No doubt one thing many car buyers are considering when purchasing a new vehicle is how long it will last. Reliability and efficiency are still primary considerations on buyers’ minds. The vehicles that fulfill these needs best need not be the newest and most high-tech. Rather, buyers should look for those that have long track records in the market, are fitted with the most useful features, and are still quite attainable and easy to maintain. Once such vehicle is the Mitsubishi Mirage G4, having been in the market for some time now and only getting better with each year.
The Mirage G4 features the Dynamic Shield design with multi-reflector halogen headlamps on either side and LED-type signal lights. It gives the vehicle a sleeker and more modern look without compromising its very practical dimensions. While many may suggest getting an SUV these days, the Mirage G4 remains compelling with one of the highest ground clearances in its class. This gives it good protection from puddles and standing water when it rains, as well as easy ingress and egress. Behind is a shapely rear bumper that stylishly incorporates reflectors on each side. This top-of-the-line variant gets additions like chrome garnishes below the grille, an air dam in front, at the rear and along the sides, plus a rear spoiler. Getting inside is easy as the GLS Sport comes with a keyless entry system and a push-to-start button. Just have the key in your pocket (or bag), and you are good to go.
The cabin is more than enough to comfortably fit five passengers. The dashboard integrates glossy pieces and silver trim around the cockpit to keep it classy. A seven-inch touchscreen (with Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto) occupies the center stack, allowing it to conveniently connect to almost any smart phone. The USB port is located by the front cupholders. There are also audio controls on the steering wheel. On the bottom of the center stack is the digital automatic climate control system. The Mirage G4 offers much more front passenger elbow room thanks to the lack of the center tunnel. It also gives the rear an ample amount of legroom. While the front seats are slim, the built-in arc of the backrest offers great lumbar support.
Powering the G4 is a 1.2-liter three-cylinder engine mated to a continuously variable transmission. It delivers 78-PS and 100-Nm of torque. It might not sound like an impressive number, but the vehicle only weighs 1.3 tons, and thus takes very little effort to get moving. This light weight pays dividends when on the highway. The G4 can cruise at 100 km/h while keeping revs at just 2,100 RPM. This gives it a lot of room to rev and overtake at higher speeds if needed. Fuel consumption is a very good 13.7 km/l in mixed driving conditions.
Handling is very light. The suspension is designed to mute bumps and potholes while maintaining a high clearance. The compact size makes it easy to maneuver in and out of traffic and small parking slots. Having a reverse camera makes backing up into a space even easier. Comfort is high because the cabin feels roomy (relative to its segment). It also helps a lot that it has very noise, vibration, and harshness (NVH) suppression. Save for large, awkward humps, there is barely a thud or sound from other cars coming into the cabin.
At P929,000 the Mirage G4 GLS Sport still retains the same price from last year, making it a compelling choice in light of the many newer, but also more expensive vehicles. The Mirage G4 continues to be a top choice for many vehicle buyers, averaging 5,000 units sold each year.