For its second model year, Mitsubishi’s subcompact sedan has improved technology, with an upgraded touchscreen display and smartphone integration. At $14,395, the sedan version of the Mirage remains one of the most affordable cars on sale in America.
The 2018 Mitsubishi Mirage G4 now features an upgraded seven-inch touchscreen display, used to display the rearview camera. Bluetooth audio streaming is supported through steering wheel switches. Android Auto and Apple CarPlay now provide full smartphone integration on SE trim (optional on ES.)
The Mirage G4 is a budget buy, with only two trim levels and transmissions to choose from. Both models are powered by a 78-horsepower, 1.2-liter three-cylinder engine generating 74 pound-feet of torque.
Base ES models are fitted with a five-speed manual transmission delivering 33 mpg city and 40 highway. It’s a $1,200 option to add the continuously variable automatic transmission to the ES, although it's fitted as standard to the SE. The CVT boosts economy to 35/41 city/highway, though it further diminishes the engine’s meager output.
As well as bargain basement prices, Mirage G4s receive comprehensive warranties. Owners get a five-year manufacturer warranty and roadside assistance policy, with a ten-year limited warranty on the powertrain.
For the money, the $14,395 ES is reasonably well equipped. Alongside its new touchscreen display and rear view camera, there’s a digital radio with steering wheel controls, air conditioning, keyless entry, and hill start assist.
Several SE-level specifications can be added to the ES as options. These include Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a CD/MP3 audio system and cruise control.
The $17,095 SE offers some welcome spec upgrades on the ES. These include a six-way adjustable driver’s seat (as opposed to the ES’s four-way), plus greater use of chrome and leather throughout the cabin. The 14-inch steel wheels on ES give way to more flattering 15-inch chrome alloys on SE models.
Some options are SE-exclusive. These include an auto-dimming rearview mirror, climate control, push button start and folding side-view mirrors. However, the $1,095 airdam package seems superfluous on a car that takes almost 13 seconds to hit 60 mph. Paying $395 for rear parking sensors also seems unnecessary, given the G4’s standard-fit reversing camera.
The Mirage G4 is a car we'd only recommend to someone that's desperate to purchase a brand-new vehicle or who needs the best fuel economy without resorting to a hybrid. Otherwise, it lacks the equipment, refinement, style, or driving enjoyment possessed by much of the competition.
