1997 Mitsubishi Mirage

Overview

The 1997 Mirage was has been redesgined as a line of small cars. Solid, well built and comfortable and with a long driving life.

Walkaround

The 1997 generation of Mirage is bigger in depth, width, height, and much roomier than previous models. It is quieter, with better a powertrain, an improved chassis and suspension system.

We think Mistubishi struck an attractive and effective balance with the new external design. Smooth but traditional lines of the coupe and sedan are well designed to give a lasting classic appeal over time so it won't look dated next year, or the year after.

The boot and taillights are squared off to give a slightly sporty look, enhanced with a tall spolier on the coupe. However the spoiler can impede the rearview mirror because it cuts across the middle of the field of vision.

The sedan wheelbase is three inches longer which provides extra rear legroom, and both the new models are larger inside than previous models.

Overall the profile starts with a low nose and swoops up towards a high deck which is common among the more sophisticated models. This wedge shape helps to stabilise the car at higher speeds, and boosts fuel economy since it guides the air over the car.

The Mirage isn't bad at fuel economy and you can expect high 30 something mpg if you choose the engine/transmission combination wisely. The economy drops a little with the optional 1.8 litre engine and automatic transmission dents the efficiency a little more. However for its class the Mirage is near the top.

Interior Features

The interior layout has been intuitively designed and you seem to be able to find and use any controls or adjusters with ease. The seats are comfortable and support the body naturally, with the drivers side seat height adjustable as well, which is surprising for a car at this level of entry in the market.

The roof pillars are slim and the windscreen provides surpurb vision in all directions and gives a very open and light feel to the interior.

Mitusbishi has spent some time on developing the interior furnishings and the selections of fabrics and colours give a pleasing and durable feeling of quality. There are even sun visor extensions to block the smaller leaks which always seem to leak into the rear view mirror - something only normally found on more expensive cars.

As well as coordinated furnishings noise levels have been dampened in side the cabin. The Mirage is very quiet for a car of its size and is another sign that Mitsubishi has spent time on making a quality offering. Wind and road noise are minimal.

The Mirage has a choice of sound systems ranging from basic radios to radio/cassette or radio/cd combos. Each of these systems which were sampled proved more than adequate and were easy to operate.

The environmental controls were also easy to find and use, along with the other dash functions.

Onto option packages. We suggest you choose your options carefully if cost is a major issue for you, as the Mirage packages offer a good range but at a price.

Some specific items which add significantly to the usability of the Mirage are the tilt steering wheel, the 60/40 split-folding rear seatback (to expand cargo capacity), and power door locks. All of these items are part of an option group that also includes power windows and remote adjusting mirrors.

Driving Impressions

Option-wise the 1.8-liter engine definitely makes a positive difference. The standard, economical but somewhat weak, single overhead cam 12-valve 1.5-liter engine powers the DE coupe and sedan, but the twin cam 16-valve 1.8-liter is standard for LS models and it gives the Mirage a decent drive, especially with the standard five-speed manual transmission.

The optional four-speed automatic transmission for the Mirage is very good, enhanced by Mitsubishi's Adaptive Transmission Control Management (ACTM) system. The ACTM's computer control actually learns driver habits and adjusts the transmission's shift points to obtain optimal performance.

The basic Mirage is nimble, but responses can be further enhanced with the Mitsubishi Value Package. This includes a larger diameter wheel set and tires creating more contact with the road and provides better grip.

The Value Pack also includes air conditioning, floor mats and better sound system components.

While the Mirage basically holds its own in terms of handling compared to some very good competition, it's distinctly above average in terms of ride quality.

Like the handling, this is a benefit of an exceptionally good job by the Mitsubishi chassis engineers. The extensively stiffened platform gave the suspension team plenty of latitude for tuning, and they chose a supple setup that sops up small bumps and potholes without sacrificing a firm sense of control.

Summary

Although an entry level car the Mirage is an appealing blend of stylish design, quality features and great handling - certainly much more than a basic vehicle.

It's pleasant to drive, nicely styled in and out, well assembled and an excellent value.

Engines: 113-hp 1.8-liter sohc 16v 4-cyl.
Transmissions: 4-speed automatic
Safety equipment (standard): Dual airbags
Safety equipment (optional): N/A

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