The 2021 Mitsubishi Mirage often faces harsh judgment, quickly dismissed as a bare-bones, entry-level vehicle. It’s true, the Mirage prioritizes affordability above all else, and in a market saturated with feature-rich SUVs and powerful trucks, it’s easy to overlook this humble hatchback. However, labeling the Mitsubishi Mirage as simply “bad” is an oversimplification. For a specific segment of car buyers, the Mirage isn’t just “good enough”—it’s actually a surprisingly smart and practical choice. Let’s delve into whether a Mitsubishi Mirage is a good car for you.
Understanding the Mitsubishi Mirage: Core Strengths
To understand if the Mitsubishi Mirage is a good car, it’s essential to appreciate its core strengths, which primarily revolve around value and practicality.
Unbeatable Price Point: The King of Affordability
The most compelling argument for the Mitsubishi Mirage is its exceptionally low entry price. As one of the most affordable new cars on the market in the United States, the Mirage makes car ownership accessible to a wider range of buyers. For those on a tight budget, particularly first-time car buyers or individuals needing basic transportation, the Mirage’s low price is a significant advantage. This affordability extends beyond the initial purchase price, impacting insurance costs and registration fees, making it a financially sensible option.
Exceptional Fuel Efficiency: Saving You Money at the Pump
In an era of fluctuating gas prices, fuel economy is a major concern for many drivers. The Mitsubishi Mirage excels in this area, boasting some of the best gas mileage figures for a non-hybrid vehicle. Its impressive MPG translates directly into savings at the gas pump, making it an incredibly economical car to operate daily. Whether you’re commuting in the city or taking longer highway trips, the Mirage’s fuel efficiency contributes to significant long-term cost savings.
Surprisingly Practical Hatchback Design
Despite its compact size, the Mitsubishi Mirage is surprisingly practical, especially in its hatchback configuration. The hatchback design offers a generous cargo area that can accommodate groceries, luggage, and everyday items. Its small footprint also makes it incredibly maneuverable and easy to park in crowded urban environments. For city dwellers or anyone navigating tight parking spaces regularly, the Mirage’s nimble handling and compact dimensions are a definite plus.
Warranty and Roadside Assistance: Added Peace of Mind
Mitsubishi backs the Mirage with an impressive warranty, including a 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty and 5-year/unlimited-mileage roadside assistance. This comprehensive coverage provides buyers with added peace of mind, knowing they are protected against potential mechanical issues and breakdowns. The strong warranty adds to the overall value proposition of the Mirage, particularly for budget-conscious buyers who prioritize reliability and long-term ownership costs.
Addressing the Criticisms: Understanding the Mirage’s Limitations
It’s crucial to acknowledge the criticisms leveled against the Mitsubishi Mirage to provide a balanced perspective on whether it’s a good car.
Modest Performance and Engine Power
The Mirage is powered by a small 1.2-liter three-cylinder engine, which produces modest horsepower. Acceleration is not its forte, and it can feel underpowered, especially when carrying passengers or tackling steep inclines. However, for its intended purpose as an economical city car, the engine provides adequate power for daily driving. It’s important to understand that the Mirage is not designed for spirited driving or performance enthusiasts; it’s built for efficiency and affordability.
Basic Features and Interior
To achieve its low price point, the Mitsubishi Mirage does make compromises in terms of features and interior refinement. While newer models offer features like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, the interior materials are basic, and sound insulation is minimal. However, it’s important to note that even the base models include essential features like forward collision mitigation, demonstrating a focus on safety even at the entry level. For buyers prioritizing essential functionality over luxury and premium features, the Mirage provides a functional and practical interior.
Who is the Mitsubishi Mirage a Good Car For?
The Mitsubishi Mirage is a good car for a specific type of buyer:
- Budget-conscious individuals: Those prioritizing the lowest possible purchase price and running costs.
- City dwellers: Drivers who need a small, maneuverable car for navigating urban environments and tight parking spaces.
- First-time car buyers: Individuals looking for an affordable and reliable entry point into car ownership.
- Those seeking fuel efficiency: Drivers who want to minimize their gas expenses and prioritize fuel economy.
The Mirage may not be suitable for:
- Performance enthusiasts: Drivers who prioritize power, acceleration, and sporty handling.
- Those needing a spacious family car: While adequate for small families, it’s not ideal for large families or those requiring significant passenger space regularly.
- Drivers seeking luxury and advanced features: The Mirage focuses on essential features and affordability, not luxury amenities.
Reaching a Verdict: Is the Mitsubishi Mirage a Good Car?
Ultimately, whether the Mitsubishi Mirage is a “good car” depends entirely on your individual needs and priorities. If you’re looking for a stylish, powerful, and feature-laden vehicle, the Mirage will likely fall short. However, if your primary concerns are affordability, fuel efficiency, practicality in a compact package, and a strong warranty, then the Mitsubishi Mirage is definitely worth considering.
It’s a car that excels at its intended purpose: providing reliable, economical, and accessible transportation. For budget-conscious buyers who understand its limitations and appreciate its strengths, the Mitsubishi Mirage is not just a “good” car—it’s a smart car. Before dismissing it, consider if its value proposition aligns with your needs and take a closer look at what this unassuming hatchback has to offer.
