The Japanese manufacturer started the Mirage's production in 1978, and the nameplate stayed in production until 2003. The model suffered lots of changes during these years, being sold under different names depending on market. Mirage was used for all the five generations in Japan, however, other markets utilized the name Mitsubishi Colt. As the vehicle was not very popular, it was discontinued in 2003.
In 2011, the Mirage returned, with Mitsubishi unveiling the sixth generation of the model at the Tokyo Motor Show. The objectives for this car were affordability and efficiency. The car's weight was reduced, switching to a more rounded design and reaching a class-leading drag coefficient of 0.27 Cd.
The features included for this model are decent: 15-inch alloy wheels, central locking, climate and cruise control, fog lamps, rain and headlamp sensors, electric mirror and keyless operation.
The first models included a 1.0-liter three-cylinder engine with AS&G and CVT and were available in Japan. In mid 2012, in the Philippines, the Mirage was available in 4 different variants – GLX and GLS and both came with either a 5-speed manual transmission or a CVT automatic transmission. The cars were powered by a 1.2-liter engine delivering 79 hp.
The Mitsubishi Mirage was backed by a 3-year unlimited mileage warranty. At the Euro NCAP crash test, the model scored 4 stars, however, all versions are equipped with six airbags and a stability control system.