The Mitsubishi Mirage VI Hatchback, produced between 2012 and 2016, represents the sixth generation of the Mirage, a subcompact hatchback primarily aimed at the Asian and European markets. While not officially sold in the United States during this generation, the Mirage held a significant position as an affordable and fuel-efficient city car. This iteration focused on maximizing interior space and minimizing running costs, appealing to first-time car buyers and those seeking economical transportation. The 1.0 MIVEC CVT model, equipped with a 999cc engine producing 69 horsepower, was a common variant, emphasizing fuel efficiency over outright performance.
Mitsubishi Mirage VI Hatchback 1.0 MIVEC: An Overview
The Mirage VI aimed to provide a practical and economical solution for urban commuting. Its compact dimensions made it easy to maneuver in congested city streets, while its relatively low weight contributed to improved fuel economy. The 1.0 MIVEC engine, coupled with a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT), was designed to optimize efficiency and provide a smooth driving experience. The vehicle’s design prioritized functionality and affordability, making it a popular choice in price-sensitive markets.
Engine & Performance
The heart of the Mirage VI 1.0 MIVEC is a 999cc inline-three cylinder engine. This naturally aspirated engine produces 69 horsepower at 6000 rpm and 86 Nm (63.43 lb.-ft.) of torque at 5000 rpm. The engine utilizes a multi-port fuel injection system and a Double Overhead Camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder. This configuration, while modest in terms of power output, delivers a power-to-weight ratio of 80.2 horsepower per tonne and a torque-to-weight ratio of 100 Nm per tonne. The CVT transmission is geared towards maximizing fuel efficiency, offering seamless gear changes and keeping the engine operating within its optimal range. The engine’s 10.5:1 compression ratio contributes to its efficiency, and it requires approximately 3 liters (3.17 US quarts) of engine oil.
Design & Features
The Mirage VI Hatchback is a five-door, five-seat hatchback. Its exterior design is characterized by a relatively simple and functional aesthetic. The vehicle’s dimensions – 3710 mm (146.06 in) in length, 1665 mm (65.55 in) in width, and 1490 mm (58.66 in) in height – contribute to its compact footprint. Inside, the Mirage VI prioritizes practicality and space efficiency. The rear seats can be folded down to expand the trunk space from a minimum of 487 liters (17.2 cu. ft.) to a maximum of 1331 liters (47 cu. ft.). Safety features included an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) as standard equipment. The McPherson strut front suspension and torsion beam rear suspension provide a comfortable, if not particularly sporty, ride. The vehicle’s drag coefficient of 0.28 aids in aerodynamic efficiency, further contributing to fuel economy. Electric power steering provides ease of maneuverability.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mitsubishi |
| Model | Mirage |
| Generation | Mirage VI Hatchback |
| Type (Engine) | 1.0 MIVEC (69 Hp) CVT |
| Start of production | 2012 |
| End of production | 2016 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 12.5 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 10 kg/Nm |
| Power | 69 Hp @ 6000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 69.1 Hp/l |
| Torque | 86 Nm @ 5000 rpm |
| Torque (lb.-ft.) | 63.43 lb.-ft. @ 5000 rpm |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | 3A90 |
| Engine displacement | 999 cm3 |
| Engine displacement (cu. in.) | 60.96 cu. in. |
| Number of cylinders | 3 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 75 mm |
| Cylinder Bore (in.) | 2.95 in. |
| Piston Stroke | 75.4 mm |
| Piston Stroke (in.) | 2.97 in. |
| Compression ratio | 10.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 3 l |
| Engine oil capacity (US qt) | 3.17 US qt |
| Engine oil capacity (UK qt) | 2.64 UK qt |
| Coolant capacity | 4.6 l |
| Coolant capacity (US qt) | 4.86 US qt |
| Coolant capacity (UK qt) | 4.05 UK qt |
| Kerb Weight | 860 kg |
| Kerb Weight (lbs.) | 1895.98 lbs. |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 487 l |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum (cu. ft.) | 17.2 cu. ft. |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1331 l |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum (cu. ft.) | 47 cu. ft. |
| Fuel tank capacity | 35 l |
| Fuel tank capacity (US gal) | 9.25 US gal |
| Fuel tank capacity (UK gal) | 7.7 UK gal |
| Length | 3710 mm |
| Length (in.) | 146.06 in. |
| Width | 1665 mm |
| Width (in.) | 65.55 in. |
| Height | 1490 mm |
| Height (in.) | 58.66 in. |
| Wheelbase | 2450 mm |
| Wheelbase (in.) | 96.46 in. |
| Front track | 1430 mm |
| Front track (in.) | 56.3 in. |
| Rear (Back) track | 1415 mm |
| Rear (Back) track (in.) | 55.71 in. |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 140 mm |
| Ride height (ground clearance) (in.) | 5.51 in. |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.28 |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 9.2 m |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) (ft.) | 30.18 ft. |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | automatic transmission CVT |
| Front suspension | Independent, type McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Torsion |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Drum |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 165/65 R14 |
| Wheel rims size | 14 |
The Mitsubishi Mirage VI 1.0 MIVEC CVT, while not a performance vehicle, offered a compelling package of affordability, fuel efficiency, and practicality for buyers in its target markets. Its focus on essential features and low running costs made it a popular choice for urban commuters and those seeking a reliable and economical mode of transportation.
