If you’re in the market for a Mitsubishi Mirage, there’s plenty of model years to pick from. Having been around in various markets since 1978, if you’re wanting a great used model, there’s no better time to get one. We’ll be taking a look at some generations, and what makes them different.
Key takeaways
- The Mirage was discontinued in 2024, but before it was, they added some great features to the most recent generation.
- The sixth generation can get 39 mpg.
- If you want something rare, look for a 1999 DE. Less than 5000 were made, with even fewer being exported.
Third Generation (1987-1990)
Hitting the roads in 1989, this generation lasted a few years, with sales going until 1992. The Mirage comes with a 1.6L I4 that could produce 135 horsepower. While this isn't a lot by today’s standards, it was great at one point.
During this generation, the GS sedan came with a 1.6L engine that produced 123 horsepower. This was paired to a four-speed automatic transmission.
Fourth Generation (1991-1994)
While this generation was being produced in other markets before its North American debut, it had some time to trial and error. Hitting North American roads in 1993, all models from this generation came from Japan. If you find a coupe or four-window sedan from this era, you can look for the S, ES, and LS trims.
Five-speed manual transmissions were standard, while an automatic was an optional feature for most models. The base S model comes with a 1.5L engine that is a carryover from the generation before, but the ES, and LS sedans now come with a 1.8L engine that produces 113 horsepower.
In 1994, the coupe gained the 1.8L engine, and this marked the last year for the sedan models. This is due to the moving towards fleet sales.
Fifth Generation (1995-2002)
The Mirage hit the North American roads in 1997, both in sedan and coupe versions. The 1.5L returns once again, this time it’s on the DE and LS trims. Starting with model year 1998, a new, stronger battery and starter were added.
In 2000, some new standard features were added. These were the 1.8L as the standard engine for the DE sedan. In 2001, the DE was renamed to the ES. In 2002, the sedans were replaced with the coupes hanging around for a bit longer. If you manage to find a 1999 DE, this will be a rare find. Only 4,783 units were made, with 3,829 of them being exported.
Sixth Generation (2012-2024)
After going through a decade-long hiatus, the Mirage is back. This model comes with a 1.2L three-cylinder engine that is paired to a five-speed manual, or a CVT. This engine had an EPA rated 39 MPG combined.
This generation saw a few facelifts, the first one had better drag, and increased horsepower for the engine. Now sitting at 78 horsepower. The suspension has also improved through better shock absorbers, revised spring rates, and upgraded brakes.
In 2019, the second facelift happened. This came with a new front end styling that allowed for a collision avoidance system to be added. The interior was also updated, and all models come with the new touchscreen audio system. Despite their best efforts, they just couldn’t capture the American market, and was ultimately discontinued.
Final Thoughts
With new and more modern options to pick from, you can get a decent vehicle, at a great price, but only with us here at Scarpa Motors. Come on down, and see us today!