Mitsubishi has showcased a new entry-level city car called Mirage at the Tokyo motor show. The concept is very close to the production version of the global small car that the Japanese maker intends to introduce in 2012.
The Mitsubishi Mirage is a small, affordable five-door hatchback aimed at emerging markets. At 3710mm in length, 1665mm wide and 1490mm high, the Mirage is 115mm longer, 70mm wider and 10mm lower than a Kia Picanto.
Using a 1.0-litre three-cylinder petrol motor that is mated to a new CVT gearbox and also incorporates regenerative braking and auto stop-start, resulting in a combined economy figure of 71mpg. Lightweight and aerodynamic design is also key to the Mirage, so expect a sub-1000kg kerbweight.
The Mirage is a key car in Mitsubishi’s plan to focus on global models for emerging markets and also start offering electric cars. However, Mitsubishi is open about the fact that the Mirage is destined for both emerging and mature markets. It will go on sale in 2012 in Thailand first before being rolled out across the rest of the globe, eventually arriving in the UK in 2013 when it will replace the ageing Colt.
Mitsubishi also brought its plug-in hybrid PX-MiEV II concept, Minicab-MiEV light commercial EV and Outlander Sport to the Tokyo motor show.
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