2017 Mitsubishi Mirage Review

The Mitsubishi Mirage is a subcompact hatchback that boasts a significant following in the Kenyan market owing to its good fuel economy and affordable acquisition cost. Urban dwellers will find it suitable as a daily driver due to its practicality and maneuverability. Folks who value speed and performance will not find it in the Mirage as it comes with a small engine whose primary objective is fuel efficiency. As much as it is considered very reliable, it competes with Honda Fit, Nissan March, Suzuki Alto, and Daihatsu Mira.

Detailed Review

2017 Mitsubishi Mirage front view

2017 Mitsubishi Mirage front view

The Mitsubishi Mirage debuted in 1978 and remained in production until 2003 when its production was paused. In 2012, the manufacturers resumed the production of the Mirage which replaced the Mitsubishi Colt. When designing the Mirage, affordability, and fuel efficiency were the core objectives of the manufacturers.

The 2017 Mitsubishi Mirage is available with only one engine option, a 1.2 L (Petrol) connected to either a 5-speed manual transmission or CVT.

 2017 Mitsubishi Mirage Grades

  1. Mitsubishi Mirage ES- This grade comes with parking distance sensors, electronic brake force distribution, climate control, Bluetooth connectivity, a multi-function display screen, and brake assist.
  2. Mitsubishi Mirage SE- This grade has a 12-volt power outlet, power mirrors, body-colored door handles, active stability control, multiple airbags, an Isofix bar, a low tire pressure indicator, and an AM/FM Radio.
  3. Mitsubishi Mirage GT- This grade encompasses four speakers, a CD player, remote audio controls, brake assist, power windows, a 12-volt power output, and parking distance sensors.

Interior

Legroom & Space

The 2017 Mitsubishi Mirage has a very plain and basic cabin. The first row has ample legroom and headroom and its seats can be reclined to meet a desired posture. The second row is pretty decent for an average person for it has sufficient knee room and headroom. However, taller passengers might find it crampy.

2017 Mitsubishi Mirage first row

2017 Mitsubishi Mirage first row

2017 Mitsubishi Mirage second row

2017 Mitsubishi Mirage second row

Cabin Storage

The 2017 Mitsubishi Mirage has multiple storage compartments that are intended to improve the comfort of occupants by storing or holding items like soft drinks, beverages, paperwork, and other things. The first row encompasses a glove box compartment, three cupholders, and door panel storage. Passengers in the second row have access to door pockets and jacket pockets.

Boot Space

The 2017 Mitsubishi Mirage has an ample cargo area that can accommodate small to medium-sized luggage. To create extra space, the rear seats can be folded.

2017 Mitsubishi Mirage boot space

2017 Mitsubishi Mirage boot space

Exterior

The 2017 Mitsubishi Mirage is a compact hatchback that is minimalistic but somewhat pleasant. The front end features a nicely curved chrome-accented grille that bears the brand’s emblem which helps it assert its presence. Depending on the trim level, the grille may vary in shape designs. The sweptback headlights together with the LED daytime running lights give this car an upscale look.

The Mirage has nicely done contours and a streamlined silhouette which play a big role in improving aerodynamics by reducing air resistance. The side profile is very conservative. The rear end features tail lights and turn signals as well as a roof spoiler that enhances the sportiness of this car.

2017 Mitsubishi Mirage front view

2017 Mitsubishi Mirage front view

2017 Mitsubishi Mirage front and side view

2017 Mitsubishi Mirage front and side view

2017 Mitsubishi Mirage rear and side view

2017 Mitsubishi Mirage rear and side view

2017 Mitsubishi Mirage rear view

2017 Mitsubishi Mirage rear view

2017 Mitsubishi Mirage Safety Features

The 2017 Mitsubishi Mirage features multiple airbags, an anti-lock braking system, electronic brake force distribution, and brake assist.

2017 Mitsubishi Mirage Fuel Consumption

2017 Mitsubishi Mirage 1.2 L petrol engine consumption- 15.6 km/l on average

2017 Mitsubishi Mirage Acceleration

2017 Mitsubishi Mirage 1.2 L petrol engine accelerates from 0-100km/h in 12.4 secs

The 2017 Mitsubishi Mirage Fuel Tank Capacity: 35 liters

Ground Clearance: The 2017 Mitsubishi Mirage has a ground clearance of 6.3 inches which is below the required standard of 6.5 inches on Kenyan roads.

Service Intervals

Minor Service: At 5,000 km. Requires Air Cleaner, Oil Filter, and Engine Oil.

Major Service: At 10,000km. Requires Air Cleaner, Oil Filter, Fuel Filter, ATF Filter, Cabin Filter, Plugs, Front Brake Pads, Rear Brake Pads, ATF Oil, and Engine Oil.

Spare Parts and Availability

Mitsubishi Mirage spares, especially body parts are not as easily available in Kenya and they are sometimes expensive. Service parts are fairly affordable and easy to find within Nairobi and other major towns.

Stability And Handling

The 2017 Mitsubishi Mirage rides smoothly and it is very agile. Owing to its compactness, it can be easily maneuvered especially when driving in confined spaces or when trying to park in a small space. The power-assisted steering wheel also plays a big role in the Mirage’s agility as it adapts very well to road curvature.

The suspension does a good job of cushioning passengers from unstable motions. Because of its low ground clearance, it is not advisable to drive the mirage on off-road terrains as you risk damaging its body components which could be costly to either repair or replace them.

The engine works in tandem with the transmission system to deliver a smooth start and decent acceleration. However, folks who value performance and speed might be turned off by the Mirage’s engine. Brake assist and electronic brake force distribution play a role in improving the stability of this compact hatchback.

2017 Mitsubishi Mirage steering wheel & gear shift

2017 Mitsubishi Mirage steering wheel & gear shift

2017 Mitsubishi Mirage cluster meter

2017 Mitsubishi Mirage cluster meter

2017 Mitsubishi Mirage engine

2017 Mitsubishi Mirage engine

2017 Mitsubishi Mirage wheel

2017 Mitsubishi Mirage wheel

2017 Mitsubishi Mirage suspension system

2017 Mitsubishi Mirage suspension system

Reliability

The 2017 Mitsubishi Mirage is largely considered a reliable car. Due to its low ground clearance, one should not be tempted to drive it on off-road terrains as its body components can be damaged. Just like any other car, the Mirage is not immune to problems. Transmission issues and screeching brakes are some of the most commonly reported troubles in this car. Regular service and maintenance are essential to avoid experiencing such kind of problems.

Refer to the Mitsubishi Mirage buyer guide for a thorough reliability report. We also urge that you always follow the instructions in the owner’s manual.

Resale Value: Average

Mitsubishi Mirage Competitors: Honda Fit, Nissan March, Suzuki Alto, and Daihatsu Mira.

What we like about the 2017 Mitsubishi Mirage

Impressive fuel economy

Affordable

What we dont

Acceleration is very sluggish

Low-quality materials in the cabin

Minimal backseat legroom

Conclusion

The 2017 Mitsubishi Mirage is a compact hatchback that has received mixed reactions since it resumed its production in 2012. Owing to the surging prices of fuel in the country, the Mirage will give you an excellent fuel economy and you won’t feel a pinch of the rising cost of fuel. Urban dwellers will find it ideal for use as a daily driver for it is practical and can easily maneuver in traffic. Folks who are after performance will for sure be disappointed by the Mirage for it is powered by a very small engine whose primary objective is fuel efficiency. People on a tight budget can afford to buy this car as its purchase price is reasonable and the service and maintenance are also not exorbitant. Click here to download the 2017 Mitsubishi Mirage Owner’s Manual. 

2017 Mitsubishi Mirage side view

2017 Mitsubishi Mirage side view

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