In a world dominated by SUVs and trucks, the 2022 Mitsubishi Mirage continues to hold its ground as one of the most affordable and fuel-efficient subcompact cars available. For budget-conscious buyers, students, first-time drivers, or city commuters, the Mirage offers a 2022 mitsubishi mirage proposition that’s hard to ignore.
This in-depth 2,500+ word article dives into everything you need to know about the 2022 Mitsubishi Mirage — from its design and performance to pricing, features, trims, fuel economy, safety ratings, pros and cons, and overall verdict. If you’re considering buying this small hatchback or just curious about what it has to offer, read on.
Table of Contents
- Overview of the 2022 Mitsubishi Mirage
- Design and Exterior Styling
- Interior Features and Comfort
- Performance and Engine Specifications
- Fuel Economy and MPG
- Trim Levels and Features
- Technology and Infotainment
- Safety Features and Ratings
- Pricing and Value
- Pros and Cons of the 2022 Mirage
- Comparison with Competitors
- Who Should Buy the 2022 Mitsubishi Mirage?
- Expert and Consumer Reviews
- Final Verdict
Overview of the 2022 Mitsubishi Mirage
The 2022 Mitsubishi Mirage is a subcompact hatchback that appeals to buyers looking for basic transportation that’s inexpensive, highly fuel-efficient, and easy to maneuver in tight urban environments. Introduced in 2014 and refreshed over the years, the Mirage continues to offer solid value without overcomplicating things with unnecessary frills.
The 2022 model carries forward with minimal changes but retains its place as one of the most economical new cars on sale in North America. Whether you’re seeking a second vehicle, a city-friendly commuter, or a car for your college-bound teen, the Mirage fits the bill.
Design and Exterior Styling
At first glance, the 2022 Mirage may appear modest in design, but it has come a long way from its early boxy look. The front fascia is sharper and more modern, featuring Mitsubishi’s “Dynamic Shield” grille design, sleeker headlights, and integrated LED running lights on higher trims. The rear also gets updates, with sportier bumpers and LED taillights that enhance its appeal.
Despite being small, it doesn’t look out of place on the road. With 14-inch or 15-inch wheels (depending on the trim), the Mirage is compact but manages to project a sense of sporty charm, especially in colors like Infrared Metallic, Sand Yellow, or Sapphire Blue.
Key Exterior Highlights:
- LED rear combination lamps (available)
- Fog lights (in higher trims)
- Aerodynamic body lines
- Optional rear spoiler
Interior Features and Comfort
Step inside the 2022 Mirage, and you’re greeted by a functional and clean cabin. While it’s not loaded with luxury materials, it offers decent comfort for its class. Mitsubishi has worked on improving seat support and usability over the years, and it shows in this model.
The dashboard features a centrally located infotainment screen, manual climate controls, and clear instrument clusters. Soft-touch materials are limited, but everything feels sturdy and well-assembled.
Passenger space is surprisingly decent for a subcompact, especially in the front seats. The rear seats can accommodate two adults for short trips, though long rides may be cramped.
Interior Features Include:
- Cloth upholstery
- 7-inch touchscreen display
- Apple CarPlay & Android Auto (standard)
- 60/40 split-folding rear seats
- Power windows and locks
- Automatic climate control (in higher trims)
Performance and Engine Specifications
Performance isn’t the primary selling point of the Mirage — efficiency is. Under the hood, you’ll find a 1.2-liter three-cylinder engine producing 78 horsepower and 74 lb-ft of torque. It’s paired with either a five-speed manual or a continuously variable transmission (CVT), depending on the trim.
Acceleration is slow, with a 0-60 mph time of over 12 seconds, but the car is light on its feet and performs adequately in city environments. Don’t expect to win races or pass quickly on the highway, but for urban driving, it gets the job done.
Engine Specs:
- Engine: 1.2L DOHC 3-cylinder
- Horsepower: 78 hp
- Torque: 74 lb-ft
- Transmission: 5-speed manual or CVT
- Drivetrain: Front-wheel drive (FWD)
Fuel Economy and MPG
Fuel efficiency is where the 2022 Mitsubishi Mirage truly shines. It’s one of the most fuel-efficient non-hybrid cars available today. With the CVT, it delivers impressive EPA ratings that appeal to anyone looking to save at the pump.
Fuel Economy (EPA-estimated):
- CVT: 36 MPG city / 43 MPG highway / 39 MPG combined
- Manual: 33 MPG city / 41 MPG highway / 36 MPG combined
This stellar gas mileage makes the Mirage a perfect companion for daily commutes and long-distance drives without frequent fuel stops.
Trim Levels and Features
The 2022 Mirage comes in four main trims:
ES
- 7″ touchscreen
- Bluetooth
- Rearview camera
- Apple CarPlay & Android Auto
- Manual transmission (standard), CVT optional
LE
- 15-inch alloy wheels
- Heated front seats
- Keyless entry
- Enhanced exterior styling
Carbonite Edition
- Sporty styling package
- Carbon-fiber-look trim
- Unique grille and decals
SE
- Push-button start
- Automatic climate control
- Forward collision mitigation
- Lane departure warning
- LED headlights
Each trim builds on the previous with added comfort and safety features. The SE is the most well-equipped and still remains budget-friendly.
Technology and Infotainment
Despite its price, Mitsubishi has ensured that the Mirage comes with a respectable set of tech features. The inclusion of Apple CarPlay and Android Auto as standard is a big plus, allowing you to mirror your smartphone apps for music, navigation, and communication.
