Mitsubishi Mirage's Production to Cease by 2025

author: FutureCar Staff    

The current generation of the Mitsubishi Mirage exists primarily to comply with emissions regulations in Thailand, one of the brand's largest markets. It is also a way for Mitsubishi to take advantage of the relatively cheap labor in Thailand and produce a competitively priced global product.

While the Mirage may not be considered a great car, it has developed a reputation as a bargain transportation option. In fact, it was the only vehicle to sell below $20,000 in July, indicating its long-standing role as an affordable option.

Mitsubishi has been gradually moving away from the sedan market, focusing instead on value-focused vehicles in developing markets. With the shift towards electrified products and larger vehicles, the decision to discontinue the Mirage in the United States and prioritize crossovers and EVs is not surprising.

Despite the potential demand for value-focused cars in the United States, the Mirage is reportedly being discontinued by 2025. It was once considered one of the best automotive bargains in North America, but the price of micro compacts has increased over the years, leading manufacturers to prioritize higher-profit-margin vehicles.

While the Mirage still offers an excellent warranty and fuel economy, its starting price has increased and it is showing its age. It lacks power and character, making it more suited for city driving rather than highway travel or hilly terrain.

As the Mirage's price has increased, its value proposition has diminished. It now competes with models like the Kia Rio and Nissan Versa, which offer more modern features and additional power without sacrificing fuel economy.

The decline in Mirage sales cannot be solely attributed to the waning popularity of the car itself. The Nissan Versa, for example, has also seen a significant decrease in sales in recent years. This suggests that changes in the market and increasing vehicle pricing have affected the demand for economy cars.

It is unclear how long the Mirage will remain in the market, but sources suggest it may not make it past 2025. Mitsubishi has not provided a specific timeline for the Mirage's departure from North America, but it currently serves as an entry-level vehicle in their portfolio.

FutureCar Staff