2002 Mitsubishi Mirage 1.5

Summary:

A well-engineered car which I hope to keep for some years yet

Faults:

Reverse gear can be a bit hard to find, but never impossible. Dealer put different oil in, which helped a bit, as does selecting 1st gear prior to reverse.

One rear shocker groans a bit on hard bumps. Dealer 'wrapped' the coil springs, which helped.

Visors tend not to stay right up--worse in cold weather. Dealer replaced them once.

General Comments:

Very smooth, quiet and economical engine--17 kilometers per litre average.

Great load space with the rear seats down.

Suspension not the greatest, but it's a light car. Fitted Michelin tyres which have helped road-holding.

Rear seats have slots for headrests, but none are available from the dealer, so I bought 2nd hand Mitsubishi Magna ones which fitted straight in.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 1st August, 2006

2002 Mitsubishi Mirage CE hatchback 1.5L SOHC 4 cylinder

Summary:

Still superior quality and value for money

Faults:

Have been involved in a minor fender-bender, the damage was restricted to a paint-scraped and cracked bumper bar, slightly crimped bonnet and a slightly bowed-in radiator though the core was not shattered. As it turns out, replacement Mitsubishi parts are quite expensive (total repair costs were $3500 AUS).

General Comments:

The Mirage still retains its gutsy 1.5L SOHC engine which delivers excellent torque and performance. Rolling response from a standstill however is still only average.

The Mirage now has a driver's airbag as standard which is quite reassuring. Pity there is no airbag (s) for passengers.

Still the best manual gearchange in the industry in my opinion. It is light to use, is a great match for the engine's torque characteristics and helps exploit the engine's great punchiness to its maximum potential.

The build quality and feeling of solidity is as superb as ever. Top marks for excellent panel fit/finish and excellent standard of paintwork.

Excellent all round vision is afforded by the Mirage.

Great handling and sure-footedness on both sealed and unsealed roads.

Handling is further improved by the fitting of 14 inch tyres instead of the standard 13 inch tyres.

Service and support provided by Mitsubishi Australia I have found to be excellent.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 18th June, 2004