A brighter Mirage

By Jason K. Ang March 01,2017
Mitsubishi has given the Mirage a more high-grade look.

Mitsubishi has given the Mirage a more high-grade look.

The Mirage will be the key model for Mitsubishi Motors Philippines Corp. (MMPC) as it enters the Philippine government’s Comprehensive Automotive Resurgence Strategy (CARS) program. The stakes are substantial, with the company investing P4.3 billion to set up the production line for the Mirage. The investment includes a new stamping shop facility
that required a P2-billion investment.

The CARS program will see Mitsubishi produce up to 200,000 units of the model within a six-year period. The company’s participation will generate direct jobs at the assembly plant. It will also generate business for the company’s numerous local suppliers.

Here are some features to look out for on the top-of-the-line Mitsubishi Mirage GLS:

Upscale look: Mitsubishi has given the Mirage a more high-grade look thanks to multiple trim improvements. The Mirage features a reshaped fascia with projector headlamps and a chrome grille. Mounted within the bumper is a conspicuous X-shaped metal trim piece for a bit of character. 15-inch aluminum alloy wheels round out the exterior appearance package.

Full-featured interior: As with the outside, Mitsubishi has added lots of shiny bits to the interior. Shiny new trim bits hug the door panels, gearshift, and instrument panel. Airconditioning system is now via automatic climate control. Seat fabrics have a more comfortable, softer feel.

Keyless start: You don’t need to take out the ignition key to start the Mirage’s efficient engine. The Mirage has a 1.2-liter inline-three cylinder, with 78 ps and 100 Nm. That’s enough for smooth city driving, even with four passengers on board the Mirage. The engine has been tuned to sound and feel smoother. Fuel mileage is around 10 km/liter in city traffic, with up to 25 km/liter on the highway.

The Mirage cockpit

The Mirage cockpit

Driving feel: Tipping the scales at just 850 kg, the Mirage feels zippy around town. The Mirage feels light on its tires. The handling is tight, given the car’s compact dimensions and small turning radius.

Standard equipment: The Mirage has a long list of available standard equipment, including bi-xenon HID projector headlamps.

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