2021 Mitsubishi Mirage

Mitsubishi sells a small range of budget-friendly SUVs that have been steadily improving in the brand’s road-test scores. In the past, Mitsubishi was known for its partnership with Chrysler and its eclectic lineup. Discontinued models include the budget-friendly Mirage, sports cars like the 3000 GT, Eclipse, and Lancer Evolution, mid-priced sedans, and dedicated off-road SUVs. After struggling during the 2000s and 2010s, Mitsubishi is now part of the Renault-Nissan-Mitsubishi Alliance and has benefited from access to the other alliance members’ designs and technology. The Mitsubishi Outlander, for example, is based on the Nissan Rogue. Because Mitsubishi’s lineup is a mix of newer and older designs, some older models lag behind in crash test ratings while newer ones get top scores.

Mitsubishi's tiny, Thailand-built subcompact seems like an act of desperation, dressing a primitive Asia-market car with some upscale toys and calling it a day. Good points include a decent-enough ride, terrific 37-mpg fuel economy, and an accommodating rear seat. The up-level ES also brings a fancy radio, push-button start, auto climate system and Bluetooth. However, the weak, vibrating, and incredibly noisy three-cylinder engine provides sluggish acceleration, handling is clumsy, and the cabin is depressingly low-rent. 2024 is the final year for the Mirage.