The Mitsubishi Space Star, particularly the facelifted version introduced in 2019, 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 2019 facelift brought styling updates and refinements to the existing platform, enhancing its appeal to budget-conscious buyers seeking a reliable and compact vehicle.
Mitsubishi Space Star (Facelift 2019) Overview
The Space Star, known as the Mirage in some markets, is Mitsubishi’s entry-level hatchback. The facelifted 2019 model year brought subtle but noticeable changes to the exterior design, including a revised front grille, updated headlights, and a redesigned bumper. These alterations aimed to modernize the vehicle’s appearance and align it with Mitsubishi’s current design language. The core focus remained on providing a functional and economical transportation solution, making it a popular choice for urban commuters and first-time car buyers in Europe and other regions where it was offered.
Engine & Performance
The 2019 Mitsubishi Space Star 1.2 MIVEC is powered by a 1.2-liter, three-cylinder gasoline engine. This naturally aspirated engine produces 80 horsepower at 6000 rpm and 106 Nm (78.18 lb.-ft.) of torque at 4000 rpm. While not designed for outright performance, the engine provides adequate power for city driving and short highway trips. The engine’s relatively small displacement and three-cylinder configuration contribute to its fuel efficiency. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) takes 12.6 seconds, and it achieves a maximum speed of 180 km/h (111.85 mph). The powertrain is paired with a five-speed manual transmission, delivering power to the front wheels. The weight-to-power ratio of 11.1 kg/Hp and weight-to-torque ratio of 8.4 kg/Nm reflect the car’s focus on efficiency rather than performance.
Design & Features
The Space Star is a five-door hatchback with a practical and functional design. Its compact dimensions – measuring 3845 mm (151.38 in.) in length and 1665 mm (65.55 in.) in width – make it easy to maneuver in tight urban environments. The interior offers seating for five passengers, although rear passenger space is somewhat limited. The 2019 facelift included improvements to the interior materials and trim, enhancing the overall feel of the cabin. Standard features typically include air conditioning, power steering, and an audio system. Safety features, such as ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), are also included as standard equipment. The trunk offers a minimum capacity of 235 liters (8.3 cu. ft.), which can be expanded to 912 liters (32.21 cu. ft.) with the rear seats folded down. The Space Star prioritizes practicality and affordability, offering a no-frills but functional package for everyday use.
Technology and Efficiency
The 2019 Space Star incorporates Mitsubishi’s MIVEC (Mitsubishi Innovative Valve timing and lift Electronic Control) technology, which optimizes engine performance and fuel efficiency by controlling valve timing. The vehicle meets the stringent EURO 6d emission standards, demonstrating its commitment to environmental responsibility. The fuel tank capacity of 35 liters (9.25 US gal) provides a reasonable driving range. While not equipped with advanced infotainment systems found in more expensive vehicles, the Space Star offers essential features for a comfortable and convenient driving experience. The focus on lightweight construction, with a kerb weight of 886 kg (1953.3 lbs), further contributes to its fuel efficiency and maneuverability.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mitsubishi |
| Model | Space Star |
| Generation | Space Star (facelift 2019) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.2 MIVEC (80 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2019 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 12.6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 12.6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 12 sec |
| Maximum speed | 180 km/h (111.85 mph) |
| Emission standard | EURO 6d – TEMP – EVAP – ISC |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 11.1 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 8.4 kg/Nm |
| 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.) |
| 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 | 886 kg (1953.3 lbs) |
| Max. weight | 1340 kg (2954.19 lbs) |
| Max load | 454 kg (1000.9 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) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 200 kg (440.92 lbs) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 100 kg (220.46 lbs) |
| Permitted towbar download | 25 kg (55.12 lbs) |
| Length | 3845 mm (151.38 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 | 795 mm (31.3 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 |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Tires size | 175/55 R 15 |
| Wheel rims size | 5; 0 J x 15 |
