The 2017 Mitsubishi Mirage G4 1.2L 3-cyl gets 37 MPG combined, and that’s its main selling point. This car isn’t about thrilling performance or luxury. It’s basic transportation, designed to get the most miles from every gallon. The Mirage G4 appeals to budget-conscious buyers who want an affordable car that doesn’t use much gas.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the 2017 Mitsubishi Mirage G4 gets 35 MPG in the city and 42 MPG on the highway. It doesn’t accelerate quickly, as the 1.2L three-cylinder engine focuses on fuel efficiency over power. The continuously variable transmission (CVT) helps improve efficiency by constantly adjusting gear ratios to keep the engine in its most economical range. The highway MPG is impressive for a car in this class, making it suitable for longer commutes or road trips if comfort isn’t a top priority.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2017 Mitsubishi Mirage G4 at $1,200. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. This is a key benefit for those on a tight budget, and saving money on gas is important. Keep in mind that this is an estimate, so your actual fuel costs may vary depending on how you drive, where you live, and local fuel prices.

Real-world expectations

EPA figures provide a baseline, but real-world fuel economy can vary. The Mirage G4’s small engine works harder at higher speeds or with more passengers and cargo, which can reduce highway MPG. Stop-and-go city driving may also slightly reduce efficiency compared to the EPA estimate. However, drivers who accelerate smoothly and maintain consistent speeds should be able to match or even exceed the EPA figures.

How it compares

The Mirage G4 competes with other fuel-efficient subcompacts. The 2017 Nissan Versa Sedan gets around 31 MPG combined with an automatic transmission, which is less than the Mirage G4. The 2017 Chevrolet Spark gets 33 MPG combined with its CVT, which is also less. Even hybrid options like the Toyota Prius C (around 46 MPG combined) cost much more, making the Mirage G4 a good choice for buyers focused on minimizing their initial investment and running costs. You can find all Mitsubishi fuel economy data on our site to compare and find the best option for you. If you want to look at MIRAGE MPG across all years that data is available as well.

Tips to maximize efficiency

The Mirage G4 responds well to gentle driving. Avoid accelerating quickly and braking hard. The CVT is designed for smooth, gradual power delivery, so take advantage of it. Quick bursts of speed make the engine work harder and consume more fuel.

Keep your tires properly inflated. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which reduces fuel economy. Check your tire pressure regularly and inflate them to the recommended pressure listed on the driver’s side doorjamb. Remember that tire pressure changes with temperature, so adjust as needed.

Remove extra weight from the vehicle. Carrying unnecessary cargo increases fuel consumption. Take out anything you don’t need, especially heavy items in the trunk. A lighter vehicle requires less energy to move, which improves MPG.

Consider using cruise control on the highway. Maintaining a consistent speed can help optimize fuel efficiency. However, pay attention to traffic and avoid using cruise control in hilly areas, where the transmission may shift frequently, which cancels out the benefits.

Perform regular maintenance. A well-maintained engine runs more efficiently. Follow the manufacturer’s recommended maintenance schedule, including oil changes, air filter replacements, and spark plug replacements. A neglected engine wastes fuel.