2001 Mitsubishi Mirage: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

Mitsubishi's entry-level subcompact continues unchanged for 2001 and offers coupes in DE and LS trim, sedans in ES and LS trim. All models meet Low Emission Vehicle (LEV) standards. Mirage DE coupes use a 1.5-liter 4-cylinder engine, while the ES sedan, derived from the 2000 DE model, shares a 1.8-liter 4-cylinder with the LS models. Manual transmission is standard, automatic is optional on all but the LS sedan, where it's standard. For 2001, the ES sedan includes the long list of standards formerly attributed to the DE model. The LS sedan now comes equipped with power windows and door locks. Power sunroof and alloy wheels are optional, rather than standard, on the LS.

COMPETITION

A perennial favorite, the Honda Civic, is new and better than ever. We love the wide range of bodystyles, engines, and equipment. Civic is a solid car that has good performance, a nice ride, and a high degree of civility. New last year was the Ford Focus. Though we loved almost everything about the Focus, we were reluctant to rank it a Best Buy because it was new from the ground up. After a year of living with a ZTS model, we can say that the reliability is good. Focus ranks a notch below Civic in some areas but costs less. Topping the crowded Recommended list are the Volkswagen Golf and Jetta. They easily could be Best Buys as they are better than the Civic in many ways. However, they are also the most expensive cars in this segment. Other Recommended choices include the no-frills Dodge Neon and Toyota Echo, the slightly-upscale Nissan Sentra, and the roomy Mazda Protege. If you are looking for a budget buy, the Hyundai Accent offers a lot for your dollar, however, it's not as refined as more-expensive competitors.