Mitsubishi Mirage research: recalls, reliability and buyer's guide
The Mirage was one of the least expensive new cars in America and one of the most fuel-efficient non-hybrids, rated up to about 43 mpg highway with the CVT. Its 1.2L three-cylinder (74 hp, then 78 hp from 2017) is slow and noisy on the highway, but running costs are low. The 2017 refresh added the Mirage G4 sedan and smartphone integration, and 2021 brought new front styling. U.S. sales ended with the 2024 model.
Model years covered: 2014–2024. Mitsubishi ended Mirage production in 2024; 2024 is the final U.S. model year, with remaining inventory sold into 2025. There are no 2025 or 2026 U.S. Mirages.
Last updated 2026-10-15.
Strengths
- Very low purchase price
- Excellent fuel economy
- Low running costs
- Easy to park
- Available manual transmission through 2023
- Smartphone integration 2017 and later
Things to know before you buy
- Slow acceleration and highway noise
- Basic interior materials
- Airbag recalls on 2014 2018
- No 2016 model year
- CVT only for 2024
- Discontinued in US after 2024
- Recall status should be checked by VIN
Generations
Generation 6 (2014–2024)
The sixth-generation Mirage (built in Thailand from 2012; U.S. 2014-2015 and 2017-2024) is a lightweight subcompact with a 1.2L three-cylinder. It launched with 74 hp; the 2017 refresh raised output to 78 hp, improved suspension and brakes, added the Mirage G4 sedan and available smartphone integration; a 2021 facelift restyled the front end. The manual was dropped for 2024.
Buyer takeaway: Best for budget-focused, mostly in-town drivers who value fuel economy over performance. Choose 2017 or later for more power and features, and confirm airbag recalls on 2014-2018 cars.
Mitsubishi Mirage by model year
2024 Mitsubishi Mirage
The 2024 Mirage is the last sold in the U.S.; Mitsubishi confirmed production would end in 2024, with inventory expected to sell through mid-2025. EPA data lists only the CVT for 2024 (about 36/43 mpg hatchback, 35/41 G4) with the 78-hp 1.2L three-cylinder. Mitsubishi dealers continue to service it.
- Engines: 1.2 liter three cylinder 78 hp
- Transmissions: CVT continuously variable
- Drivetrain: Front wheel drive
- Body style: 5 door hatchback; 4 door sedan mirage g4
What changed:
- Final US model year
- Manual transmission dropped CVT only
What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Body style and transmission by VIN; Driver assistance features if equipped; CVT smooth operation and noise; CVT fluid service records; Engine mounts and idle vibration; Suspension and tires; Brakes; Maintenance and oil change records.
2023 Mitsubishi Mirage
The 2023 Mirage hatchback and Mirage G4 sedan carry over the 2021 facelift with the 78-hp 1.2L three-cylinder and a 5-speed manual or CVT (about 36/43 mpg hatchback CVT, 35/41 G4). They remain among the least expensive new cars of their time. Check maintenance records and CVT behavior, and run the VIN for any open recalls.
- Engines: 1.2 liter three cylinder 78 hp
- Transmissions: 5 speed manual; CVT continuously variable
- Drivetrain: Front wheel drive
- Body style: 5 door hatchback; 4 door sedan mirage g4
What changed:
- Largely carryover from 2021
What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Body style and transmission by VIN; Driver assistance features if equipped; CVT smooth operation and noise; CVT fluid service records; Clutch engagement if manual; Engine mounts and idle vibration; Suspension and tires; Brakes; Maintenance and oil change records.
2022 Mitsubishi Mirage
The 2022 Mirage hatchback and Mirage G4 sedan carry over the 2021 facelift with the 78-hp 1.2L three-cylinder and a 5-speed manual or CVT (about 36/43 mpg hatchback CVT, 35/41 G4). They remain among the least expensive new cars of their time. Check maintenance records and CVT behavior, and run the VIN for any open recalls.
- Engines: 1.2 liter three cylinder 78 hp
- Transmissions: 5 speed manual; CVT continuously variable
- Drivetrain: Front wheel drive
- Body style: 5 door hatchback; 4 door sedan mirage g4
What changed:
- Largely carryover from 2021
What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Body style and transmission by VIN; Driver assistance features if equipped; CVT smooth operation and noise; CVT fluid service records; Clutch engagement if manual; Engine mounts and idle vibration; Suspension and tires; Brakes; Maintenance and oil change records.
2021 Mitsubishi Mirage
The 2021 Mirage received a second facelift with a restyled front end and updated equipment, while keeping the 78-hp 1.2L three-cylinder with a 5-speed manual or CVT (about 36/43 mpg hatchback CVT, 35/41 G4). Driver-assistance features vary by trim, so confirm equipment by window sticker or VIN.
- Engines: 1.2 liter three cylinder 78 hp
- Transmissions: 5 speed manual; CVT continuously variable
- Drivetrain: Front wheel drive
- Body style: 5 door hatchback; 4 door sedan mirage g4
What changed:
- Second facelift with restyled front end
- Updated equipment verify by trim
What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Body style and transmission by VIN; Driver assistance features if equipped; CVT smooth operation and noise; CVT fluid service records; Clutch engagement if manual; Engine mounts and idle vibration; Suspension and tires; Brakes; Maintenance and oil change records.
2020 Mitsubishi Mirage
The 2020 Mirage and Mirage G4 continue with a 78-hp 1.2L three-cylinder and a 5-speed manual or CVT, rated about 36/43 mpg (hatchback CVT) or 35/41 (G4 CVT). They suit buyers who want the lowest purchase price and excellent fuel economy and mainly drive in town. Test highway merging and listen for CVT whine during the drive.
- Engines: 1.2 liter three cylinder 78 hp
- Transmissions: 5 speed manual; CVT continuously variable
- Drivetrain: Front wheel drive
- Body style: 5 door hatchback; 4 door sedan mirage g4
What changed:
- Largely carryover
What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Body style and transmission by VIN; CVT smooth operation and noise; CVT fluid service records; Clutch engagement if manual; Engine mounts and idle vibration; Suspension and tires; Brakes; Maintenance and oil change records.
2019 Mitsubishi Mirage
The 2019 Mirage and Mirage G4 continue with a 78-hp 1.2L three-cylinder and a 5-speed manual or CVT, rated about 36/43 mpg (hatchback CVT) or 35/41 (G4 CVT). They suit buyers who want the lowest purchase price and excellent fuel economy and mainly drive in town. Test highway merging and listen for CVT whine during the drive.
- Engines: 1.2 liter three cylinder 78 hp
- Transmissions: 5 speed manual; CVT continuously variable
- Drivetrain: Front wheel drive
- Body style: 5 door hatchback; 4 door sedan mirage g4
What changed:
- Largely carryover
What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Body style and transmission by VIN; CVT smooth operation and noise; CVT fluid service records; Clutch engagement if manual; Engine mounts and idle vibration; Suspension and tires; Brakes; Maintenance and oil change records.
2018 Mitsubishi Mirage
The 2018 Mirage hatchback and Mirage G4 sedan carry over with a 78-hp 1.2L three-cylinder and a 5-speed manual or CVT (about 37/43 mpg hatchback CVT, 35/41 G4). They offer low running costs, but modest power and a noisy engine. Confirm the airbag ECU software recall for 2014-2018 hatchbacks and 2017-2018 G4s.
- Engines: 1.2 liter three cylinder 78 hp
- Transmissions: 5 speed manual; CVT continuously variable
- Drivetrain: Front wheel drive
- Body style: 5 door hatchback; 4 door sedan mirage g4
What changed:
- Largely carryover from 2017
What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Body style and transmission by VIN; Airbag ecu software recall completion; CVT smooth operation and noise; CVT fluid service records; Clutch engagement if manual; Engine mounts and idle vibration; Suspension and tires; Brakes; Maintenance and oil change records.
2017 Mitsubishi Mirage
The 2017 refresh gave the Mirage a new front end, LED daytime running lights, a slipperier shape, retuned suspension, better brakes and 78 hp. A new Mirage G4 sedan joined the hatchback, and a touchscreen with smartphone integration became available. The CVT hatchback is rated about 37/43 mpg (G4 about 35/42). Check airbag ECU and HID headlight recalls.
- Engines: 1.2 liter three cylinder 78 hp
- Transmissions: 5 speed manual; CVT continuously variable
- Drivetrain: Front wheel drive
- Body style: 5 door hatchback; 4 door sedan mirage g4
What changed:
- Refreshed front styling with LED daytime running lights
- Output rises to 78 hp
- Improved suspension and brakes
- New mirage g4 sedan
- Available touchscreen with apple carplay and android auto
What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Body style and transmission by VIN; Airbag ecu software recall completion; Hid headlight aim clip recall 2017; CVT smooth operation and noise; CVT fluid service records; Clutch engagement if manual; Engine mounts and idle vibration; Suspension and tires; Brakes; Maintenance and oil change records.
2015 Mitsubishi Mirage
The 2015 Mirage carries over the 74-hp 1.2L three-cylinder with a 5-speed manual or CVT (about 36/42 mpg CVT) in a five-door hatchback. Mitsubishi skipped the 2016 model year in the U.S., so the next Mirage is the refreshed 2017. Confirm the airbag ECU software and wiring-connector corrosion recalls are complete.
- Engines: 1.2 liter three cylinder 74 hp
- Transmissions: 5 speed manual; CVT continuously variable
- Drivetrain: Front wheel drive
- Body style: 5 door hatchback
What changed:
- Largely carryover from 2014
- Last year before the 2017 refresh no 2016 model year
What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Body style and transmission by VIN; Airbag ecu software recall completion; Airbag connector corrosion recall 2014 2015; CVT smooth operation and noise; CVT fluid service records; Clutch engagement if manual; Engine mounts and idle vibration; Suspension and tires; Brakes; Maintenance and oil change records.
2014 Mitsubishi Mirage
The 2014 Mirage brought the name back to the U.S. as a low-priced, lightweight five-door hatchback built in Thailand. A 74-hp 1.2L three-cylinder drives the front wheels through a 5-speed manual or CVT, rated about 36/42 mpg with the CVT. Acceleration is slow, but running costs are low. Several airbag-related recalls apply, so check the VIN.
- Engines: 1.2 liter three cylinder 74 hp
- Transmissions: 5 speed manual; CVT continuously variable
- Drivetrain: Front wheel drive
- Body style: 5 door hatchback
What changed:
- Mirage returns to the US as a subcompact hatchback
- 1.2 liter three cylinder engine
- Among the most fuel efficient non hybrids
What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Body style and transmission by VIN; Airbag ecu software recall completion; Airbag impact sensor and connector corrosion recalls; CVT smooth operation and noise; CVT fluid service records; Clutch engagement if manual; Engine mounts and idle vibration; Suspension and tires; Brakes; Maintenance and oil change records.
Known issues and what to check
- Airbag Control Unit Software Recall (2014-2018 Mirage, 2017-2018 G4) (2014–2018)
Recall 17V-686 (2014-2018 Mirage hatchback) and recall 19V-330 (2017-2018 Mirage G4) cover an airbag control unit whose acceleration sensor can mistake vibration from rough roads or a flat tire for a fault and disable the airbags. Dealers reprogram the unit free of charge.
What to do: Confirm the airbag software recall is complete before buying. - Airbag Sensor and Connector Corrosion Recalls (2014-2015) (2014–2015)
Certain early 2014 Mirages have an airbag impact sensor that can delay deployment (15V-594), and 2014-2015 Mirages are covered by recall 15V-815: water and road salt tracked in on shoes can corrode a wiring connector under the driver's footwell, possibly delaying frontal airbag deployment. Dealers inspect, replace corroded connectors and add a waterproof cover.
What to do: Confirm these recalls are complete on any 2014-2015 Mirage. - CVT Operation and Fluid Service (2014–2024)
Most Mirages use a CVT. Owners commonly note engine and CVT drone under acceleration, which is normal for this small engine, but whining, shudder, slipping or delayed engagement can signal wear. CVT fluid changes on Mitsubishi's schedule help longevity.
What to do: Test drive on the highway and ask for CVT fluid service records. - Low Power and Highway Driving Expectations (2014–2024)
With 74-78 hp from a 1.2L three-cylinder, the Mirage is one of the least powerful cars sold in the U.S. in its time. It is adequate in town but slow to merge and pass, especially loaded or uphill. This is a design trait, not a defect.
What to do: Include highway driving in the test drive to make sure the performance suits your needs. - HID Headlight Aim Clip Recall (2017) (2017)
Recall 16V-675 covers certain 2017 Mirages with HID headlights that may have been built without the horizontal adjustment lockout clips secured, which can let the headlight aim drift. Dealers secure the clips.
What to do: Confirm the recall on HID-equipped 2017 Mirages. - Hatchback, G4 Sedan and Model-Year Gaps (2014–2024)
The U.S. Mirage was sold for 2014-2015 and 2017-2024 (no 2016 model year). The Mirage G4 sedan arrived for 2017. Output is 74 hp for 2014-2015 and 78 hp from 2017. EPA lists only the CVT for 2024. Earlier Mirages (1985-2002) are unrelated, and the sedan is sold as the Attrage in some other markets.
What to do: Confirm body style, transmission and year before comparing prices or mpg.
Recalls
Recall applicability varies by model year, body style, production date and VIN. Check the VIN with NHTSA and Mitsubishi for open recalls, especially airbag-related recalls on 2014-2018 models.
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- Honda Fit
- Ford Fiesta
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Questions this guide answers
- Is this a Mirage hatchback or Mirage G4 sedan?
- Does this Mirage have a CVT or manual?
- Why is there no 2016 Mirage?
- What fuel economy does the Mirage get?
- Is the Mirage powerful enough for the highway?
- Are the airbag recalls done on this Mirage?
- What changed in the 2017 and 2021 Mirage?
- What should I inspect on a used Mirage?
- Is the Mirage still sold new?
- What similar cars should I consider?