The Mitsubishi Space Star (known as the Mirage in many markets, including North America) is a subcompact multi-purpose vehicle (MPV) produced by Mitsubishi Motors between 2013 and 2015. This generation, launched in April 2013, represented a return to the Space Star nameplate after a hiatus, though it was a fundamentally new vehicle compared to previous iterations. Designed as an affordable and fuel-efficient city car, the Space Star primarily targeted the European market, where demand for small, economical vehicles remained strong. While not officially sold in the United States under the Space Star name, the closely related Mirage was introduced to the US market in 2014, offering a similar value proposition.
Mitsubishi Space Star (2012): An Overview
The 2012 Mitsubishi Space Star, powered by a 1.2-liter engine, aimed to provide practical transportation with a focus on low running costs. It was available in both 3-door and 5-door configurations, catering to different lifestyle needs. The vehicle’s compact dimensions made it easy to maneuver in urban environments, while its relatively spacious interior offered comfortable seating for five passengers. The Space Star’s appeal lay in its simplicity, affordability, and fuel efficiency, making it a popular choice for first-time car buyers and those seeking a cost-effective second vehicle.
Engine & Performance
The Mitsubishi Space Star (2012) 1.2 was equipped with a 1.2-liter inline three-cylinder petrol engine, producing 80 horsepower at 6000 rpm and 106 Nm (78.18 lb.-ft.) of torque at 4000 rpm. This naturally aspirated engine featured multi-port fuel injection and a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain. Power was delivered to the front wheels via a continuously variable transmission (CVT). While not designed for outright performance, the engine provided adequate power for everyday driving. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) took 12.8 seconds, and the vehicle had a maximum speed of 173 km/h (107.5 mph). The 0-60 mph time was calculated at 12.2 seconds. A key selling point was its fuel economy, achieving a combined fuel consumption of 4.3 liters per 100 kilometers (54.7 US mpg or 65.7 UK mpg), with CO2 emissions of 100 g/km, meeting Euro 5 emission standards.
Design & Features
The 2012 Mitsubishi Space Star was a compact MPV, characterized by its functional and practical design. Available as a 3-door or 5-door hatchback, it offered a versatile interior layout. The vehicle’s exterior styling was relatively understated, prioritizing practicality over aesthetics. Inside, the Space Star provided seating for five passengers, with a focus on maximizing space within its small footprint. Standard features included ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) for enhanced safety. The suspension comprised an independent McPherson strut setup at the front and a torsion beam at the rear, providing a comfortable ride quality. The steering utilized a rack and pinion system for precise handling. The vehicle rode on 15-inch wheels with 175/55 R15 tires. The Space Star’s design emphasized affordability and functionality, making it a practical choice for urban commuters and small families.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mitsubishi |
| Model | Space Star |
| Generation | Space Star (2012) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.2 (80 Hp) CVT |
| Start of production | April, 2013 |
| End of production | 2015 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | MPV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 3/5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 5.1 l/100 km (46.1 US mpg, 55.4 UK mpg, 19.6 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 3.8 l/100 km (61.9 US mpg, 74.3 UK mpg, 26.3 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 4.3 l/100 km (54.7 US mpg, 65.7 UK mpg, 23.3 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 100 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 12.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 12.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 12.2 sec |
| Maximum speed | 173 km/h (107.5 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Power | 80 Hp @ 6000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 67.1 Hp/l |
| Torque | 106 Nm @ 4000 rpm (78.18 lb.-ft. @ 4000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine displacement | 1193 cm3 (72.8 cu. in.) |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Fuel tank capacity | 35 l (9.25 US gal | 7.7 UK gal) |
| Length | 3710 mm (146.06 in.) |
| Width | 1665 mm (65.55 in.) |
| Height | 1490 mm (58.66 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2450 mm (96.46 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 9.2 m (30.18 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | ICE, Front wheel drive |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Front suspension | Independent type McPherson |
| Rear suspension | Torsion |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Drum |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Tires size | 175/55 R15 |
| Wheel rims size | 15 |
The Mitsubishi Space Star (2012) 1.2 CVT, while not a performance vehicle, offered a compelling package of affordability, fuel efficiency, and practicality. Its success in the European market demonstrated the continued demand for small, economical cars, and its close relation to the North American Mirage further solidified its position as a globally relevant vehicle.
