Long-Term Wrap-Up: Mitsubishi Mirage ES | Driving.ca

[@brunothepug8807]

I find it fascinating that most reviewers piss on this car yet most owners report being very satisfied with it. I appreciate you were open minded and kept expectations consistent with price and it's target market. I would consider it for a second car for errand running.

[@edgaryzen4925]

It a great daily commuter too. It nice to have something different from Toyota with similar DNA, at least for once

[@jasonschlesinger5343]

These "professional reviewers" hate this car because they don't live in reality. They are always driving either expensive brands or the top trims. I heard press cars have been altered (more soundproofing, better quality control) though who knows how true that is. I wouldn't be surprised if it's true. This is a perfectly good car. Easy to drive, park, maintain, and cheap on gas. Of course it's slow. It's a 1.2L 3 cylinder subcompact economy car. I don't know why people are surprised it's slow. It's perfectly fine for what it is.

[@edgaryzen4925]

@@jasonschlesinger5343 well said

[@jasonschlesinger5343]

I tried finding one in the fall of 2021. No such luck. I found a 2017 Hyundai Accent which is pretty similar. I am happy with it but preferred the Mirage.

[@jasonschlesinger5343]

@@Plisken65 I am happy with the Accent. I still like the Mirage. Its not as common as Hyundai/Kia and the 3 cylinder engines have a nice distinctive sound compared to the 4 cylinders. I wish they made more cars like this for Canada. This is pretty much all you need in a car.

[@vincentnater9417]

Honestly, i love my 2022 Mirage. The gas milage is incredible, and the simplicity of it means there's less that can break or go wrong. In this case, less truly is more. It's a fantastic and honest vehicle.

[@lklpalka]

I am guessing your actual mpg are better than stated. I was getting 52 hwy with my rental and the warranty is excellent

[@oi32df]

Just wish they didn't have electric front window . I hope there is no door lock either?

[@lklpalka]

My 2015 purchased 5/15 still gets better than EPA. Other than no obvious clear coat 😡 it's still on the original NISSAN OEM battery mfg 12/14 (distilled H²0 only) no problems at all, normal maintenance, comfortable seats and quiet.

[@oi32df]

@@lklpalka interesting for your battery, it's the first thing that failed on my Sentra '95. btw I thought Nissan's share in Mitsu was just a recent thing with their outlander/rogue.

[@lklpalka]

@@oi32df I think you're correct there. Been a few years but mergers are slow to see changes.

[@ennis8915]

I have a 2015 mirage 220,000km never seen a shop and still runs and drives like the day I bought it great around car.

[@chadraptor]

it's a really good daily driver/commuter car, with gas prices these days i think more people should consider it

[@edgaryzen4925]

Yes, especially with the used car market too.

[@izzatfauzimustafa6535]

In the time when roads are becoming saturated with SUVs and cars with really complicated electronically-linked mechanical parts and in-car entertainment, driving a hugely simple back-to-basics economy car with lesser electronics could be a good automotive "detox".

[@chadraptor]

@@izzatfauzimustafa6535 exactly!

[@jasonschlesinger5343]

People with the SUV/trucks were laughing at the time. Who is laughing now at $2 per litre?

[@jasonschlesinger5343]

I tried finding one in the fall of 2021. Couldn't find one. I found a 2017 Hyundai Accent sedan instead. I am happy with it Similar type of car. I would've preferred the Mitsubishi for better fuel economy.

[@wanderer1125]

I still drive my 2013 mirage 5speed. While it's true that sometimes I wish I had a better car, this car is just so damn reliable! It does what it should efficiently. Cheap to maintain and cheap to run and none of the BS! with today's crazy fuel prices, makes me appreciate this more and more.

[@seby.augustine]

Why there is no central locking? Is there any place you can suggest me to fix that

[@wanderer1125]

@@seby.augustine mine has central locking like most stock mirage. I'm from an asian country so I really can't recommend a place/shop for you to have that fixed. I guess any car accessory shops should be able to work on installing a central lock.

[@MrWackozacko]

I have the same car i think, 2013 mirage 5 speed 3 cylinder 1.2L engine. I love these little japanese cars, i have had a daihatsu handivan, charade and a suzuki carry to suit my various jobs but now the mirage and its the smoothest and fastest and also most efficient. Australia

[@LTLT900]

Mine is a 2013 too. It's very hard to justify spending a lot more money for a new car which is probably not as reliable. I think I will drive mine until it doesn't drive anymore.

[@leogeee1]

I love what you said. I feel the same way about my 2015 Nissan Note. Incredible gas mileage, super reliable and even though I wish I drove a more luxurious car sometimes I'll be grateful for my Note.

[@williambeck6364]

I'm on my 2nd Mirage a 2018 SE with all the bells and whistles. 104,000 miles so far. Love the CVT...great mileage. Just got home from a 2,300 mile week-long trip with the Mirage doing 75-80 mph on the interstates....and the engine revs mostly below 3,000rpm except when climbing hills. Very comfy too. And I agree the Mirage is pretty wonderful in snow with it's stock skinny tires.....it just cuts through the snow. Amazing! EDIT 2/10/24 - THE Mirage now has 150,000 miles on it. Still has a nice ride, steering tracks straight and true. No rattles. Still great mpg. CVT is great!

[@nodak81]

One of very few cars with a reliable CVT. It's really only because the car is so light that it doesn't strain the transmission much. There's a good reason CVTs were only found in golf carts in times past.

[@kylemas2005]

@@nodak81 Mitsubishi and Suzuki both do well with JATCO CVTs including their larger vehicles like the Outlander Sport and Eclipse Cross. I don't know why Nissan can't get their spec version JATCO CVTs performing correctly?

[@ronaldderooij1774]

@@kylemas2005 Mitsubishi mounts an oil cooler for the transmission. Even on the Mirage/Space Star. Nissan does not. Same transmission, makes all the difference.

[@07734YYC]

Thank you for such an honest, down to earth review. We need more affordable cars like these that won't break the bank, especially since car prices and interest rates are all going up. It really pisses me off that other car "journalists" badmouth this car so much, maybe just as clickbait for their videos. Keep up the good work! 👍

[@douggoins2960]

Me and my wife just got one of these recently. It has 59k miles. The driving position is a little high, but it's not that bad. It's the newest car we've ever had

[@MrPr3shaff]

I put 222,088 miles on my 2015. The CVT went out. I was so impressed with it, I bought a 2022.

[@bobjohnson205]

Hopefully, this time the CVT will last a little longer....

[@SPUPRR]

The floor mat thing most likely was because the whole Run away Toyota problem a few years ago that was jammed Pedals from the floor mats.

[@PKudu]

I drove my 2017 5 speed to Thunder Bay and back last summer. 1400km one way cost me $82 at around $1.55/L for gas. It maintained 4.6L/100km the entire way driving a steady 105kph. Comfort was ok as I'm a pretty big dude. I also did the same drive in the past with a Ford Escape and GMC Acadia. Those were obviously more comfortable, but also a snore fest on a 14 hour drive. Also as far as comparing it to a used car: I couldn't get 0% financing on a used vehicle, and I've had to do zero repairs on this thing other than a ball joint after I slid into a curb on black ice. Only maintenance was oil, brakes, and tires so far.

[@AndrewGeierMelons]

Hey Pat 🤣

[@PKudu]

@@AndrewGeierMelons sap?

[@bobjohnson205]

Why would you want to go to Thunder Bay? lol

[@Prototype_TB]

I just recently purchased my 2022 Mitsubishi Mirage G4 with the CVT. I LOVE THIS CAR! it's exactly what I wanted. Cheap, Efficient, and great value. My only complaint is going highway speeds when it is windy out or driving near big trucks. You will have to man handle the electronic steering since the wind loves to pull this car! Besides that i love the rear camera, apple play, not terrible audio quality, and the cheap 9 gallon tank that i have to refill once every 2 weeks.

[@theWZZA]

My first car was a Ford Escort LX, 88 hp, 5 speed. I drove it for 16 years in CA and all over the American west. Never felt under powered except on steep grades like the grapevine on I-5. The Mirage reminds me a lot of that car; if I needed a new car right now, the 5-speed ES Mirage is what I would buy.

[@robertonavarro7713]

I used to own a Chevy Sprint ER with a 3 cyl 5 speed. It was supposed to be the lousiest car in USA but I’ve driven it to LA and SF and back more than a dozen times, usually at night and all kinds of weather. It was a fun car especially negotiating the high mountain pass 152 from I-5 to 101. Never had a single breakdown thru several years driving it. A real fun but utterly reliable car.

[@Sandra-bq9yw]

I have a 2018 mirage purchased new, it's a great little car, lots of room inside, amazingly cheap to run, only done 35,000kms so far but no issues at all, I love my little mirage.

[@sjmullen6691]

I have a 2020 Mirage. Not much in the power department, but love the dependability and good gas mileage. I'm happy with it overall.

[@Oddman1980]

I bought a 2017 Mirage G4 in 2017. It's one of the few G4 sedans I've found with a manual. My wife and i have driven the car over 120,000 miles and the only thing it's needed is tires, gas, and oil changes. The 78 horsepower doesn't seem to matter, as everywhere I drive it I'm stuck behind a car with more power that is going *slower*. I can confirm it's completely unstoppable in winter weather, where I live we get a few inches of snow with a polished ice surface underneath, and the mirage just zips around while people are sliding their luxury SUV's off the road.

[@thomasfolse7912]

I’m a mobile detailer and I got a 2022 5 speed hatch, I love it! I’m shocked at how it doesn’t rattle on the inside at all, can’t say the same for Mercedes’

[@bimmerwman]

I have owned two of these (2014 and 2017) and would definitely consider a 3rd one. It is just such a great value. I absolutely hate the CVT in the 2017 however. The Manual in my 2014 is frankly the perfect car for me.

[@dsvmeer]

Good review Clayton Seams. I've had my Mirage over 8 years. No A/C and manual ES trim. Took 8 years to ever put more than $40 to fill. Has saved me a bundle with our yo yo gas prices! Handles great and fun to drive, kinda small leg room wise but so what.

[@legion1630]

hello am curious did you ever change the transmission oil? nd at what mileages

[@oi32df]

@@legion1630 if this is for a cvt with frequent oil changes (not recommended...) his is manual .

[@nodak81]

People complain about the power. They seem to forget it has almost three times the horsepower of the original VW Beetle.

[@interpol007]

I’d love to be able to get a mirage manual in a higher trim, or at the very least have cruise with the base model (like in the US)

[@kristianhermann5971]

Agreed - the CAN ES trim is missing cruise, power door locks, and a height adjustable drivers seat - all standard on the US trim and mandatory IMO - come on Mitsubishi

[@kristianhermann5971]

If your handy, there's always the Rostra aftermarket cruise kit - I installed on my 07' Kia Rio M/T - works great

[@Mikey-catman]

​@@kristianhermann5971 about 3k cheaper than in USA though. Works for me

[@bobjohnson205]

The 2024 ES now comes standard with cruise! They must have heard you! lol

[@glennkennedy441]

Nice review, somehow I became fascinated with the Mirage and am actually considering purchasing one, hope it's good in the snow!

[@leeham6230]

I've driven mine in snow; just feels like a standard FWD. It is lighter than other cars, but the thin wheels help it dig into the snow just fine.

[@moted1253]

Everything you said is right. Got a sedan vversion of this car called mirage g4 (5 speed manual). Same engine, and they just add a trunk. Its not that exciting to drive but it can get you to point a to b. In acceleration like in overtaking you need to wait like 1-2 sec. for the power to come in.

[@edgaryzen4925]

The fact that the trunk space is competitively similar to the compact sedan is impressive for the $! Perfect for growing family of 4 too!

[@kylemas2005]

The G4 has more rear passenger legroom than a Nissan Altima, a car 2 class sizes up from the Mirage. Also the secret Mirage turbo option is just turn off the AC and switch it to Ds mode when having to merge fast in an emergency situation, otherwise no issues at all with 78HP.

[@platec4798]

I love my 2019 Mirage! 5 speed manual, great reliable car. My truck and Jeep are just weekend warriors at this point.

[@johncoffman2703]

My 2021 is an awesome car but I do long commutes. Very easy to service and keep up with the maintenance. A better launch get would help on take-offs.

[@justsumguy2u]

In my area, dealers don't even sell the base Mirage, you can only get an uplevel one that stickers at over $16K. If I wanted a base model, I'd have to order it

[@ritzjenzy]

I Love my Mirage 2022 Black Edition. People think it is a useless car, but hey! I can speed up and go with a fast flow pace traffic and can drive up to Yosemite which is super great. A humble car and yet, it does what it does. Point A to Z trip with extra pocket money for goodies while on the trip.

[@jd-py5nm]

ive had mine 5 years love it served my family well

[@mdubb4855]

Floor mat is undercut so the gas pedal can't possibly get trapped at WOT. Tragic accidents on other makes a few years ago.

[@the_harbour_boys]

well as a base model owner of a lancer , they seem to have the same layout and it does its job , the shifters like all FWD cars are 9 times out of 10 cable fed transmission do there is no feel in the shifter untlike a AWD or RWD

[@ficklefingeroffate]

Moving to the CVT from the manual makes a huge difference on the interstate. My car runs at 70 mph with the tac showing 2500 rpm and returns 44mpg cruising at that speed.

[@johnpatterson4901]

Very nice! Just the comment I’ve been searching for. I drive 40 miles one way at 65mph, so hopefully your mpg’s is achievable for me as well.

[@luisluis952]

@@johnpatterson4901can you explain me what is mpg and why cvt is better? I thought it would has more gas consumption

[@RacecarsAndRicefish]

This is very cool. Once these are 20 years old and dirt cheap I will definitely get one or two. I am all about easily-repaired, small, minimalist cars. Having AC and powered windows will be a true luxury

[@AndrewGeierMelons]

Satisfied with my 2022 so far. Plus sizing to 16" wheels can improve fuel efficiency on the manuals as it changes/fixes the effective gear ratio and final drive to be much more in-line with Ontario speed limits. Car was made for Thailand so it got very short gear ratios. Increasing the actual rolling diameter of the wheel and tire combination by about 5% means that the speedometer now shows exactly the speed I'm actually going, and the gear ratios are about 5% better - resulting in about 5% better high speed fuel efficiency which is important in Canada, with less stop and go traffic and more highway/long-distance driving. I'm going to grab coilovers and sway bars for mine to improve handling feel and reduce body roll. I'm a track day instructor for Ontario and Quebec so I'm constantly road-tripping and I don't want to spend much on a car that isn't my race car so I got the Mirage as it's the most affordable car in the long run, once you factor in my 200,000 km optional/available warranty. I led a low-ish speed lead-follow exercise on a race track in my Mirage and genuinely didn't find it that bad. It went where I wanted it to, I just had to adapt to a lot of bodyroll. I've already changed the shift knob for one that's smaller and metal, it feels nicer to shift now, I can easily tell which gear it's in as the metal gives more feedback and definitely think that the reviewer's take on the shifter is because of the dulling/numbing of the plastic in the shift knob. Mitsubishi could absolutely offer one of these in a Ralliart trim package with stiffer suspension, sway bars, and a bit of an appearance package.

[@greeneking77]

But if you upsize the wheels doesn't that mean you have to get wider tires also, which will add more rolling resistance and decrease fuel economy?

[@kristianhermann5971]

@@greeneking77 You can keep the section width the same, but increase the aspect ratio or wheel size to increase diameter. But the contact patch will lengthen and increase rolling resistance. It also raises ride height, which increases drag - not a good idea IMO - short gearing improves City MPG, so any perceived loss in Hwy MPG is offset provided you drive roughly 50:50 mix (like most)

[@ronaldderooij1774]

If you press the radio button 3 seconds, it switches off until you press it again. It is in the owner's manual. I have a 2015 Instyle (so with a lot of luxury options) with CVT with 121.000 km and had zero defects. Not even a light bulb broke. No rattles, still original brakes and exhaust and no measurable oil consumption yet. Try that with a Chevy Spark. I love this car to bits. But.... deplore that in Europe emissions standards forced down the power from 80 hp to 71 hp and the torque from 106 Nm to 102 Nm. My fuel consumption over 121000 km is on average 4.5 l/100km (eco driving style).

[@michaelsalgado4472]

The sound system seems to be the factory OEM.

[@dennman6]

Yes, and no SXM radio head units offered :(

[@stevejohnson1321]

It seems the five-speed is discontinued for U.S. -- I can't speak regarding Canada. I wanted one of these back in 2018, but didn't want to deal with the jatco CVT.

[@poppyneese1811]

Everything you need and nothing you don’t! My wife and I bought a Chevette back in 84, all we could afford but what a tough lil car! This Mitsubishi is a rocket ship compared to that old Chevette with it whopping 60 horsepower!

[@Rapscallion2009]

I don't know if Canada gets Suzuki cars (USA doesn't, I know for sure). But their small cars (Ignis and Swift, particularly) make the Mirage look like an F350. And come with optional AWD.

[@yamil.343]

Great review! I have a ‘23 Mirage & love it. I had 2 Cavaliers before this one. And although I like Chevy, it doesn’t compare. An honest little car indeed. 😊

[@gp235801]

@1:55 I would never complain if it plays Ace of Spades for the rest of my life. RIP Lemmy Kilmister.

[@davidheinzmann4403]

It could have been ABBA

[@andrewmarquez815]

Great honest review 😊

[@gpfmiller1977]

I just bought one of these last week. I literally have the same car as in this review (right down to the colour). I've averaged 5.3L / 100KM. Does it match our Lexus IS 300? Nope! But it's a great little car for scooting around.

[@ResponseAudio]

Ace of Spades!

[@gregnixon1296]

Lemmy Kilmister would be proud. RIP.

[@babyloobibovski2947]

This car was the only one with standard side-curtain airbags. I got T-boned driver-side in an intersection. Boy was I happy I bought that car in the moment my head bounced off an airbag and not a pillar or glass

[@lklpalka]

Good review. Honest. Can't beat I the mirage for about town stuff

[@drivingca]

Thanks for watching!

[@kylemas2005]

@@drivingca I'm on my 4th Mirage between my wife and I. We've owned a 2014 DE CVT in kiwi green, a 2017 ES CVT G4 white sedan variant, my new 2021 ES CVT in infrared, and we just got my wife another G4 this time being the 2022 Black Edition CVT in metallic black. These are dead reliable vehicles, in spite of having a JATCO CVT. People that say these aren't highway worthy are major, spoiled pussies. I drove my 2014, which only had 74HP, all over the eastern seaboard, on I95, one of the fastest, most dangerous highways in America. It did the job just fine. I avg 38mpg doing about 75mph on most road trips. Road and wind noise isn't that bad at all, nothing your speakers can't handle. If the day is very windy, yes you can be shifted an inch or two but nothing drastic at all. The vast majority of bitching about the Mirage is from non owners who have no frame of reference.

[@lklpalka]

@@kylemas2005 these vehicles do just fine all over the globe. Maybe not so much in spoiled countries. The JATCO is Scotty K's favorite bitch but I think he's been a few cents short for some time now.

[@Gord1973]

We have a 2022 Mirage SE and I really expected to hate it. We bought it as a cheap commuter. I have a 2015 Ram 1500 hemi and my wife had a 2014 caravan. We’ve had the mirage for 3 months now and have over 10000km on it. I actually really enjoy driving it and there is lots of leg room, etc…. I’m 6’1” and not cramped at all. We’ve since sold my wife’s van as we stopped using it. We still need the truck to pull our boat. The things I dislike about the mirage are really trivial. 1. The low fuel indicator it does have one really. Just the digital fuel indicator blinks on and off but it’s almost at zero anyway so you often don’t notice it. 2. The electric fan for the radiator turns on and off way too fast, it will literally kick on and off every 2 seconds, it’s just going to wear out the relay fast. 3. We have the SE and it has Apple CarPlay but it only works wired and not over Bluetooth. 4. I would like the passenger front seat to also have an armrest That’s it. It’s a great car, I expect to be buying another one in the future

[@kylemas2005]

You can use bluetooth independently of Apple CarPlay or Android Auto. Just unplug it from its USB port and switch to bluetooth mode on your steering wheel. I also use my 12V outlet to charge my phone, as it's alot faster than using the USB outlet. My wife and I are on our 4th Mirages, a 2014 DE CVT, 2017 ES CVT G4 sedan variant, my current 2021 ES CVT, and I just got my wife a new G4 Black edition 2022. Reliability is a fantastic reason to own a Mirage. The JATCO CVT7 isn't stressed at all, like it is in Nissan products such as the Juke or Cube. 78HP and low curb weight equals exceptional cvt reliability. My 2014 I used for Uber ride share and I beat the dog shit out of it putting 100k miles on it in under 3 years. Never once did I have a CEL or any major issue, only a failing door lock actuator. I'd still be driving it today if I hadn't totaled it last December. The 3A92 engine is timing chained and has been in continuous production since 2003, so you know it's a proven engine design. I never experienced any oil leaks at all. The patented Mitsubishi RISE safety cage saved my life on the freeway, I walked away unhurt. It would of been a different story if I was driving a small car from the 90s. Folks who say these cars aren't freeway worthy are giant pussies, who've never owned one. I drove my old Geo Metro/Suzuki Swift rebadge across the country and it only had 60HP lol. My only complaint is that Mitsubishi part prices are expensive and that the aftermarket selection can be sparse. I also think Mitsubishi dealers are shady as hell but thank god I've never needed warranty work as these cars are basic but dead reliable.

[@Gord1973]

@@kylemas2005 This is our first mirage but we really enjoy it so far. I entirely expect it won’t be our last. We have >15000 kms on it so far which is just shy of 10000 miles and we have only had it since May. Definitely impressed so far.

[@kylemas2005]

@@Gord1973 Your 175 55 r15 tire size is rare and expensive. When your ready to change switch up to 185 55 r15, it's within the 3% differential tire shops recommend, there's alot more options in that size too that's cheaper and your mpg won't take a hit because it's just barely taller than the OEM tire.

[@corradettimotorsports360]

I had both a Mirage (2015) and Spark (2019) both are great valued packed cars, the Spark is more modern on the interior, but I like the Mirage exterior better, the Mirage has a softer ride, while the Spark is more on the sportier, power to weight ratio, I found both to be equal in terms of performance. The mirage is better equipped in base form for day-to-day convenience, next spring I plan on buying a 2023 Mirage in the base form, but as you said, the colors are limited and for 2023, you can get a base Mirage in any color you want, as long as its white!

[@stewchronic]

I have a black 2023 ES reserved so I think you might mean, you can only get the Base MT in white 🤍

[@oi32df]

@@stewchronic or grey

[@stewchronic]

@@oi32df correct, I've actually switched cars and I'm snagging a 2023 Manual in titanium grey now!

[@gkauto1959]

@@stewchronic I thought the last yr for the manual was 2022? never heard of a 2023 manual!

[@richardlewczykjr1022]

it has maybe 3hp less than a1930 Ford flathead v-8

[@deniecegetwell7505]

Can I drive and you do the 777 triathlon!! Walk,bike ,ride! Seriously loved your review!

[@coritrottman9699]

Its 2023, should i get a brand new one of this or a used civic for close to 25k. Im looking to run it for a decade

[@GrabASpriteB]

I wish theyd make a sport version of the car. Even a turbo would make a lot of difference performance-wise

[@gregnixon1296]

Great review on a car that gives you 100% heart.

[@hamiltonasseiro6671]

Great honest review. Thank you!

[@bachhunghoang]

I drove my friend's Attrage a few times, it's just a Mirage with sedan body, a good little car, gotta say, i have more confidence driving the Mirage at 120kph than the Yaris at 60kph, it has good pick up for inner city run, and nimble as well

[@caloyp4474]

its lightweight makes it one factor for fuel efficiency. as always, the lighter the car weights, the more gas you can save. its an economy car so theres nothing more to really expect. for as long as you get from point A to point B, thats already fine. this car is a sure winner than its competitor on the same category.. fair and square review by the way.

[@fadingbeleifs]

That's not the Mitsubishi head unit doing that, it's your phone doing that! On top of that, you can disable the beeping in the system settings menu.

[@drsysop]

2023 models all are CVT & no manual available.

[@kramer911]

My only concerns at this point are how it handles snow and highways. He said it can handle it but not the blizzards which is understandable. I've seen regular size cars do poorly in those. Highways.. I guess I'll just stay in the safe lane (if I even need to use highways). It would be my first car and I would happily show it off. Don;t care what people think. It's a price thing and the warranty covers 160k instead of 100k that nissan, hyundai etc offer.. so youd have that confidence in it. Right now its been so hard to get a hold of any rio, forte, elantras.. Been waiting for 6 months. I think people may pass by this one so its easier to actually go and pick it up right away.. (hopefully)

[@scrambler69-xk3kv]

Can you do a long term review of one with a cvt?

[@jeffmorse645]

My first car was a hand-me-down 1977 Toyota Celica from my parents. 5 speed and 90 HP in California trim to move 2560 lbs around. It was no faster than the current Mirage and it was my only car. I drove it from California to Iowa and back twice. No power windows or locks, no cruise control, only an am/fm radio. Very basic. The Mirage would seem luxurious by comparison. What I'm trying to say is today's buyers could get by with a lot less than they've grown accustom to.

[@Area-cf1gt]

I chose correctly lol as it will not be obsolete. Its boring cheap and good on fuel just what i need in these times. Zero regret 😁

[@RWM195]

Bear in mind that, statistically, fatalities are much higher in lighter, smaller cars like the Mitsubishi Mirage than in heavier, larger SUV’s, crossovers and trucks, which are the most popular vehicles today. In fact, nearly everything on the roads are going to be larger, heavier, and more substantial than the Mirage, which is going to directly affect your chances of surviving a major collision. Despite all of the appeal of the Mirage’s low-price and high-mileage, do not ignore the minimal protection and survivability that is offered to you by such a diminutive car. Price and mileage is important, but your life and those of your passengers should be your utmost priority, especially given the way other people out there drive.

[@noseboop4354]

Yes, your life is your highest priority, so buy a giant heavy SUV to be sure the other person you collide gets killed and not you.

[@kristianhermann5971]

Great review 👍

[@fadingbeleifs]

Manual windows in the rear? The American spec comes with power everything!

[@dennman6]

You mean the USA spec models. North America includes Canada, not just the United States.

[@mgray999]

Just got into a wreck with my Mazda 3 2012. I want to get this car but am on the fence. I'm not a speeder, but sometimes it's good to have speed to get out of the way.

[@kylemas2005]

The Mirage only weighs 2100 lbs. 78HP is plenty. Don't worry about it.

[@bobjohnson205]

It's got about the same HP to lb ratio as my '90 Volvo. So, you should be just fine! lol

[@bobjohnson205]

So, what model year is this MIrage?

[@dalipkhurana7348]

There are very few Canadian Car channels, mostly all are US. May his channel grow.

[@believe88]

have no regrets with this car

[@dadgarage7966]

Manufacturers are really gun shy about floor mats interfering with the pedals. That's why.

[@izzatfauzimustafa6535]

Too bad in other countries, you can't get this Mirage with manual transmission. You have to settle down with the CVT which doesn't help to deal the car's weak throttle response.

[@braetonwilson4296]

I wish the Mirage had the Corolla CVT with the physical first gear. Corolla's 169 horsepower would be nice too.

[@izzatfauzimustafa6535]

@@braetonwilson4296 That would mean Mitsubishi has to buy CVT from Toyota's transmission subsidiary instead of relying on the main supplier for Nissan & Mitsubishi's CVT.

[@braetonwilson4296]

@@izzatfauzimustafa6535 true

[@ronaldderooij1774]

@@braetonwilson4296 The Mirage has a two speed planetary automatic, kinda low/high gearing mounted before the CVT, to help with throttle response.

[@braetonwilson4296]

@@ronaldderooij1774 That's good to know, I wasn't aware of that.

[@1marcelfilms]

come back in 15 years for a proper long term review

[@KillinGroundz22]

"An honest car" really true 100% great review!

[@geordiegeorge9041]

I bought a Space Star, that's it's name in Germany in 2021. At 110 kmh on the autobahn it gets over 60 miles to the gallon, in the town over 50 miles to the gallon. You compare it to the Spark, the Chevrolet Spark did not do well in all tests in Europe. Electric and engine problems.

[@Lila_UrarakaYT]

I’m curious, how is the Mirage going up hills? I live in an area that has a lot of hills and am currently window shopping for cars for when it’s time for me to get a new car.

[@Dfm253]

You absolutely have to downshift with the manual, but it pulls itself along okay, if you actually cram 4-5 people in it you definitely feel the difference, and turning on the A/C is a notable drop as well. I ultimately loved my Mirage g4 though, it was totaled when I was rear ended on Tuesday, but I averaged 44.9 mpg over 36k miles with the 5 speed.

[@jesuscarrillo4344]

@@Dfm253 It's horrible up hill in a cvt. Most of them are sold with cvt because only the base model is sold with optional manual transmission. Putting just one person in the car or having the ac on if felt in a negative way with its 7X hp. You have to remember drive train loss so it would really make it a high 40s, low 50s hp car. I rolled down a hill in winter of 2020 with it starting from a dead stop mid way on the hill and there wasn't even any snow on the road. Every other car made it up just fine. I had to go back and find a different way back home.

[@edgaryzen4925]

It does fine honestly, and I'm not even exaggerating or sarcastic. Not quick as 1st place out of 8th but it gets there as 5th place.

[@kylemas2005]

@@jesuscarrillo4344 WTF? I drive my Mirage CVT in the mountains of Appalachia and never had an issue of not being able to get up a steep incline. Something might just be wrong with your car?

[@bobjohnson205]

If you go up a hill don't you eventually also have to go down it? So, because of that it should work out ok! lol

[@jeremy4192]

Great job man.

[@BrominatedVegetableOil]

I don't get the hate for this car. This car is not trying to fool anyone and is what it is. An affordable A-to-B car that does what you need it to comfortably and at a good price.

[@drivingca]

Mr Vegetable Oil here makes a good point

[@bobjohnson205]

@@drivingca You should mention the model year of the car that you are testing in your videos and in your descriptions.

[@ivanwashington3186]

i wonder how it handles wrinkled rutted bumpy pavement?

[@bobjohnson205]

One way to find out!

[@sherwinmacuja3035]

Long Press the center of the left knob to turn off the stereo.

[@daveellis5100]

Recorded horizontally😀👍

[@BMan100]

Tis as it states " AN CAR" with a Warranty.

[@rafaelmacedo6679]

Great review, and yes it is cheap and good! a commute car, people will compare it to a golf gti or a sentra sr 2022 and ..there is a 10k difference in price. I also like these little reliable cars, great honest review mate.

[@silkeotd7194]

Really great, informative review!

[@ernielaw]

The only car to compare the Mirage to would be the Nissan Micra, as they share the same dimensions. How do those 2 compare dollar for dollar?

[@drivingca]

Well they compare in that you can buy the Mirage new and they stopped selling the Micra in Canada in 2020. Other than that, Micra is the hot rod of the two and provides a quasi-sporty driving experience. Interiors are of about the same quality but fuel mileage is much better with the Mitsu.

[@chris-nq5nc]

I have a 2008 outlander it's been just as if not more reliable then my honda accord and odyssey and when the road conditions get hazardous in bad weather nothing compares to it

[@frankiebeans8055]

I just got a 2023 ES and I tinted all windows and put better hub caps on. It’s so funny everyone who drives one the car looks like it’s been through hell. It does it’s job and I like it. I call it my beep beep car. Lol

[@jason5523-r5m]

I have 2015 ES in the same color with 89k miles I bought new. It actually handles quite well, even more so when I put 185 width tires on it. I have had to absolute zero except maintenance, which is almost none. It doesn't burn a drop of oil even with me driving it 80+ on the highway. It sounds....kinda of good?? It sounds like a v6 and not buzzy. It has plenty of torque and I even from time to time outrun trucks 0-60 who are actively trying to outrun me. Even v8 ones. There really isn't anything you can buy in the price range that can beat it for reliability and ease of use. x2 on the snow, didn't even have snow tires and went for drive in the mountains.

[@ronaldderooij1774]

I also have a 2015 Mirage. Same experiences as you. Zero defects, zero rattles, zero oil consumption. And Mirages have counterrotating balance shafts. That is why it does not really sound like a 3 cylinder engine.

[@oi32df]

@@ronaldderooij1774 It's not a balance shaft that dictates the sound of an engine but rather its firing order and how the crankpins are offset, which must be 120 degrees here. Btw Mitsu was one of the first manufacturers to offer ''Silent Shaft balance shaft engine technology'' in their 4 cylinders 2.6L Dodge Challenger & Plymouth Sapporo ( Mitsu Galant/Lambda ) which minimized the inherent vibration of a large four cylinder in-line engine.

[@djkenny1202]

These are awesome as 5 speed manual with a heavily discounted price under $10,500.

[@brandinbell3920]

Thank you I just bought one got ripped off a little bit but thanks

[@leogeee1]

The best feature is it's reliability. The owners attest to this.

[@peterneumann8397]

nun, ich habe meinen kleinen Flitzer jetzt etwas über zwei Jahre und bin eigentlich sehr zufrieden und wenn das so bleibt ist doch alles ok !

[@michaeljh1247]

sorry.... did I hear him say its 6.2L/100km when pushing 120?? Bruh my Malibu gives me 12+ lmao 100% might buy this as a replacement daily this fall.

[@gregnixon1296]

He had to be mistaken. 6.2 liters/100 km is not much at all.

[@eugenelayhue1932]

I've been debating between the Mirage and the Spark . You said the Spark is a better car is it because the Spark has 4 cylinders is it because or that the Mirage only has 3 and less HP. But what about the warranty isn't the Mirage much better?

[@Dfm253]

The mirage has better warranty, and the mirage is designed for longevity, things like electric power steering, an actual timing chain (not a belt like most small cars) and tons of space to actually do your own repairs on the occasion they should be necessary, make the mirage much cheaper to own long term.

[@kylemas2005]

Spark is being discontinued because it wasn't as reliable with the JATCO CVT7, compared to the Mirage with the same CVT. GM Korea aka Daewoo, got tired of paying for warranty work and cvt replacements.

[@ronaldderooij1774]

@@kylemas2005 They should have equipped it with a transmission cooler. Like Mitsubishi does.

[@gregnixon1296]

@@kylemas2005 I have seen that the smallest cars in the US are being discontinued due to poor sales bc people want SUVs.

[@Doc1855]

What kind of condition will it be in at 100K miles?

[@LTLT900]

Excellent condition. Mines already done it and is ready for another easy 100,000 miles.

[@edman813]

I'm over 120k and I have had no problems with my 2017 MM.

[@slightlyaboveaveragebutaverage]

You can pick these things up for half the price of the toyota/honda equivalents with half the mileage as well on the used market.

[@buckgreatdane372]

Nice little car.

[@azeez8399]

Big Question: How safe is it in an accident?

[@bobjohnson205]

You mean collision. Right?

[@ClaudioProductionsX]

the same as every single city car on the market: 0 to 1 stars. Why? because that's the name, CITY CAR, designed for use IN CITY. I have yet to see a single city car that scores a 5 star rating in a crash test, and it makes sense, it's impossible to make a 5 star rating car without increasing the size that makes the car no longer fit the citycar category. It has 3 airbags, which should be enough to survive a city-speed level accident. If you're seeking high security ratings, then you must look into Hatchback cars rather than city cars.

[@bobjohnson1587]

@@ClaudioProductionsX The 2024 Mirage receives mostly a 'Good' rating - the highest - from both NHTSA & IIHS. It has a 'Marginal' rating from IIHS for the small overlap frontal crash. Overall it scores 4 out of 5 stars. Not bad for a "city car"! 😉

[@believe88]

any recommendations on parts to change at 50k mark? Arm bushing? So far mine has given no problems AT ALL but i will like to keep it tip top with early maintenance

[@aeidla]

"it doesnt matter if you cant find one and buy one" SO TRUE

[@hal511bm]

Very nice. Thank you.

[@drivingca]

You are welcome :)

[@investmentking4022]

In the USA the Mirage MSRP is basically the same howver is in US dollars making it more expensive. Because of that you can buy a versa in the usa which is a better cheap car for the same money. I get the hate but in Canada this cad is the best cheap car for the money.