Mitsubishi Motors Philippines Corporation (MMPC) is confident of regaining the number one spot in the small car category with the launch of the new 2016 Mirage hatchback. Already the country’s best-selling hatchback, the Mirage gets a major update that increases its value-for-money quotient—important in the competitive sub-B and B-segment passenger car category.

Having already made its surprise preview at the Manila International Auto Show last April, the 2016 Mirage features a heavily revised front end that adds some aggressiveness to its otherwise cutesy design. The changes start with a new bumper with a sportier insert that look like tuning forks (chromed on the GLS). Next, the new grille is re-shaped and has gloss-black diamond detailing. Lastly, the angular headlights (HID headlights with LED daytime running lights for the GLS) complete the transformation. At the side, the alloy wheels feature new patterns with the top-of-the-line GLS receiving a two-tone finish. The back also has added angularity with the new rear bumper design as well as new LED tail light cluster.



Inside, the 2016 Mirage ups the comfort and convenience features. The GLS variant, in particular, receives a wealth of upgrades that start with its new white-lit high contrast instrument cluster. It also gets a leather steering wheel and shift knob. Across the range, the new Mirage gets updated seat fabrics for improved luxury while the new “Welcome” and “Coming Home” lights add a layer of security by letting the front and rear position lights stay on when trying to locate the Mirage in a dimly-lit parking lot or having the headlights stay on for 60 seconds while you make your way into your house.

In terms of performance, the new Mirage retains the services of the 3A92 (now Euro 4 compliant) 1.2-liter 3-cylinder engine. Generating 78 horsepower at 6,000 rpm and 100 Nm at 4,000 rpm, it propels the 820-850-kilogram Mirage with pep. The MacPherson Strut front suspension (with stabilizer bar for the GLS) and Torsion Beam rear suspension has been tweaked for better handling and ride. Added sound insulation also improves the Mirage’s NVH levels.



Flaunting its ASEAN NCAP recognition for Adult Occupancy Protection in the Mini Car category, the 2016 Mirage comes standard across the range with dual SRS airbags, anti-lock brakes with electronic brakeforce distribution, and Emergency Stop Signal (ESS) hazard lights. The GLS adds a Brake Override System (BOS) and 3-point ELR seatbelts for all occupants.

Two new colors join the 2016 Mirage line-up: Wine Red Pearl and Sunrise Orange Metallic. This brings the total available colors to 8: Cool Silver, Majestic Red, Medium Blue Mica, Virgil Gray, Aurora White, Savanna White, and Pyrenese Black. There are two variants of the Mirage now available: the GLX with an SRP of P 553,000 for the M/T and P 603,000 for the A/T; and the GLS with an SRP of P 663,000 for the M/T and P 713,000 for the A/T. All Mirage models come with an extended 5-year, 100,000-km warranty.