Which is Better Chevrolet Spark or Mitsubishi Mirage: A Comprehensive Comparison for Buyers

Are you torn between the Chevrolet Spark and the Mitsubishi Mirage? You’re not alone. Many drivers face the same dilemma when searching for a compact car that fits their lifestyle and budget. Both options promise fuel efficiency and easy maneuverability, but which one truly stands out?

Key Takeaways

• Performance Comparison: The Chevrolet Spark features a 1.4-liter engine with 98 horsepower, offering a spirited driving experience, while the Mitsubishi Mirage has a 1.2-liter engine with 78 horsepower, emphasizing fuel economy.
• Fuel Efficiency: The Mirage leads in fuel efficiency, achieving approximately 36 mpg in the city and 43 mpg on the highway compared to the Spark’s 30 mpg city and 38 mpg highway.
• Interior Space: The Spark provides a more spacious interior with 27.2 cubic feet of cargo space, making it better for transporting goods, while the Mirage offers 22.6 cubic feet.
• Safety Features: Both vehicles come with strong safety features, but the Spark includes more standard technologies, while the Mirage offers unique enhancements like a multi-view camera.
• Technology and Connectivity: Each car includes modern tech amenities like a 7-inch touchscreen and smartphone integration; however, the Spark’s available Wi-Fi hotspot may provide added convenience.
• Cost Considerations: The Spark starts at around $14,598, while the Mirage begins at approximately $15,290, making the Spark a more affordable entry point with lower insurance costs over time.

Overview of Chevrolet Spark and Mitsubishi Mirage

The Chevrolet Spark and Mitsubishi Mirage are two compact cars designed for urban living. Both focus on efficiency, practicality, and affordability. Choosing between them involves understanding their core features and advantages.

Chevrolet Spark

• Engine and Performance: The Spark features a 1.4-liter engine producing 98 horsepower. It’s suited for city driving, offering agility in tight spaces.
• Fuel Efficiency: The Spark achieves an estimated 30 mpg in the city and 38 mpg on the highway. This efficiency saves you money on fuel.
• Interior Space: The cabin accommodates four adults comfortably, with 27.2 cubic feet of trunk space, making it practical for groceries or weekend trips.
• Technology: Standard features include a 7-inch touchscreen, smartphone integration, and available Wi-Fi hotspot. These keep you connected on the go.

Mitsubishi Mirage

• Engine and Performance: The Mirage is equipped with a 1.2-liter three-cylinder engine generating 78 horsepower. While it’s less powerful, it excels in fuel efficiency.
• Fuel Efficiency: The Mirage leads the class, offering about 36 mpg in the city and 43 mpg on the highway. This can be appealing for budget-conscious drivers.
• Interior Space: The Mirage also seats four, with 22.6 cubic feet of cargo space. This suits quick errands around town.
• Technology: The Mirage includes features like a 7-inch display and smartphone compatibility. Some trims also offer a rearview camera for added safety.

Comparison Summary

Both cars excel in fuel efficiency and urban maneuverability. The Spark offers more horsepower and interior space, making it slightly more versatile. The Mirage stands out in fuel economy, which can significantly lower your overall driving expenses. Your choice hinges on whether you prioritize power or efficiency.

Design and Aesthetics

When comparing the Chevrolet Spark and Mitsubishi Mirage, design and aesthetics play a key role in your decision. Both compact cars exhibit unique styles, catering to different preferences.

Exterior Features

Chevrolet Spark boasts a sporty and modern appearance, featuring a bold front grille and dynamic body lines. Its compact size enhances agility in urban settings. The Spark offers a variety of vibrant color options, appealing to those who enjoy personalization. For example, you can find colors like Lime Green and Mystic Blue that stand out on the road.

Mitsubishi Mirage presents a more conservative design, characterized by a sleek silhouette and rounded edges. The front fascia gives it a friendly look, while the rear hatch maintains practicality. Some trims include stylish enhancements like a rear spoiler and alloy wheels, adding a touch of sportiness. You might prefer the Mirage’s more understated elegance if subtlety appeals to you.

Interior Comfort and Layout

Chevrolet Spark prioritizes passenger comfort with its spacious interior layout. You’ll find supportive seats and a user-friendly dashboard design. The 7-inch touchscreen interface is intuitive, combining functionality with modern styling. With 27.2 cubic feet of cargo space, it accommodates weekend trips or grocery runs easily.

Mitsubishi Mirage offers a slightly simpler interior, focusing on practicality. Despite being snug, it maintains a pleasant atmosphere with well-placed controls. Although the cargo space is smaller at 22.6 cubic feet, it still provides enough room for daily essentials. The user-friendly infotainment system ensures ease of access to your favorite apps, enhancing your driving experience.

Both cars deliver distinct design qualities and interior experiences. The choice between them largely depends on whether you prefer a sporty, vibrant aesthetic or a more understated, practical design.

Performance and Handling

When comparing the Chevrolet Spark and the Mitsubishi Mirage, performance and handling play crucial roles in determining which compact car suits your needs better.

Engine Specifications

The Chevrolet Spark features a robust 1.4-liter four-cylinder engine that generates 98 horsepower, offering quick acceleration and a lively driving experience. Its engine provides ample power for city driving and highway merging. In contrast, the Mitsubishi Mirage comes equipped with a smaller 1.2-liter three-cylinder engine that produces 78 horsepower. While this engine prioritizes fuel economy, its lower power may affect performance, especially during highway speeds.

Car Model	Engine Type	Horsepower	City MPG	Highway MPG
Chevrolet Spark	1.4L four-cylinder	98	30	38
Mitsubishi Mirage	1.2L three-cylinder	78	36	43

Driving Experience

Driving the Chevrolet Spark provides a sporty and engaging experience. Its responsive steering and agile handling allow for smooth cornering and easy navigation through city traffic. The Spark feels confident on the road, thanks to its well-tuned suspension that absorbs bumps effectively.

On the other hand, the Mitsubishi Mirage emphasizes fuel efficiency over spirited performance. While it handles well in urban environments, its lighter weight and less powerful engine result in a more subdued driving experience. It excels in tight spaces, making it perfect for maneuvering through congested city streets.

Ultimately, your choice hinges on what you value more: the energetic performance of the Chevrolet Spark or the economical driving experience of the Mitsubishi Mirage.

Fuel Efficiency and Economy

Fuel efficiency plays a crucial role when comparing the Chevrolet Spark and the Mitsubishi Mirage. Each model offers impressive mpg ratings, catering to budget-conscious drivers.

Chevrolet Spark Fuel Economy

The Chevrolet Spark features a 1.4-liter engine, achieving an estimated 30 mpg in the city and 38 mpg on the highway. Its combined mpg rating of approximately 33 makes it a strong contender for urban and suburban driving. This efficiency can lead to significant savings, especially if you’re stuck in traffic or frequently travel short distances. The Spark’s lightweight design enhances its agility, allowing for optimal fuel use.

Mitsubishi Mirage Fuel Economy

In contrast, the Mitsubishi Mirage excels in fuel economy. With its 1.2-liter three-cylinder engine, it boasts an estimated 36 mpg in the city and 43 mpg on the highway. Its combined mpg rating of around 39 highlights its efficiency, making it ideal for long commutes or frequent road trips. The Mirage’s lower horsepower may influence performance, but it compensates with remarkable fuel savings that can benefit your wallet significantly over time.

Cost of Ownership

Considering overall cost of ownership is also key. The Spark and Mirage’s fuel economy directly impacts your fuel expenses over years. For example, if you drive 12,000 miles annually, the Spark’s fuel costs might total around $1,200 per year, while the Mirage’s could fall closer to $1,000, assuming current gas prices around $3.00 per gallon. These savings could make the Mirage a more attractive option in the long run.

Environmental Impact

Fuel efficiency also correlates with environmental impact. Lower fuel consumption typically results in fewer emissions. With the Mirage’s superior mpg ratings, you contribute less to environmental degradation, which could align with your eco-friendly choices.

Both vehicles showcase strong fuel efficiency. The Spark offers a balance of performance and reasonable fuel economy, while the Mirage shines in its ability to cover more miles on less fuel. Your driving habits and priorities dictate which model suits you best.

Safety Features and Ratings

Both the Chevrolet Spark and Mitsubishi Mirage prioritize safety, but they differ in features and ratings that can impact your decision.

Chevrolet Spark Safety Features

• Airbags: Includes front, side, and knee airbags to protect you and your passengers.
• Stability Control: This feature helps maintain control during sudden turns.
• Rear Vision Camera: Standard on all models, this aids in reversing safely.
• Teen Driver Technology: Useful for supervising young drivers, it encourages safe driving habits.

Mitsubishi Mirage Safety Features

• Multi-View Camera System: Offers a bird’s-eye view for better parking and maneuvering.
• Active Stability Control: Enhances traction and stability on the road, especially in adverse conditions.
• Advanced Airbag System: Features dual-stage front, side, and curtain airbags to provide comprehensive protection.
• Standard Reinforced Safety Cage: Designed to absorb crash energy, protecting occupants.

Safety Ratings Overview

Both vehicles have been assessed by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).

Vehicle	NHTSA Overall Rating	IIHS Ratings
Chevrolet Spark	4 out of 5 stars	Good (varies by model)
Mitsubishi Mirage	4 out of 5 stars	Acceptable (varies by model)

Summary of Safety Considerations

When comparing safety features, the Chevrolet Spark offers a robust set of standard technologies, while the Mitsubishi Mirage provides useful enhancements like the multi-view camera. Each car has a solid safety rating from reputable organizations. Consider your priorities regarding safety technology and crash ratings when choosing between the two.

Technology and Infotainment

Both the Chevrolet Spark and the Mitsubishi Mirage come equipped with modern technology features that enhance your driving experience. Connectivity and user interface play a crucial role in your daily commutes.

Connectivity Options

Both vehicles offer smartphone integration, allowing you to easily connect your device for hands-free calling and music streaming. The Chevrolet Spark includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, providing seamless access to your favorite apps, navigation, and music. Moreover, Spark’s available Wi-Fi hotspot enhances connectivity on the go. In comparison, the Mitsubishi Mirage features a similar 7-inch touchscreen with compatibility for both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, ensuring you stay connected wherever your journey takes you.

User Interface

The user interface in both cars remains straightforward and user-friendly. The Spark’s infotainment system showcases a bright, responsive touchscreen display that simplifies navigation and controls. Physical buttons also provide easy access to essential functions, reducing distraction while driving. The Mirage’s interface mirrors this simplicity, offering a clean layout that’s easy to operate. Its dashboard features a modern design, but some users report the system can be less intuitive during initial use. Overall, both vehicles prioritize accessibility, making it easy for you to control various functions without diverting your attention from the road.

Pricing and Value for Money

When comparing the Chevrolet Spark and Mitsubishi Mirage, pricing and overall value play crucial roles in your decision.

Cost of Base Models

• Chevrolet Spark: The base price starts around $14,598. This entry-level model provides a compact car experience with essential features.
• Mitsubishi Mirage: The base price begins at approximately $15,290. Slightly higher than the Spark, but offers exceptional fuel efficiency.

Optional Features and Costs

• Spark: You can add options like a larger touchscreen and safety packages, which may raise the price up to about $20,000 for fully equipped trims.
• Mirage: Options for the Mirage include premium audio and upgraded safety features, potentially increasing the price to around $18,000 on higher trims.

Long-Term Costs

• Fuel Expenses: Fuel costs for the Spark are estimated at about $1,200 yearly for 12,000 miles. Its MPG ratings contribute to these expenses.
• Mirage: The Mirage’s superior fuel efficiency leads to lower fuel costs, approximately $1,000 per year.

Resale Value

• Spark: Chevy vehicles, including the Spark, hold their value relatively well due to brand loyalty and reputation.
• Mirage: While the Mirage may depreciate faster, its low initial price and fuel savings can offset some losses over time.

Insurance Costs

• Spark: Insurance for the Spark averages around $1,200 annually, depending on factors like location and driving history.
• Mirage: The Mirage typically costs slightly less to insure, around $1,100 per year.

• Spark: The Spark offers more interior space and a spirited driving experience, adding value for those seeking a lively city car.
• Mirage: The Mirage excels in fuel economy and lower ownership costs, making it a strong contender for budget-conscious buyers.

Determining which car presents better value depends on your specific needs. If you’re prioritizing initial cost and fuel savings, the Mirage stands out. However, if you value more power and interior space, the Spark may be the ideal choice for you.

Conclusion

Choosing between the Chevrolet Spark and the Mitsubishi Mirage really comes down to what you value most in a compact car. If you’re looking for a lively driving experience with a bit more power and interior space the Spark might be your best bet. On the other hand if fuel efficiency and lower ownership costs are your top priorities the Mirage could be the perfect fit.

Both cars have their unique strengths and cater to different lifestyles. Take a moment to consider your daily driving needs budget and personal preferences. Whichever you choose you’ll be getting a reliable and efficient vehicle that’s designed to make your urban adventures a breeze. Happy driving!

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the key differences between the Chevrolet Spark and the Mitsubishi Mirage?

The Chevrolet Spark features a more powerful 1.4-liter engine with 98 horsepower, while the Mitsubishi Mirage has a 1.2-liter engine with 78 horsepower. The Spark also offers more cargo space and a sportier driving experience, whereas the Mirage excels in fuel efficiency, achieving up to 43 mpg on the highway.

Which car has better fuel efficiency?

The Mitsubishi Mirage leads in fuel efficiency, delivering about 36 mpg in the city and 43 mpg on the highway. The Chevrolet Spark follows with approximately 30 mpg in the city and 38 mpg on the highway, making the Mirage the better choice for budget-conscious buyers.

How do the safety ratings compare for both vehicles?

Both the Chevrolet Spark and Mitsubishi Mirage received a 4 out of 5 stars overall rating from the NHTSA. The Spark is rated “Good” by the IIHS, while the Mirage has an “Acceptable” rating, indicating that both cars have solid safety features but the Spark edges out slightly in safety performance.

What technology features do these cars offer?

Both the Chevrolet Spark and Mitsubishi Mirage come equipped with a 7-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto for smartphone integration. The Spark additionally offers an available Wi-Fi hotspot, while both vehicles prioritize user-friendly interfaces for easy access to technology.

How do the prices of the Chevrolet Spark and Mitsubishi Mirage compare?

The Chevrolet Spark starts at around $14,598, while the Mitsubishi Mirage begins at approximately $15,290. The Spark may reach up to $20,000 fully equipped, while the Mirage can reach about $18,000, which may affect long-term value considerations for buyers.