7 July 2016

Mitsubishi Mirage 2016 car review

The latest Mitsubishi Mirage is a compact hatch that has received a fresh face-lift with small improvements here and there. It’s a car that you’d be happy to run about town in, which comes with a very acceptable price tag and is incredibly economical to run.


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Mitsubishi Mirage 2016
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In an effort to make this micro car appear larger and sportier than before, the front and rear bumpers have been restyled, adding an extra 85mm to the vehicle’s length. The chrome accentuations under the grille, muscular bonnet design, re-styled rear spoiler and 15” alloy wheels all round up the exterior refresh.

Inside, the fresh black and ivory detail gives this car a hint of class. The addition of the driver’s vanity mirror though is just a bit over the top. The new and improved design of the instrument cluster, along with the three dial, manual air condition give the Mirage a more modern feel.

The stability of the suspension and handling has been improved by adding suspension stiffeners and an increased suspension spring rate, and re-tuned electronic power steering and dampers. The CVT transmission has been remapped to improve the acceleration of the Mirage. The mighty 1.2L, 3-cylinder engine now accelerates between 60-80km/h.

Say goodbye to Passion and Wasabi paint colour choices and instead welcome Garnet (purple) and Sunrise (orange) paint jobs.

The Mirage is pinned as a Kiwi favourite with a more cultured attitude.

At a glance
Models XLS
Engine 1.2L, 3-cylinder
Price $19,990
ANCAP safety rating 5 star (2013 onwards)
Power 58 kW
Transmission CVT
Fuel economy 4.9L/100km
Towing capacity N/A
2WD/4WD/AWD 2WD
Safety systems
Hill start assist Smart Brake Technology
Electronic Brake Force Distribution (EBD) ESC Stability Control
Four-wheel ABS Dual-stage driver, passenger, side and curtain airbags
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