2018 Mitsubishi Mirage

Pros: Affordable pricing with decent number of features for the money; impressive fuel economy; reasonably absorbent ride for a subcompact car; close-quarters maneuverability

Cons: Extremely high noise levels, especially from engine; sluggish acceleration; touchy brake-pedal action; uninspired handling

CG Says: The 2018 Mitsubishi Mirage gains an upgraded touchscreen control with standard Bluetooth and rearview camera for all models. The G4 sedan now has a standard trunk pass-through. The Mirage is a subcompact available in 4-door hatchback and sedan bodystyles. The current design was introduced to the American market last year. All Mirages are powered by a 78-horespower 1.2-liter 3-cylinder engine paired with a 5-speed manual or CVT automatic transmission. An audio system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility is available. The Mirage has been on the market for a few years in several worldwide markets, mostly emerging ones such as Thailand. Incidentally, Mitsubishi exports U.S.-spec Mirages from that country. Mirage is larger than the Chevrolet Spark, but smaller than the Ford Fiesta and Honda Fit. It is the only mass-market 4-door vehicle that is powered by a normally aspirated (no turbo or supercharger) 3-cylinder engine. Entry-level prices make Mirage an interesting proposition from a value standpoint, but its acceleration, cabin appointments, and overall dynamic refinement trail most subcompact competitors by a significant margin.