Paris motor show 2012: Mitsubishi Mirage

Mitsubishi will launch a new compact car for the European market at the Paris Motor Show later this month. The car, named Mirage in some markets, is said to be focussed on high fuel efficiency, affordability and compactness.

It is likely the Mirage will be given a different name in the UK – possibly Colt – although there is no official confirmation of this at present.

Last seen at the Tokyo motor show last year, the global compact car has received high acclaim in south east Asian countries and Japan. It is expected to launch in Europe, Australia and other markets in February 2013. 

The launch is to take advantage of Europe’s increasingly stringent CO2 regulations, and an increasing demand for efficient city cars. The 1.0-litre 3-cylinder MIVEC engine emits a claimed 92g/km. This is achieved through weight reduction, aerodynamic drag reduction, and a start-stop system. 

Mitsubishi claims the new model delivers “easy-to-drive manoeuvrability and peppy performance while at the same time maximising interior occupant space through its high-efficiency packaging”.

David Bond