2022 Mitsubishi Mirage: A Detailed Overview
The 2022 Mitsubishi Mirage continues its legacy as an affordable and fuel-efficient subcompact car, aiming to provide practical and economical transportation. While it prioritizes value, it also offers a surprisingly well-equipped package for its segment.
Highlights
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Engine and Performance: The Mirage is powered by a 1.2-liter three-cylinder engine. This powertrain delivers 78 horsepower and 74 lb-ft of torque. While not designed for spirited driving, it is incredibly fuel-efficient, achieving an EPA-estimated 36 MPG city / 43 MPG highway / 39 MPG combined (with the Continuously Variable Transmission - CVT). This makes it an excellent choice for city commuting and minimizing fuel costs. It comes standard with a 5-speed manual transmission, with an optional CVT available.
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Safety Features: Mitsubishi has equipped the 2022 Mirage with a commendable suite of standard safety features for its class. These include:
- Forward Collision Mitigation (FCM): This system uses radar and camera technology to detect vehicles and pedestrians ahead. If a potential frontal collision is imminent, it can automatically apply the brakes to help mitigate or avoid the impact.
- Lane Departure Warning (LDW): This feature monitors your vehicle's position within its lane. If it senses an unintentional drift out of the lane without the turn signal activated, it provides an audible and visual alert to prompt you to correct your steering.
- Automatic High Beams: This system automatically switches between high and low beams based on the presence of other vehicles' headlights or taillights, enhancing nighttime visibility without blinding other drivers.
- Other standard safety features include a rearview camera and a comprehensive airbag system.
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Trims: The 2022 Mirage is offered in three distinct trim levels, each building upon the previous one:
- ES: The base model offers essential comfort and convenience features, including power windows, power door locks, and a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility.
- LE: This mid-level trim adds a touch of style with unique alloy wheels and some exterior enhancements. It also often includes features like a rear spoiler for a sportier look.
- GT: The top-tier GT trim elevates the Mirage with a more premium feel. It typically includes features like heated front seats, push-button start with keyless entry, and advanced safety features like blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert (depending on specific market configurations).
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Other Notable Aspects:
- Tight Turning Radius: The Mirage boasts an impressively small turning radius, making it exceptionally agile and easy to maneuver in tight urban environments and crowded parking lots.
- Hatchback Versatility: The hatchback body style provides surprising cargo space for its compact size, especially with the rear seats folded down, making it practical for carrying groceries, luggage, or small items.
- Excellent Warranty: Mitsubishi offers one of the best warranties in the industry, including a 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain limited warranty and a 5-year/60,000-mile basic limited warranty, offering long-term peace of mind.
What to Expect
Owning a 2022 Mitsubishi Mirage typically involves a straightforward and economical ownership experience. The emphasis is on keeping running costs low.
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Maintenance: Due to its simple and robust engineering, the Mirage generally requires routine maintenance, such as oil changes, tire rotations, and filter replacements. The 1.2-liter engine is known for its reliability, and parts are typically affordable. Mitsubishi's extensive warranty coverage also contributes to predictable maintenance expenses in the initial years.
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Insurance: As a subcompact car with a focus on affordability, the Mirage usually falls into lower insurance premium brackets. Its lower value and generally good safety ratings contribute to this. However, individual insurance costs will vary based on your driving record, location, and chosen insurance provider.
Potential Considerations
While the Mirage excels in affordability and fuel efficiency, buyers should be aware of certain aspects:
- Engine Power: The 78 horsepower engine is underpowered for highway merging or spirited acceleration. Drivers who frequently travel at higher speeds or require quick acceleration will find the Mirage lacking in performance.
- Interior Materials and Refinement: To achieve its affordable price point, the Mirage's interior features harder plastics and a more utilitarian design. While functional, it doesn't offer the same level of premium feel or sound insulation found in more expensive vehicles.
- Ride Comfort: The suspension is tuned for fuel efficiency, which can sometimes result in a firmer ride over rougher road surfaces. Road noise can also be more pronounced at higher speeds.
Overall Summary
The 2022 Mitsubishi Mirage is a pragmatic choice for budget-conscious buyers prioritizing excellent fuel economy, low running costs, and a comprehensive warranty. It offers a surprisingly generous list of standard safety and infotainment features, making it a well-equipped entry-level vehicle. While its performance is modest and its interior is basic, its agility in urban environments and its overall value proposition make it a compelling option for those seeking simple, reliable, and inexpensive transportation.