Mitsubishi Mirage officially launched at a starting price of RM 55,328
Most fuel efficient compact in its class capable of 21 km/l
Kuala Lumpur, 19 November 2012 –
Mitsubishi Motors Malaysia (MMM), the official distributor of Mitsubishi vehicles in Malaysia, officially launched the much anticipated all-new Mitsubishi Mirage today.
Developed on the concept of ‘compact’, ‘affordability’ and ‘high fuel efficiency’, Mirage is set to create waves in Malaysia. With focus on fuel efficiency and eco-friendliness, the Mirage is capable of an impressive 21 km per litre of petrol as measured in the New European Driving Cycle (NEDC).
Present to officiate the launch was Osamu Masuko, President of Mitsubishi Motors Corporation (MMC), Japan, accompanied by Tetsuya Oda, Chief Executive Officer of MMM.
The Mirage comes in three variants, namely the five-speed manual GL, CVT GL and CVT GS, with prices ranging from RM55,328 to RM63,120 (on-the-road without insurance) and made available in five colors – Lemonade Yellow Metallic, Eisen Grey Mica, Red Metallic, White Pearl and Cool Silver Metallic.
Buyers can choose to pair the MIVEC (Mitsubishi Innovative Valve Timing Electronic Control) engine to a smooth and efficient INVECS-III (Continuously Variable Transmission) or a five-speed manual gearbox. Besides the standard three-year or 100,000 km warranty, the Mirage comes with a free one-year maintenance package (maintenance parts, engine oil and labour cost up to one year or 20,000km).
The Mirage delivers fuel efficiency and low CO2 emissions that are among the best in its class thanks to its all-new 1.2-litre engine with MIVEC technology and thoroughly reduced aerodynamic resistance and rolling resistance. Optimization of the body structure and more extensive use of high-tensile strength panels make the vehicle some seven percent* lighter than a usual car for its class, contributing to better fuel economy.
* Weight ratio calculated by applying ratio of high-tensile steel used in the Colt to the Mirage
The modern three-cylinder engine produces 78 PS and 100 Nm of torque, providing the lightest-in-class 850 kg for the CVT and 825 kg for the MT variant respectively.
The Mirage comes with an equipment list that is full of surprises for a car in this segment. Features unique to it includes the Smart Key (keyless entry) with push start button, digital automatic air-condition, a 2-DIN audio system with USB, iPod and AUX interface, Bright View instrument cluster, and a leather wrapped steering wheel and gear knob.
Safety is a main priority at Mitsubishi, and as a global car, the all-new Mirage comes with active and passive safety features to protect its occupants. 4-Wheel ABS with EBD is standard, along with dual front SRS airbags and seatbelt pre-tensioners, ISOFIX Child Seat Mount, Child Lock and Anti-Pinch Power Window.
Mitsubishi Motors Malaysia has also made available a range of optional accessories for the Mirage. Owners can jazz up their new ride with an Aero Package (RM1,999.90), Chrome Package (RM750.00), Ralliart fuel lid cover (RM150.00) and smart fit leather seats (RM1,500.00), or a combination of the above.
First entry into B-Segment Hatchback
“The introduction of Mirage is indeed a defining moment in our automotive journey in Malaysia as Mirage is the perfect model for our very first entry into the B-Segment hatchback. With its superb fuel efficiency, advanced features and stylish compact design, we are confident of selling 400 units per month, with a target share of 20% in the B-segment Hatchback, among non-national brands,’ said Tetsuya Oda, Chief Executive Officer of Mitsubishi Motors Malaysia.
“With the addition of Mirage, the Mitsubishi lineup in Malaysia grows to 11 models and we are well on track to achieve annual sales of more than 30,000 units by year 2015. We will continue to introduce new Mitsubishi models with eco-friendly technologies which promote smarter and more fuel efficient driving experience,” said Oda.
“The Mirage is Mitsubishi’s global strategic model which fits both the needs for an affordable entry car in emerging countries, and the needs for environmental friendliness in matured countries,” the visiting Masuko said.
He added, “In Thailand we have already received over 45,000 units of orders from customers after the launch in March this year. As for Japan, we have also launched the Mirage in August and we have received close to 12,000 units of orders from customers with very positive response.”
Steady growth
Oda also revealed that Mitsubishi Motors Malaysia is confident of achieving its sales target of 13,000 cars for the fiscal year ending March 2013, thanks to the introduction of the Mirage and new variants of current models. In the first seven months of Financial Year 2012 (April-October 2012), Mitsubishi Motors Malaysia sold close to 7,000 vehicles.
“Mitsubishi is currently the fourth best-selling non-national brand in Malaysia, with a 4.1% market share among non-national brands,” he added.
