2014 Mitsubishi Mirage Preview

Introduction

In recent years, Mitsubishi has discontinued several slow-selling nameplates, leaving the company with a lineup of compact Lancer models, Outlander, and Outlander Sport crossover SUVs, and an electric car called the i-MiEV. In the fall of 2013, however, a new model with an old name joins the lineup. The new 2014 Mitsubishi Mirage is a sub-compact 5-door hatchback that the automaker says will be "the most fuel-efficient non-hybrid gasoline vehicle available in America."

Exterior Features

In order to achieve the 2014 Mirage model's expected fuel-economy ratings of 37 mpg in the city, 44 mpg on the highway, and 40 mpg in combined driving (when equipped with the optional continuously variable transmission), the car is shaped and styled to achieve a 0.28 coefficient of drag, and to slip through the atmosphere as cleanly as possible.

Interior Features

When the 2014 Mitsubishi Mirage goes on sale, it will be offered in two levels of trim: DE and ES. Standard equipment for the Mirage DE includes power windows, power side mirrors, power door locks, remote keyless entry, tilt steering wheel, and an automatic climate control system. A standard 60/40 split-folding rear seat adds cargo and passenger carrying flexibility, and the new Mirage is equipped with a 4-speaker, 140-watt stereo, including a CD player and a USB port.

Optional Features

Choosing a 2014 Mirage ES adds 14-inch aluminum wheels, fog lights, cruise control, Bluetooth connectivity, and a FAST-Key passive entry system with push-button ignition. The Mirage ES also includes a leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob, as well as steering wheel controls for the stereo. In addition to the ES model's standard equipment, the new Mirage is offered with a navigation system, rear park-assist sensors, reversing camera, LED interior lighting, and exterior styling upgrades.

Under the Hood

Equipped with a 1.2-liter 3-cylinder engine, the 2014 Mirage provides 74 horsepower and 74 lb.-ft. of torque, delivered to the front wheels through a 5-speed manual gearbox. A continuously variable transmission (CVT) is optional, and includes a hill-start assist system. The Mirage is predicted to achieve its maximum fuel-economy ratings when equipped with the CVT.

Mitsubishi provides a generous 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty for the 2014 Mirage, combined with a 5-year/60,000-mile vehicle warranty with 24-hour roadside assistance.

Safety

Every 2014 Mirage offers 7 air bags, traction and stability control, and anti-lock brakes with brake assist. Rear park-assist sensors and a reversing camera are optional.

Technology

The new Mirage offers two technologies that are unusual for the sub-compact vehicle class. The first, which is included for all Mirage ES models, is its FAST-Key passive entry and push-button ignition system. The second is a navigation system.