Fiesta vs mirage: the ultimate city car showdown for budget-conscious drivers

The Ford Fiesta and Mitsubishi Mirage are two popular compact hatchbacks that offer a blend of efficiency, practicality, and affordability. When it comes to choosing between these two vehicles, there are several key aspects to consider. This comprehensive comparison will delve into the performance, design, features, safety, and cost of ownership of the Ford Fiesta vs Mirage to help you make an informed decision.

Performance

Engine and Power

The Ford Fiesta offers a variety of engine options, including a 1.0-liter EcoBoost three-cylinder engine, a 1.6-liter naturally aspirated four-cylinder engine, and a 1.5-liter EcoBoost four-cylinder engine. The Mirage, on the other hand, comes with a single 1.2-liter three-cylinder engine.

In terms of power, the Fiesta’s 1.5-liter EcoBoost engine delivers the most output with 197 horsepower and 202 lb-ft of torque. The Mirage’s 1.2-liter engine produces a modest 78 horsepower and 74 lb-ft of torque.

Fuel Economy

Fuel efficiency is a crucial consideration for compact hatchbacks. The Fiesta’s 1.0-liter EcoBoost engine boasts an impressive EPA-estimated fuel economy of up to 33 mpg in the city and 43 mpg on the highway. The 1.6-liter engine offers slightly lower fuel economy at 28 mpg in the city and 37 mpg on the highway. The Mirage excels in fuel efficiency, delivering an EPA-estimated 36 mpg in the city and 43 mpg on the highway.

Design

Exterior

The Ford Fiesta features a sleek and sporty exterior with sharp lines and aggressive styling. The Mirage, on the other hand, has a more conservative and rounded design. Both vehicles offer a variety of exterior colors and optional features such as alloy wheels and fog lights.

Interior

The Fiesta’s interior is well-designed and ergonomically sound. It offers a comfortable and spacious cabin with a user-friendly dashboard and infotainment system. The Mirage’s interior is more basic and less refined, but it still provides ample space and essential amenities.

Features

Technology and Infotainment

The Fiesta’s infotainment system, SYNC 3, is one of the most advanced in its class. It features a user-friendly interface, voice control, and smartphone integration. The Mirage’s infotainment system, on the other hand, is more limited and lacks some of the features found in the Fiesta.

Safety Features

Both the Fiesta and Mirage offer a range of safety features to ensure the protection of passengers. The Fiesta comes standard with six airbags, a rearview camera, and driver-assist systems such as lane departure warning and automatic emergency braking. The Mirage also offers a comprehensive suite of safety features, including seven airbags, a rearview camera, and electronic stability control.

Cost of Ownership

Price

The Ford Fiesta’s starting price is slightly higher than the Mitsubishi Mirage. However, the Fiesta offers a wider range of trim levels and options, allowing buyers to customize their vehicle to their specific needs and budget.

Maintenance and Repair Costs

The Fiesta and Mirage have similar maintenance and repair costs. Both vehicles require regular oil changes, tire rotations, and brake inspections. However, the Fiesta’s more complex engine and technology may result in slightly higher repair costs in the long run.

Insurance Costs

Insurance costs for the Ford Fiesta and Mitsubishi Mirage vary depending on a number of factors such as driving history, location, and coverage level. However, both vehicles are generally considered to be affordable to insure.

Pros and Cons

Ford Fiesta

Pros:

• Powerful and fuel-efficient engines
• Sleek and sporty exterior
• Well-equipped and spacious interior
• Advanced infotainment system
• Comprehensive safety features

Cons:

• Slightly higher starting price
• More complex engine may lead to higher repair costs

Mitsubishi Mirage

Pros:

• Exceptional fuel economy
• Affordable starting price
• Spacious interior for its size
• Comprehensive safety features
• Low insurance costs

Cons:

• Less powerful engine
• Conservative and less stylish exterior
• Basic infotainment system

The Verdict

Ultimately, the choice between the Ford Fiesta and Mitsubishi Mirage depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you prioritize performance, technology, and a stylish design, the Fiesta is a compelling option. However, if you seek exceptional fuel economy, a budget-friendly price tag, and a spacious interior, the Mirage is an excellent choice.

Beyond Comparison: Factors to Consider

In addition to the key aspects covered in this comparison, there are other factors to consider when choosing between the Ford Fiesta and Mitsubishi Mirage:

• Mileage: The Fiesta and Mirage have similar mileage ratings, but the Mirage’s exceptional fuel economy may be more appealing to those who drive long distances frequently.
• Driving Experience: The Fiesta offers a more engaging and responsive driving experience, while the Mirage is more suited for urban commuting.
• Cargo Space: The Fiesta and Mirage offer comparable cargo space, but the Fiesta’s hatchback design provides more versatility for hauling bulky items.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Which vehicle has the better resale value?

A: The Ford Fiesta typically has a slightly better resale value than the Mitsubishi Mirage due to its stronger brand recognition and more desirable features.

Q: Is the Ford Fiesta more expensive to maintain than the Mitsubishi Mirage?

A: The Fiesta’s more complex engine and technology may result in slightly higher maintenance costs in the long run, but both vehicles have similar regular maintenance requirements.

Q: Which vehicle is more reliable?

A: Both the Ford Fiesta and Mitsubishi Mirage have good reliability ratings, but the Fiesta has a slightly better track record in terms of long-term durability.