Hoping to cash in on the ever-popular budget segment, Mitsubishi’s new Mirage hatchback promises South African consumers outstanding fuel efficiency, superb standard specification and affordability.
Currently in its sixth generation, the Mirage has enjoyed some success abroad. Accolades include being voted for and winning “Best All-round Performance Award” by the 2014 Automotive Science Group in North America and one of the “12 Greenest Cars of 2014” by Forbes Magazine.
“The Mitsubishi Brand is on a continuing renaissance in South Africa, and with the all-new Mirage we are opening our brand to a new buying audience who place affordability, quality and specification at the top of the buying decision.
“We know just how competitive the supermini segment is in South Africa and as such we have ensured that Mirage is aggressively priced to take the fight to more established marques in the segment,” says Wynand Pretorius, chief operations officer at Mitsubishi Motors South Africa.
The Mirage is possessed of rounded styling that helps contribute to increased aerodynamic efficiency, and comes fitted with 14- or 15-inch wheels (derivative dependent). It also comes in bright hues like Lemonade Yellow Metallic, Medium Blue Mica and Red Metallic. Standard specification includes five cupholders, dual front airbags, ABS with EBD, Isofix anchor points, air-con, radio/CD player with satellite controls on the steering wheel, electric windows, and a rear seat backrest that splits 60:40.
All derivatives are powered by a 1,2-litre, 3-cylinder engine that produces 57 kW at 6 000 r/min and 100 N.m of torque at 4 000 r/min. Torque is sent to the front wheels via a five-speed manual gearbox. Mitsubishi claims that the Mirage will average just 4,9 litres/100 km and emit only 115 g/km of CO2.
Pricing
Mirage 1,2 GL: R124 900
Mirage 1,2 GLX: R134 900
Mirage 1,2 GLS: R144 900
All Mirage models are backed by Mitsubishi’s 3-year/100 000 km warranty. Service intervals are set at every 15 000 km, and a 2-year/ 30 000 km service plan is included in the retail price. There’s also a free insurance plan for the first 12 months.
