2018 Mitsubishi Mirage Review

Detailed Review

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 2018 Mitsubishi Mirage is available with only one engine option, a 1.2 L (Petrol) connected to either a 5-speed manual transmission or CVT.

2018 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, a reverse camera, 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, keyless entry, power windows, a 12-volt power output, and parking distance sensors.

Interior

Legroom & Space

The 2018 Mitsubishi Mirage has a utilitarian cabin full of plastic touches on the dashboard. The first row has reasonably comfortable seats with sufficient legroom and headroom. People of average size will find the second row comfortable but taller occupants will find it crampy due to limited space for the legs and knees.

Cabin Storage

The 2018 Mitsubishi Mirage incorporates several 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 jacket pockets and door pockets.

Boot Space

The 2018 Mitsubishi Mirage features a sizeable boot space that can haul small and medium-sized cargo. The rear seats can be folded to create more room for more cargo.

Exterior

The 2018 Mitsubishi Mirage has an appealing and refined look. The front end of the mirage is easily distinguishable through its slanting bonnet and the chrome-accented grille adorned with the Mitsubishi “shield-like” logo. Passengers enjoy an excellent and commanding view of the oncoming traffic. The sweptback headlights together with the LED daytime running lights lend this car a modern appearance. The lower fascia features fog lights and air vents. Depending on the owner’s taste in design, a lip spoiler can be well placed on the lower bumper to enhance the Mirage’s overall appearance.

This car boasts neatly done contours that help in improving aerodynamics. The rear end is very conservative as it only incorporates tail lights, turn signals, and a roof spoiler.

2018 Mitsubishi Mirage Safety Features

The 2018 Mitsubishi Mirage features multiple airbags, an anti-lock braking system, electronic brake force distribution, and brake assist.

2018 Mitsubishi Mirage Fuel Consumption

2018 Mitsubishi Mirage 1.2 L petrol engine consumption- 15.4 km/l on average

2018 Mitsubishi Mirage Acceleration

2018 Mitsubishi Mirage 1.2 L petrol engine accelerates from 0-100km/h in 12.2 secs

The 2018 Mitsubishi Mirage Fuel Tank Capacity: 35 liters

Ground Clearance: The 2018 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 2018 Mitsubishi Mirage offers a pleasant and sturdy ride. The steering wheel is power-assisted hence it allows it to effectively respond to road bends and curves. Its compactness is a plus to urban dwellers as it can be driven in confined spaces especially when in traffic. Its cabin is not thoroughly insulated to prevent outside noise picked from uneven surfaces or even the engine from causing discomfort to the occupants.

The suspension system is up to the task as passengers are protected from experiencing jerky movements. The brakes are robust enough and capable of bringing the Mirage to a complete stop to avoid any kind of disaster. 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. Some of the technologies incorporated in this car to improve its stability include Brake assist, electronic brake force distribution, and anti-lock braking system.

Reliability

The 2018 Mitsubishi Mirage is regarded as 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. Transmission issues and screeching brakes are some of the most commonly reported troubles by Mirage owners. Regular service and maintenance are essential to avoid experiencing such kinds 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 2018 Mitsubishi Mirage

Impressive fuel economy

Affordable

What we don’t

Acceleration is very sluggish

Low-quality materials in the cabin

Minimal backseat legroom

Engine noise

Conclusion

The 2018 Mitsubishi Mirage is an excellent family car for folks with small households. Owing to its outstanding fuel economy, it has been largely embraced in the transport industry either as a daily driver or taxi. Enthusiasts will not find the performance they want in the Mirage as the manufacturers only availed a smaller engine that is fuel eccentric and not power-oriented. Individuals on a tight budget can buy this car and as well manage to service it throughout. The Mitsubishi Mirage can be fitted with after-market modifications to improve its overall appearance. Click here to download the 2018 Mitsubishi Mirage Owner’s Manual.