Mitsubishi Mirage
Used Car Review

Overview

Looking for the most affordable new car on the market? The Mitsubishi Mirage might be exactly what your wallet needs. This ultra-budget city car puts value above all else, offering brand new car ownership at used car prices. It’s designed for first-time buyers, students, or anyone who needs reliable transport without breaking the bank.

The Mirage makes no apologies for being basic. While rivals like the Ford Fiesta or Hyundai i20 focus on refinement and features, the Mirage focuses purely on getting you from A to B cheaply. The exterior styling is simple and inoffensive, with clean lines that won’t offend anyone. Inside, you’ll find a no-nonsense cabin that prioritises function over form.

What the Mirage lacks in sophistication, it makes up for in practicality and running costs. The tiny three-cylinder engine sips fuel like a hummingbird, making it incredibly cheap to run. It’s the perfect car for city commuting, parking in tight spaces, and keeping your monthly expenses low. While it won’t win any awards for excitement or luxury, it delivers exactly what it promises: affordable, reliable transport that does the job without fuss.

What's the Mitsubishi Mirage Like to Drive?

The Mitsubishi Mirage is powered by a 1.2-litre three-cylinder petrol engine producing just 80 horsepower. This makes it one of the least powerful cars you can buy new today. The 0-60 mph time of around 12 seconds means you’ll need patience when joining motorways or overtaking. However, in city traffic where speeds rarely exceed 30 mph, the engine feels perfectly adequate.

The lightweight construction helps the Mirage feel more nimble than the power figures suggest. The steering is light and easy, making parking effortless even in the tightest spaces. The suspension is soft, which means a comfortable ride over most road surfaces, though it can feel bouncy on uneven roads. The CVT automatic transmission is smooth but can be noisy under acceleration. For urban driving in this compact hatchback, the Mirage delivers a surprisingly pleasant experience despite its modest performance credentials.

How Comfortable Is the Mitsubishi Mirage?

Step inside the Mirage and the budget price becomes immediately apparent. Hard plastic dominates every surface, and the cabin design is refreshingly simple. The dashboard layout is straightforward with large, easy-to-read dials and a basic infotainment screen. While the materials feel cheap, they’re well-fitted and everything operates with solid precision. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto come standard, which is impressive at this price point.

The front seats offer reasonable comfort for shorter journeys, though longer trips may leave you wanting more support. Road noise is noticeable at motorway speeds, but around town the cabin remains pleasantly quiet. The air conditioning works effectively, and there are enough storage cubbyholes for your daily essentials. While it’s basic compared to more expensive cars, the Mirage’s interior serves its purpose well and includes the modern conveniences you actually need.

The Mitsubishi Mirage succeeds by knowing exactly what it is: the cheapest way to buy a reliable new car. It doesn’t pretend to be sophisticated or exciting, instead focusing purely on providing affordable, dependable transport. The build quality is honest rather than impressive, but everything works as intended and should continue doing so for many years.

Nicholas Zapolski Car Expert

Is the Mitsubishi Mirage Expensive to Run?

This is where the Mirage truly shines. The official fuel economy figure of over 50 mpg is easily achievable in real world driving, with many owners reporting even better figures in city use. Insurance groups are among the lowest available, making it especially attractive for young drivers. The initial purchase price is the Mirage’s biggest selling point, often costing thousands less than competitors.

Maintenance costs are refreshingly low thanks to the simple engineering and Mitsubishi’s reliable reputation. The three-cylinder engine has fewer moving parts than conventional four-cylinder units, potentially reducing long-term maintenance needs. While car finance options are available, many buyers can afford to purchase outright. The strong warranty coverage provides additional peace of mind. For buyers prioritizing low running costs above all else, the Mirage delivers exceptional value that’s hard to match in the new car market.

Mitsubishi Mirage Practicality & Boot Space

For such a small car, the Mirage makes good use of its compact dimensions. The 235-litre boot is adequate for weekly shopping or a few bags, though it’s smaller than many rivals. The rear seats fold down to expand cargo space when needed. Inside, you’ll find reasonable storage for phones, drinks, and other small items, though don’t expect the clever packaging of more expensive cars.

The back seats are best suited for children or short journeys with adult passengers. Legroom is tight and headroom is adequate but not generous. For a young couple or small family making occasional longer trips, the Mirage works well. Its tiny footprint makes it perfect for city living, slotting into parking spaces that larger cars can’t manage. When comparing with other used Mitsubishi cars, the Mirage prioritises affordability over space, making it ideal for buyers who value low costs over maximum practicality.

The Mitsubishi Mirage stands apart in the new car market by offering genuine affordability without the complexity of modern automotive design. It strips away unnecessary features and focuses on the essentials: reliable transport, excellent fuel economy, and a price that won’t stretch your budget. While it may not impress with power or luxury, it excels in the areas that matter most to budget-conscious buyers.

You choose the Mirage because you prioritise value above all else. It’s perfectly suited for urban commuting, first-time ownership, or anyone who needs dependable transport without monthly payments that cause sleepless nights. If you’re looking for the most affordable way into new car ownership, with cars under £15,000 being increasingly rare, the Mirage represents exceptional value that’s becoming harder to find elsewhere.