Something odd has happened along Mitsubishis supposed exit from the US new car market: it has updated its Outlander crossover SUV, has shown us a PHEV version of the same and this Japanese car manufacturer just introduced an all-new Mitsubishi Mirage at the New York International Auto Show. Perhaps rumors of Mitsubishis demise have been exaggerated after all.
The newest model, however, does not guarantee Mitsubishis success in the ultra-competitive domestic market. Indeed, it will take a lot more than an all-new Mitsubishi Mirage to stem the brand’s losses. In 2012, its sales fell by more than 20 percent in a market that grew by about 14 percent. Just 57,790 vehicles were sold reports Bloomberg Businessweek, far below the 345,000 Mitsubishi models driven off of dealer lots in 2002.
Subcompact Car Segment
The front-wheel-drive Mitsubishi Mirage is a five-door hatchback with room for five. Mitsubishi promises to serve up the most efficient model in the subcompact car segment, delivering a projected 37 mpg around the city and 44 mpg on the highway for a combined 40 mpg.
Those fuel economy numbers are better than what its competitors now offer including the Volkswagen Golf TDI. Cars such as the Chevy Sonic, Ford Fiesta, Mazda2, Toyota Yaris, Honda Fit and Nissan Versa will have to play catch up, with tiny Mitsubishi now setting pace. Who would have thunk?!
2014 Mitsubishi Mirage
The 2014 Mitsubishi Mirage gains a mileage edge by serving up a 1.2-liter three cylinder engine. Thats the type of motor offered in mini cars such as the Smart Fortwo, an engine that makes 74 horsepower at 6,000 rpm and 74 foot-pounds of torque at 4,000 rpm. You can pair this engine with a five-speed manual or a continuously variable transmission.
Standard equipment includes a tilt steering wheel, power windows, power door locks, automatic climate control, power side mirrors, keyless entry, a rear spoiler, a four-speaker audio system and a 60/40 split rear seat.
When upgrading from the Mitsubishi Mirage DE to the Mirage ES, a number of amenities are added including front fog lamps, 14-inch aluminum alloy wheels, a proximity key, push button start, a leather-wrapped steering wheel with audio controls, Bluetooth connectivity and cruise control.
Various packages will be offered including trim upgrades, a navigation system and rear parking assist.
Pricing will be announced before the model’s fall 2013 release.
Generous Safety Features
Mitsubishi will outfit every Mirage model with a host of standard safety features. Seven airbags including a drivers knee airbag a tire pressure monitoring system, anti-lock brakes, electronic brake-force distribution and brake assist are standard. In CVT-equipped models, hill start assist is added. Other safety features include stability control and traction control.
The hatchbacks handling benefits from electric power steering, what Mitsubishi says aids fuel efficiency. EPS also gives the driver a communicative steering feel and sharp 15.1 feet turning radius the best in its segment.
Mitsubishi Mirage Warranties
All 2014 Mitsubishi Mirage models will be backed by a 10-year, 100,000 mile powertrain warranty. A new vehicle limited warranty has you covered for 5 years or 60,000 miles, whichever comes first. Rust protection coverage and a roadside assistance plan are also provided.
See Also — Mitsubishi Cancels Galant Replacement Model
Photo courtesy of Mitsubishi Motors North America, Inc.