Although the Mitsubishi Mirage had a rough start in North America with a couple of scathing reviews pointing out its fundamental economy car flaws, the next generation Mirage is poised to make a strong comeback. According to Auto Express on their latest update on the supermini earlier yesterday (Nov. 7, 2017) Mitsubishi is looking to its partnership with Renault/Nissan to provide a suitable replacement for its smallest offering in the United States. Take a look at some of the latest shots of the Mirage after a much needed mid-cycle refresh below.

Mirage
2017 Mitsubishi Mirage
Mirage
2017 Mitsubishi Mirage
Mirage
2017 Mitsubishi Mirage

Mirage sales were slow goings at the start of its reintroduction into the United States market back in September of 2013, but sales have since picked up and hovered around a steady 1700+ units a month, taking small bites from that compact car pie. With an MSRP of just $13,395, it is one of the most affordable options for new car buyers who want something with 5 seats. Not to mention a combined 39 MPG made the Mirage quite the value for the price.

But for Americans tastes, the Mirage was always a bit anemic. Under the hood, the Mirage had a 1.2 L NA engine pushing out 78 HP and 74 lb-ft, which partly explains the great fuel economy. Compare that to the turbo 3 cylinder in the Fiesta with a competitive 123 HP and 125 lb-ft. Pair the Mirage engine to a CVT, and acceleration was slow going. Handling was described as subpar and the ride quality, harsh.

As far as handling goes, all that could change for MY 2019. The Mirage, at least underneath, will benefit from a much livelier chassis in the Renault Clio. Top Gear described the Renaults handling in terms of superminis as a “return to greatness.”

This steers keenly, doesn’t fall into understeer and lets you feel what the back wheels are up to near the limit. It’s all nicely interactive and although the body does also roll a bit too, the pay-off here is soft and supple suspension, another old-style Renault trait that’s most welcome.

If the Mirage’s second generation in the modern era (or its seventh generation overall) comes out swinging with a competitive engine and a better chassis, Ford’s Fiesta might have some serious competition from this Japanese brand trying to rise from its ashes.

I’m rooting for a better Mirage. Priced right and with an improved driving experience, it could be a Fiesta slayer.

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