The Mirage, a 5 door hatchback, powered by 1.2 litre engine, which was launched in various Asian markets in November 2012 by Mitsubishi Motor Corporation (MMC), is not expected to come to India. It appears that MMC is busy with enhancing the SUV market in the country, after having recently launched the Pajero Sport
MMC has developed the Mirage especially for developing markets such as China and other ASEAN countries that are witnessing a high demand for small, fuel efficient compact vehicles. Given the small size of the Mirage with an overall length of 3710 mm, width of 1665 mm and height of 1490 mm, it appears to be best suited for these emerging markets.
The car delivers a substantial fuel efficiency of 22 kmpl, as claimed by the company. The weight of the Mirage is less than 1000 kg, which makes it a practical hatchback. It is believed to be priced between Rs. 5-6 lakhs, if ever launched in India.
The Mitsubishi Mirage was produced as a sub-compact car in Japan from 1978 to 2002. Other names for this vehicle were the Mitsubishi Colt or Lancer Fiore. Many generations of this vehicle were sold in various automotive markets. However, back then, the car could not achieve great success. Later, the Mirage was once again seen as a new concept car at the 2011 Geneva Auto Show.
For the future, it is not very clear as to whether MMC wishes to continue with its Indian partner, Hindustan Motors, or not. By entering the hatchback segment in India, Mitsubishi may have written a completely new success story.
As of now, HM-Mitsubishi has not built any dealerships for distributing hatchbacks in India, which stands testimony to the fact that a car, which could have done very well in India, will not be launched in the country soon.
