The Mitsubishi Space Star, known as the Mirage in some markets, is a supermini hatchback produced by Mitsubishi Motors. The facelifted version launched in 2015 represented a significant update to the model, focusing on fuel efficiency and affordability. While not officially sold in the United States, the Space Star was a popular choice in Europe and other global markets as an entry-level vehicle, competing with models like the Renault Twingo, Fiat Panda, and Volkswagen Up!. This article details the 2015-2019 facelifted generation, specifically the 1.2 MIVEC (80 Hp) CLEARTEC variant.
Mitsubishi Space Star (Facelift 2015): An Overview
The Space Star, particularly the facelifted model from 2015, was designed to appeal to buyers seeking a practical and economical city car. The “CLEARTEC” designation indicated a focus on reduced emissions and improved fuel economy, aligning with increasingly stringent European emission standards. The vehicle aimed to provide a comfortable and reliable driving experience, prioritizing efficiency over outright performance. It served as Mitsubishi’s offering in the highly competitive supermini segment, offering a relatively spacious interior for its size and a competitive price point.
Engine & Performance
The 2015 Mitsubishi Space Star 1.2 MIVEC CLEARTEC is powered by a 1.2-liter, inline-three cylinder petrol engine. This naturally aspirated engine produces 80 horsepower at 6000 rpm and 106 Nm (78.18 lb.-ft.) of torque at 4000 rpm. The engine utilizes Mitsubishi’s MIVEC (Mitsubishi Innovative Valve timing and lift Electronic Control) technology, which optimizes valve timing for improved fuel efficiency and power delivery. The engine’s relatively small displacement and three-cylinder configuration contribute to its low fuel consumption. Power is delivered to the front wheels via a five-speed manual transmission. Performance figures include a 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) acceleration time of 11.7 seconds and a top speed of 180 km/h (111.85 mph). While not a performance-oriented vehicle, the engine provides adequate power for urban driving and short highway trips. The weight-to-power ratio is 10.6 kg/Hp, and the weight-to-torque ratio is 8 kg/Nm.
Design & Features
The Space Star is a five-door hatchback with a practical and functional design. The 2015 facelift brought subtle styling updates, including a revised front grille, redesigned headlights, and updated interior trim. The vehicle offers seating for five passengers, although rear passenger space is somewhat limited. The interior is designed with practicality in mind, featuring durable materials and a straightforward layout. Key features include air conditioning, power steering, and an audio system. Safety features, crucial for this segment, include ABS (Anti-lock Braking System). The Space Star’s compact dimensions make it easy to maneuver in tight urban environments. Trunk space is a respectable 209 liters (7.38 cu. ft.) with the rear seats up, expanding to 912 liters (32.21 cu. ft.) when the rear seats are folded down. The vehicle’s focus is on providing a comfortable and convenient driving experience for everyday use.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mitsubishi |
| Model | Space Star |
| Generation | Space Star (facelift 2015) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.2 MIVEC (80 Hp) CLEARTEC |
| Start of production | 2015 |
| End of production | 2019 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 4.8-5.1 l/100 km (49 – 46.1 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 3.7-3.9 l/100 km (63.6 – 60.3 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 4.1-4.3 l/100 km (57.4 – 54.7 US mpg) |
| CO2 emissions | 96-100 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 11.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 11.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 11.1 sec |
| Maximum speed | 180 km/h (111.85 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 10.6 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 8 kg/Nm |
| Power | 80 Hp @ 6000 rpm |
| Torque | 106 Nm @ 4000 rpm (78.18 lb.-ft. @ 4000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine displacement | 1193 cm3 (72.8 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 3 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 75 mm (2.95 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 90 mm (3.54 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 11:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Kerb Weight | 845-860 kg (1862.91 – 1895.98 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1340 kg (2954.19 lbs.) |
| Max load | 480-495 kg (1058.22 – 1091.29 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 209 l (7.38 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 912 l (32.21 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 35 l (9.25 US gal | 7.7 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 50 kg (110.23 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 200 kg (440.92 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 25 kg (55.12 lbs.) |
| Length | 3795 mm (149.41 in.) |
| Width | 1665 mm (65.55 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 1950 mm (76.77 in.) |
| Height | 1505 mm (59.25 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2450 mm (96.46 in.) |
| Front track | 1430 mm (56.3 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1415 mm (55.71 in.) |
| Front overhang | 745 mm (29.33 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 600 mm (23.62 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 150 mm (5.91 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 9.2 m (30.18 ft.) |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 5 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent, type McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Semi-independent, coil spring |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Drum |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 165/65 R14; 175/55 R15 |
| Wheel rims size | 4.5J x 14; 5.0J x 15 |
The Mitsubishi Space Star (facelift 2015) 1.2 MIVEC CLEARTEC offered a compelling package for buyers prioritizing fuel efficiency, affordability, and practicality in a compact hatchback format. While not a performance leader, it provided a reliable and economical transportation solution for urban environments.
