AIMS: Mitsubishi Mirage runs on the scent of an oily rag

Mitsubishi has unveiled its new Mirage light car for the first time on local soil at the Australian International Motor Show (AIMS) in Sydney.

All-important pricing will not be released until the car’s official release in January, but Mitsubishi looks set to match its competitors with six airbags, Bluetooth connectivity, push-button engine starting and rain-sensing wipers, at least on premium models.

Mitsubishi confirmed that two versions of the Thai-built light car will be offered - entry-level ES and top-grade LS – both powered by the same 1.2-litre three-cylinder petrol engine, generating 57kW/100Nm, matched with five-speed manual or optional CVT gearboxes.

Together with slippery aerodynamics (0.30Cd) and a low kerb weight, the Mirage ES manual is claimed to deliver class-leading fuel economy of 4.6L/100km, marginally pipping the previous title holder, Suzuki Alto's (4.7L/100km).

The new Mirage is one of Mitsubishi's new global vehicles, sold in all regions across the globe, and is a key part of the company's new strategy to downsize its global fleet from more than two dozen models to just eight to curtail manufacturing costs.

Mitsubishi Motors Australia Limited's CEO, Mutsuhiro Oshikiri, was upbeat during the unveiling of the new compact car, which he said has the potential to boost the importers' sales in the segment significantly.

"The Mirage is great value for money, offering lively performance and a brand new stylish design which we are confident will appeal to customers," said Mr Oshikiri of the Mitsubishi Colt's replacement.

"The Mirage is impressive because it balances high performance and functionality with fuel efficiency in a compact, yet spacious, package that is fun to drive."

Measuring 3710mm long and 1665mm wide, the new Mirage is slightly larger than the 3500mm long Suzuki Alto, and has seating for five passengers.

The 60/40-split  rear seats can be folded down for improved luggage space and in order to compete in the cut-throat light car segment Mitsubishi has packaged both models with a convincing list of standard features.

All models come with power windows, leather-clad steering wheel, air-conditioning, central locking and keyless entry, Bluetooth 2.0 audio and phone streaming, a CD stereo with AUX and USB sockets, plus safety features such as six airbags (including side curtain airbags), anti lock brakes, electronic brake-force distribution stability control.

Less obvious additions like carpeted floors, a driver’s footrest and steering wheel controls for phone and audio are nice touches too.

Up-spec LS models add improved seat fabric, climate-control, dusk-sensing headlights, rain-sensing windscreen wipers, smart proximity key with push-button engine starting, a better stereo, a leather-clad gear knob and a handful of exterior upgrades like 15-inch alloy wheels, front foglights and roof spoiler.

There is an optional Sport Pack for the base-model ES Mirage, which adds 14-inch alloy wheels, a rear spoiler and the upgraded stereo from the LS model.

Head to www.motoring.com.au for full 2012 AIMS photo gallery from the Australian International Motor Show

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