2026 Mitsubishi Mirage Review - Is This Still the Best Budget Car in America?

2026 Mitsubishi Mirage Review - If you're shopping on a tight budget, need reliable transportation, or just want a simple commuter with amazing gas mileage, the Mirage has always been a go-to. But in 2026, does it still hold up against growing competition and the rise of small crossovers?

Let’s break down everything you need to know, from fuel economy and pricing to features and daily usability.

OVERVIEW & DESIGN

The 2026 Mitsubishi Mirage continues to be one of the most affordable and fuel-efficient subcompact cars sold in the U.S., and while it hasn’t seen a major redesign this year, Mitsubishi has kept the package fresh with small refinements.

Exterior Highlights:

The front end sports Mitsubishi’s Dynamic Shield design, giving it a sharp, modern look despite its budget status.
Sleek halogen or optional LED headlights, depending on trim
New color options like Sunrise Orange and Electric Blue Pearl
14-inch or 15-inch wheel, depending on trim

Despite its small size, the Mirage still turns heads for being a true city-friendly hatchback. Its tight dimensions and tall stance make it ideal for urban driving and tight parking spots.

ENGINE & PERFORMANCE

Let’s talk about what’s under the hood. Spoiler: it hasn’t changed much—but that’s not necessarily a bad thing.

Engine Specs:

1.2-liter 3-cylinder engine
78 horsepower and 74 lb-ft of torque
Paired with a CVT automatic (5-speed manual available on base trims)

Now, is it quick? No. But that’s not the point of the Mirage. This car is all about efficiency, simplicity, and affordability. It’s designed to get you from point A to B with as little fuss—and fuel—as possible.

Fuel Economy (EPA Estimated):

36 MPG city / 43 MPG highway
Combined: around 39 MPG

This makes the Mirage one of the most fuel-efficient non-hybrid cars in America, which is a huge plus for daily commuters and first-time drivers.

INTERIOR & FEATURES

You might expect a bare-bones cabin for this price, but Mitsubishi has done a solid job making the Mirage feel more modern.

Interior Features:

7-inch touchscreen infotainment system (standard)
Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto (on higher trims)
4-speaker sound system, Bluetooth, USB port
Keyless entry and push-button start available on SE trim
Simple but comfortable cloth seats

The interior plastics are hard—but that’s expected. Still, the cabin is well laid out and offers surprising headroom and visibility for a subcompact. Rear seating is tight for adults but manageable for short trips or kids.

Cargo space is limited but flexible, with 17.1 cubic feet behind the second row and 47 cu. ft. with seats folded down, more than some competitors like the Nissan Versa or Chevy Spark (which has now been discontinued).

SAFETY & WARRANTY

Despite its low price point, Mitsubishi doesn’t skimp on essential safety features:

Standard Safety Tech:

Forward Collision Mitigation with Pedestrian Detection
Lane Departure Warning
Automatic Emergency Braking
Rearview Camera

Higher trims add features like fog lights and cruise control, but don’t expect advanced tech like adaptive cruise or lane-keeping assist at this price point.

Warranty Coverage:

This is where Mitsubishi really shines:

10-year / 100,000-mile powertrain warranty
5-year / 60,000-mile new vehicle limited warranty

This beats what you’ll find from most other brands and gives peace of mind for budget-focused buyers.

TRIMS & PRICING

Here’s a breakdown of the 2026 Mirage trims available in the U.S.:

🔹 ES (Base Trim) – Starting at $17,995

Manual transmission, basic stereo, power windows, rearview camera

🔹 LE – Around $19,000

Adds Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, upgraded interior trim, automatic climate control

🔹 SE – Tops out near $20,500

Push-button start, keyless entry, heated front seats, alloy wheels

Even at the top trim level, the Mirage stays around the $20K mark, making it one of the cheapest new cars you can buy with modern features and great MPG.

So, is the 2026 Mitsubishi Mirage still worth buying in today’s market?

If you want a reliable, affordable, and fuel-efficient car with low operating costs and solid warranty coverage, it’s a compelling option. Sure, it’s not fast, fancy, or high-tech—but it’s honest, functional transportation that does exactly what it promises.