Mitsubishi Mirage: The Future of an American Icon
The Mitsubishi Mirage has been a staple in the American automotive market for years. However, recent reports suggest that its days may be numbered. According to Automotive News, the Mirage will be dropped from Mitsubishi’s lineup in America by mid-decade. This move comes as the company plans to transition into a crossover-only brand in the country.
While Mitsubishi officials have not confirmed these reports, they have also not denied them. A spokesperson for the company stated that the Mirage is a vehicle that they still see as having a role in their portfolio at this time. This statement leaves room for speculation about the future of the Mirage in America.
Despite the uncertainty surrounding its future, the Mirage is still available for purchase and received updates for the 2024 model year. These updates include two new exterior colors and a revamped LE trim that now features automatic headlights, rain-sensing wipers, and a new armrest. These additions enhance the Mirage’s appeal and make it an even more attractive option for budget-conscious buyers.
Speaking of budget-consciousness, the Mirage has long been known for its affordability. While pricing for the 2024 model has not been announced, the 2023 Mirage starts at $16,245 before a $1,095 destination fee. However, it’s worth noting that a $150 tonneau cover and $160 Welcome Package are automatically applied in the configurator and cannot be removed. The Mirage G4 sedan, on the other hand, starts at $17,245 before the destination fee and only requires the $160 Welcome Package.
One of the reasons behind the Mirage’s affordability is its modest powertrain. The Mirage is equipped with a 1.2-liter three-cylinder engine that produces 78 horsepower and 74 lb-ft of torque. While these numbers may not be impressive on paper, they are sufficient for everyday driving. The engine is paired with a continuously variable transmission, which helps the Mirage achieve impressive fuel efficiency ratings of up to 36 mpg city, 43 mpg highway, and 39 mpg combined.
As the Mirage’s future hangs in the balance, Mitsubishi has also revealed a new crossover that could potentially replace the Outlander Sport. The recently unveiled Xforce is a compact SUV that is currently focused on ASEAN markets. It features a naturally aspirated 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 103 horsepower and 104 lb-ft of torque. While it remains to be seen if the Xforce will make its way to the American market, it showcases Mitsubishi’s commitment to expanding its crossover lineup.
In conclusion, the future of the Mitsubishi Mirage in America remains uncertain. While reports suggest that it will be dropped from the lineup by mid-decade, Mitsubishi has not confirmed these claims. For now, the Mirage is still available for purchase and offers an affordable option for budget-conscious buyers. With its recent updates and impressive fuel efficiency, the Mirage continues to be a viable choice in the subcompact car segment. As Mitsubishi transitions into a crossover-only brand in America, it will be interesting to see how the Mirage fits into their overall strategy. Only time will tell what lies ahead for this American icon.