Mitsubishi Mirage seen again

Several generations down the track to the cars that were once built in Australia, the new Mirage comes Down Under in January 2013.

Mirage is being previewed at the Australian International Motor Show. It’s only a small car but we love the look of it and Mirage seems sure to appeal to those looking for a cheeky car that works efficiently.

Using a cleverly styled body that minimises the space taken up by the engine and gearbox, this 3.7-metre long Mitsubishi provides good seating for four adults, with room for three children across the rear seat.

The upmarket Mirage LS comes with features usually found in larger cars; automatic lights, rain-sensing wipers, a keyless operating system and climate-control air-conditioning. Externally the LS has 15-inch alloy wheels, front foglamps, a roof spoiler. The door sash blackouts add street presence.

Mirage is powered by a three-cylinder 1.2-litre engine that produces up to 57 kW of power. Maximum torque of 100 Nm is at a relatively high 4000 rpm, but looking at the torque graph it seems the engine should perform neatly at revs from about 2000 upwards. The Mirage’s engine is mated to either a five-speed manual or continuously variable automatic transmission.

Mirage is equipped with a range of safety systems, including ABS with Electronic Brakeforce Distribution and Active Stability Control. Should you still manage to crash after all that, there are six airbags. Child seat installations are by three tether anchors, two Iso-Fix child seats can be used.

Though we have been allowed to look the new little Mitsubishi over inside and out, at this time we haven’t been able to drive it. We anticipate doing so early in 2013 and will publish our findings immediately afterwards. Prices will be announced closer to the on-sale date.