Mitsubishi Mirage vs rivals

In recent years, Mitsubishi has been virtually invisible in the small car market in this country, but there’s a new offering on the horizon: the Mirage.

It’s an all-new budget supermini, which the company hopes will deliver more sales success than the Smart ForFour-based Colt it replaces. Built in Thailand, the newcomer is aimed at emerging markets, but with new three-cylinder petrol engines, its focus on low emissions should appeal to UK buyers. There’s a choice of 1.0 or 1.2-litre versions with prices from just £8,999, although we test the 1.2-litre in £11,999 range-topping 3 trim.

At this price, there’s no shortage of great affordable cars on the market – not least the reigning Auto Express Car of the Year, the Skoda Citigo. The Suzuki Swift is an established and very accomplished small supermini, too. So is the Mirage a real contender or just an illusion?

Verdict

Mitsubishi has taken a fresh approach to its small car line-up, with a focus on value and low emissions. Every model in the new Mirage range emits 100g/km or less of CO2, and the company’s £1,000 launch discount ensures the car is competitively priced – especially when you look at how well equipped our Mirage 3 test model is.

However, it isn’t all good news, as the newcomer falls considerably short of its rivals in terms of interior quality, ride comfort and refinement. Vague steering and sub-standard handling further upset the experience from behind the wheel.

So when up against a city car benchmark like the Skoda Citigo or a fun and well built compact supermini like the Swift, the Mirage finishes third. Picking a winner is tougher, but the Skoda has the edge on account of its long list of strengths and low running costs.