The Mitsubishi Space Star, particularly the facelifted version introduced in 2015, is a supermini hatchback primarily aimed at the European market. While not officially sold in the United States, it represents a significant offering in the affordable and fuel-efficient city car segment. Positioned below the larger Mitsubishi Mirage, the Space Star focuses on practicality, low running costs, and ease of maneuverability. The 2015 facelift brought styling updates and refinements to the existing model, enhancing its appeal to budget-conscious buyers seeking a reliable and economical vehicle.
Mitsubishi Space Star (Facelift 2015): An Overview
The Space Star, known as the Mirage in some markets, is a product of Mitsubishi’s strategy to offer a range of compact and efficient vehicles. The facelifted 2015 model year brought subtle but noticeable changes to the exterior design, including a revised front fascia and updated interior trim. The 1.0 MIVEC engine variant, producing 71 horsepower, was a popular choice due to its focus on fuel economy and suitability for urban driving conditions. This generation of Space Star was produced from 2015 to 2019, serving as a key model in Mitsubishi’s European lineup.
Engine & Performance
The heart of the 2015 Mitsubishi Space Star 1.0 MIVEC is a 999 cc inline-3 cylinder petrol engine. This naturally aspirated engine delivers 71 horsepower at 6000 rpm and 88 Nm (64.91 lb.-ft.) of torque at 5000 rpm. While not designed for outright performance, the engine provides adequate power for city driving and shorter journeys. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) takes 13.6 seconds, and 0 to 60 mph is achieved in approximately 12.9 seconds. The engine’s power-to-weight ratio is 11.9 kg/Hp, and its torque-to-weight ratio is 9.6 kg/Nm. The engine features a multi-port fuel injection system and a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain, contributing to its efficiency. Maximum speed is rated at 172 km/h (106.88 mph). The engine is paired with a 5-speed manual transmission, directing power to the front wheels.
Design & Features
The 2015 Space Star is a five-door hatchback, offering seating for five passengers. Its compact dimensions – 3795 mm (149.41 in) in length, 1665 mm (65.55 in) in width, and 1505 mm (59.25 in) in height – make it easy to maneuver in congested urban environments. The vehicle’s design prioritizes practicality and functionality. The interior is designed to be spacious for its class, with a trunk capacity ranging from 235 liters (8.3 cu. ft.) with the rear seats up to 912 liters (32.21 cu. ft.) with the rear seats folded down. Safety features include an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS). The Space Star’s focus is on providing a comfortable and economical driving experience, making it a popular choice for first-time car buyers and those seeking a reliable city car. The kerb weight of 845 kg (1862.91 lbs) contributes to its fuel efficiency.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mitsubishi |
| Model | Space Star |
| Generation | Space Star (facelift 2015) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.0 MIVEC (71 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2015 |
| End of production | 2019 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 5 l/100 km (47 US mpg, 56.5 UK mpg, 20 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 3.6 l/100 km (65.3 US mpg, 78.5 UK mpg, 27.8 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 4.2 l/100 km (56 US mpg, 67.3 UK mpg, 23.8 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 96 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 13.6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 13.6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 12.9 sec |
| Maximum speed | 172 km/h (106.88 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 11.9 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 9.6 kg/Nm |
| Power | 71 Hp @ 6000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 71.1 Hp/l |
| Torque | 88 Nm @ 5000 rpm (64.91 lb.-ft. @ 5000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine displacement | 999 cm3 (60.96 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 3 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 75 mm (2.95 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 75.4 mm (2.97 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 11.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Kerb Weight | 845 kg (1862.91 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1290 kg (2843.96 lbs.) |
| Max load | 445 kg (981.06 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 235 l (8.3 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.) |
| 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.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | 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 |
| Wheel rims size | 4.5J x 14 |
In conclusion, the 2015 Mitsubishi Space Star 1.0 MIVEC represents a practical and economical choice for buyers in the European supermini segment. Its focus on fuel efficiency, compact size, and affordability made it a popular option for urban commuters and those seeking a reliable and low-cost vehicle.
