The Mitsubishi Mirage, a subcompact hatchback, has carved a niche for itself as an incredibly fuel-efficient and budget-friendly option. However, like any vehicle, certain model years stand out for their reliability and features, while others have faced more challenges. Knowing which years to prioritize and which to avoid can save you significant money and headaches in the long run.
Mitsubishi Mirage: Model Year Overview
| Model Year | Key Features/Highlights | Potential Issues/Concerns |
|---|---|---|
| 2014 | First year of the redesigned Mirage, excellent fuel economy, low price point. | Engine noise, slow acceleration, basic interior materials, some reports of CVT transmission issues. |
| 2015 | Minor improvements over 2014, continued focus on fuel efficiency. | Continued reports of slow acceleration and CVT transmission concerns. |
| 2017 | Significant facelift: improved styling, more powerful engine (minor increase), updated suspension, added features like Apple CarPlay/Android Auto (optional). | Improved but still not powerful, some reports of premature brake wear. |
| 2018 | Few changes from 2017, continued availability of Apple CarPlay/Android Auto. | Similar concerns as 2017. |
| 2019 | New ES trim level added, offering more standard features. | No major changes or improvements. |
| 2020 | Minor styling updates, standard automatic climate control on most trims. | No significant new issues reported. |
| 2021 | Android Auto and Apple CarPlay became standard across all trims, updated front-end styling. | Generally reliable, but still lacks power. |
| 2022 | Minor updates, continues the trend of improved features and styling. | Reliability solid, but performance remains a weak point. |
| 2023 | No major changes from 2022. | Similar performance limitations. |
| 2024 | Continues the trend of incremental improvements and feature additions. | Relatively new, so long-term reliability data is still emerging. |
Detailed Explanations
2014: This marked the reintroduction of the Mirage to the US market after a hiatus. It was designed for affordability and fuel efficiency above all else. However, this came at the cost of performance and refinement. The engine, while economical, was underpowered, and the interior materials were basic. Early models also had reports of unusual noises from the engine.
2015: The 2015 Mirage was largely a carryover from 2014. Mitsubishi addressed some minor concerns, but the core issues remained. Slow acceleration was a common complaint, and some owners experienced issues with the continuously variable transmission (CVT), which is designed for fuel economy but can feel sluggish.
2017: This year brought a significant refresh to the Mirage. The exterior styling was updated, giving the car a more modern appearance. More importantly, the engine received a slight power bump, although it remained relatively underpowered. The suspension was also tweaked for improved handling. A particularly important addition was the availability of Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, making the infotainment system much more user-friendly. This is arguably the best value year for a used Mirage.
2018: The 2018 Mirage saw few changes from the 2017 model. It continued to offer the updated styling, slightly more powerful engine, and available Apple CarPlay/Android Auto. Reliability remained generally good, but the performance limitations remained a factor.
2019: Mitsubishi introduced a new ES trim level for the 2019 Mirage. This trim offered more standard features, making it a more appealing option for buyers looking for added convenience without breaking the bank. However, mechanically, the car remained largely unchanged.
2020: The 2020 Mirage received minor styling updates and made automatic climate control standard on most trim levels. These small improvements added to the car's overall appeal, but the fundamental performance characteristics remained the same.
2021: Android Auto and Apple CarPlay became standard across the entire Mirage lineup in 2021, a welcome addition for tech-savvy buyers. The front-end styling was also updated, giving the car a more contemporary look. This year represents a good balance of features and reliability.
2022: The 2022 Mirage continued the trend of incremental improvements and feature additions. While no major changes were implemented, the car remained a reliable and fuel-efficient option in the subcompact segment.
2023: The 2023 Mirage was essentially a carryover from the 2022 model year. It offered the same features, styling, and performance characteristics. This makes it a solid choice if you’re looking for a recent model without a significant price premium.
2024: The 2024 Mirage is the latest model year currently available. It continues the trend of gradual improvements and feature enhancements. As a newer model, long-term reliability data is still emerging, but initial reports suggest it continues the Mirage's reputation for dependability.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which Mitsubishi Mirage year is the most reliable? The 2021 and newer models are generally considered the most reliable due to incremental improvements and feature enhancements over time.
Are Mitsubishi Mirages expensive to maintain? No, Mitsubishi Mirages are known for being inexpensive to maintain, with relatively low repair costs and good fuel economy.
What are the common problems with Mitsubishi Mirages? Common issues include slow acceleration, premature brake wear, and, in earlier models, potential CVT transmission problems.
Is the Mitsubishi Mirage good for long trips? While fuel-efficient, the Mirage's small size and limited power make it less comfortable for long trips compared to larger vehicles.
Does the Mitsubishi Mirage have good resale value? The Mitsubishi Mirage typically has lower resale value compared to some other subcompact cars.
Is the Mitsubishi Mirage safe? The Mirage has received mixed safety ratings depending on the year. Check the IIHS and NHTSA ratings for specific model years.
Does the Mitsubishi Mirage have a good warranty? Yes, Mitsubishi offers a competitive warranty, often including a 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty. However, be sure to check the specific terms and conditions, as it may be limited to the original owner.
Conclusion
While the Mitsubishi Mirage isn't a powerhouse in terms of performance, its affordability and fuel efficiency make it a compelling option for budget-conscious buyers. The 2017 and newer models, particularly the 2021 onward, offer the best balance of features, reliability, and updated styling. Be aware of the limitations of earlier models and prioritize those with Apple CarPlay/Android Auto for a more enjoyable driving experience.