounded edges, was a direct competitor against the Renault Clio and Nissan Micra. But it still had some design cues that made it pleasant on the market.

From the outside, the 2020 model received a new front fascia with redesigned headlights and new daytime running lights, available with LED technology. The front bumper was redesigned and made larger to improve pedestrian protection. As a consequence, the grille had to be reshaped. The rear received a wider look and a more significant presence thanks to the squared-off treatment of the bumper corners and new LED combination taillights. There was also a new design for the 15” light-alloy wheels as well.

Inside, the car received a 6.5” touch-screen display for the infotainment system, and it was able to connect to smartphones via Apple CarPlay or Android Auto. On top of that, a sat-nav system was available. Even for the base models, the Bluetooth connectivity was fitted as standard. The air-conditioning system, front power windows, and leather-wrapped steering wheel were on the offer.

Under the hood, the engineers trusted the already proven 1.2-liter, 80 hp gasoline engine. It was the only option available, and it was paired as standard to a 5-speed manual gearbox. The continuously variable transmission (CVT) was on the options list.

full description and technical specifications
MITSUBISHI Mirage GT photo gallery

In 2012, Mitsubishi introduced the sixth generation of the Mirage. It was a bold move into a market dominated by the European car-makers in Europe and by other Japanese manufacturers on the Asian markets.

For Mitsubishi, the sales were not so well. The small-class vehicle was a direct competitor against the Toyota Yaris and Nissan Micra with its rounded edges. But it still had some design cues that made it pleasant on the market.

From the outside, the 2017 model received a new front fascia with redesigned headlights. The front bumper was redesigned and became more aggressive. As a consequence, the grille had to be reshaped. The new rear bumper was redesigned for better airflow. The roof-spoiler received a different angle to improve the drag coefficient, which was reduced to 0.27.

Inside, the car received a new infotainment system, and it was able to connect to smartphones via Apple CarPlay or Android Auto. It was the first Mitsubishi vehicle that supported the latest technology. For the driver, there was a new steering wheel and a modern decoration for the instrument cluster.

Under the hood, the engineers installed a new, 1.2-liter, 80 hp gasoline engine. It was the only option available, and it was paired as standard to a 5-speed manual gearbox. The continuously variable transmission (CVT) was on the options list.

full description and technical specifications
MITSUBISHI Mirage photo gallery

The Japanese manufacturer started the Mirage's production in 1978, and the nameplate stayed in production until 2003. The model suffered lots of changes during these years, being sold under different names depending on market. Mirage was used for all the five generations in Japan, however, other markets utilized the name Mitsubishi Colt. As the vehicle was not very popular, it was discontinued in 2003.

In 2011, the Mirage returned, with Mitsubishi unveiling the sixth generation of the model at the Tokyo Motor Show. The objectives for this car were affordability and efficiency. The car's weight was reduced, switching to a more rounded design and reaching a class-leading drag coefficient of 0.27 Cd.

The features included for this model are decent: 15-inch alloy wheels, central locking, climate and cruise control, fog lamps, rain and headlamp sensors, electric mirror and keyless operation.

The first models included a 1.0-liter three-cylinder engine with AS&G and CVT and were available in Japan. In mid 2012, in the Philippines, the Mirage was available in 4 different variants – GLX and GLS and both came with either a 5-speed manual transmission or a CVT automatic transmission. The cars were powered by a 1.2-liter engine delivering 79 hp.

The Mitsubishi Mirage was backed by a 3-year unlimited mileage warranty. At the Euro NCAP crash test, the model scored 4 stars, however, all versions are equipped with six airbags and a stability control system.

full description and technical specifications