39 MPG combined defines the 2017 Mitsubishi Mirage 1.2L 3-cyl. It is not a performance car, a luxury vehicle, or a particularly spacious one. Instead, it focuses on squeezing the most miles from each gallon of gasoline. The Mirage provides affordable, reliable transportation with minimal running costs, a mission it executes with focus.

City and highway performance

The EPA figures show that the highway driving achieves slightly better mileage, with 43 MPG compared to 37 MPG in the city. This reflects the engine’s efficiency and the continuously variable transmission (CVT). In urban environments, the CVT keeps the engine in a higher RPM range as it moves through “gears” to provide quicker acceleration, which slightly decreases efficiency. On the open road, at a steady cruising speed, the engine settles into a more fuel-efficient rhythm. Remember that local traffic and road conditions can affect the mileage.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates an annual fuel cost of $1,100 for the 2017 Mitsubishi Mirage 1.2L 3-cyl. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using the national average fuel price at the time of calculation. Low operating costs are attractive for budget-conscious buyers. It’s an argument for those whose priority is minimizing expenses rather than maximizing performance.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA numbers provide a useful benchmark, real-world fuel economy varies. Depending on driving style, terrain, and climate, drivers can expect figures slightly below or above the official estimates. Aggressive acceleration or frequent stop-and-go traffic will reduce fuel efficiency. Smooth driving and consistent speeds on level roads can help achieve, or even exceed, the EPA numbers. Note if driving conditions decrease efficiency, and find ways to improve it.

How it compares

The Mirage’s primary rivals in the ultra-efficient segment include the Toyota Yaris and the Honda Fit. The 2017 Toyota Yaris, with its 1.5L 4-cylinder engine, achieves around 32 MPG combined. A similar-year Honda Fit, known for its practicality and versatility, manages around 33 MPG combined. It is also worth comparing the Nissan Versa, offering around 34 MPG combined, similar to the Mirage in affordability. The Mirage prioritizes fuel economy, exceeding its key competitors’ MPG ratings. Potential buyers of a 2017 Mirage can find MIRAGE MPG across all years helpful for decision-making.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Gentle acceleration helps maximize fuel economy in the Mirage. The 1.2L 3-cylinder engine is tuned for efficiency, not power, so smooth, gradual acceleration places less strain on the engine and saves fuel. Avoid sudden bursts of speed, especially when starting from a standstill.

Maintain a consistent speed on the highway. The Mirage’s CVT is designed to find the most efficient gear ratio for a given speed. Staying at a steady pace, without frequent acceleration or braking, allows the transmission to optimize fuel consumption.

Keep tires properly inflated. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder and reducing fuel economy. Check tire pressure regularly and inflate them to the manufacturer’s recommended levels. This is important for a lightweight car like the Mirage.

Minimize the use of accessories such as air conditioning and the radio, particularly air conditioning. These features draw power from the engine, which reduces fuel economy. Limit their use, especially during short trips.

Reduce unnecessary weight by removing any unnecessary items from the car, such as heavy bags or loose equipment. Extra weight in the vehicle increases the load on the engine. For all Mitsubishi fuel economy data, people can review other vehicles with a larger cargo capacity if that is a priority over MPG.