Pathological tests drives a cheap Mitsubishi

The one-star rating we are going to give the Mirage G4 is all you need to know. Look elsewhere!

The tiny 1.2 three-cylinder won't win you any races with just 74hp. It does however give you low running costs which is to be expected considering there really isn't much flexibility in this engine. We loathe the CVT gearbox because it robs the engine of the revs that you'll really need when trying to merge on faster paced roads, but like we've said earlier the running costs are what help make it more attractive but even then you'll be giving up a lot of comfort to save a few bucks at the pump. The Mirage G4 engine vibrates way too much at idle for our liking and the fact that it's just so odd to drive. The steering wheel minus well not even be connected to the front wheels. You can pretty much drive the Mirage like you're going to turn into a slight bend and the car will forever go straight. We haven't experienced steering this disconnected since the first generation Kia Rio. Driving the Mirage G4 isn't a chore if you stick to driving around the city which is where it feels at home. The ride comfort is actually more pleasant than we expected and while road and wind noise will be unwelcome companions, the engine noise is also something that won't go away even at relaxed speeds.

The infotainment system is pretty much straight forward, it isn't hard to use but it can get a little fiddly to operate while on the move. The front seats offer decent comfort and there's plenty of head and legroom, while those in the second row won't really have too much to complain about. It does offer decent space for four but we think that you'll be pushing it with a fifth person abreast. The boot space won't win you any bragging rights but it does offer more space than the hatchback, but it isn't as versatile as the hatchback. Visibility is decent too and with the back-up camera that our tester car came equipped with it does help take some of the sting out of parking in tight areas. We know that the car is already small but the hatchback is far superior when it comes to squeezing into tight spaces than the G4. Plus we find the styling just a tad more awkard than the hatchback which seems to wear the styling better.

There's only two trim levels to choose from with the G4. Entry-level ES comes with power windows and door locks, keyless entry with panic alarm feature and a USB port. You'll have to step up to the SE trim to get a 6.5 inch audio display with Bluetooth for your mobile device. 15-inch alloy wheels, push button ignition switch, rear view parking camera, auto-dimming interior mirror and automatic climate control with heated driver's seat. It seems as though the SE gives you the most bang for your bucks and doesn't really costs too much more over the ES trim, for that reason it is our pick of the range.

The Mirage G4 is cheap but not cheerful in anyway shape or form. It will get you from Point A to Point B but you'll wish that you picked a differ car to get from those two points because this isn't the vehicle to do that in. Basic transportation we'll give it that, but for everyone else you're better off paying the extra cash for a Chevy Sonic or a Toyota IA sedan.

Likes: It cheap to buy with low running costs. SE trim offers decent bang for your bucks. Ride comfort is actually quite good.

Dislikes: It's rubbish to drive, engine is weak and has idle vibration. Steering feedback is almost nonexistent and the styling is a little too goofy for our tastes.

[Updated] Goodbye Mitsubishi Lancer

2017 is the last year you can buy a new Mitsubishi Lancer. Should you still consider one is the real question here.

Performance: There are five trim levels and two engines to choose from. Standard ES comes with a 2-liter four-cylinder producing 148hp. The ES, SE and SEL trims come standard with a 2.4-liter four-cylinder pumping out 168hp and only all-wheel-drive can be had with it that engine. We’d say it’s best to avoid the 2-liter engine and go right for the 2.4 which seems to be the better value of the Lancer range.

On the road: The Lancer is very entertaining to drive as long as you stick with the SE or SEL trims. Both make the Lancer feel as engaging to drive as it's keen rivals the Ford Focus and Mazda3. However it isn't as sharp or posh as both; steering feel is decent and overall response of the 2.4 makes it well worth spending the extra cash for. The CVT transmission feels like it saps the engine power leaving you cold when you need it most and overpowering when you don't need it. Disappointingly the 2.4 does not offer a manual transmission. Wind and road noise are at acceptable levels.

Behind the wheel: There's plenty of adjustments for the driver's seat but sadly the steering wheel doesn't adjust for reach. Interior quality doesn't feel up to par with it's competition. The touch screen display feels dated and not as refined as we would like. Passenger space all round is decent and the boot offers enough space to satisfy most buyers needs.

Equipment: Standard ES trim offers keyless entry with anti-theft security system, cd-player power windows and an AUX input for your MP3 player. ES AWC offers heated front seats, digital HD radio and electronically controlled all-wheel-drive system. SE trim adds 18 inch alloy wheels, rear spoiler and Bluetooth connectivity for your mobile phone. Range topping SEL adds rain sensing windshield wipers, leather seating surfaces and auto headlights.

Buying & Owning: The standard Lancer seems like a good deal but we highly suggest going for the GT with the sporty looks and added features such as touch screen display and 18 inch alloy wheels. The premium isn't too much and overall impressions of it are good. Running costs should be about average among its competition but resale value is something to consider.

Quality: Mitsubishi has good quality cars. Reliability isn't going to be much of an issue. Only real issue here is locating a Mitsubishi dealership for repairs if you do come across such a problem. Interior quality isn't great although it does feel sturdy and long lasting. There are rivals that offer the best of both worlds and you really don't have to pick between the two.

Safety: Front and side curtain airbags come standard. As well as a traction control, anti-lock brakes with brake force distribution to help reduce braking distance in the case of an emergancy braking situation. Also a host of anti-theft aids come standard to keep theft away.

The Lancer is an attractive sedan that is often over looked by competition. It does offer an compelling package and is priced right with the heavy hitters such as the Ford Focus and Hyundai Elantra. However the styling inside out is dated and there's quite a few short comings with the Lancer that others seem to have mastered. If you want the Lancer for it's generous kit and reasonable price then this is the car for you. However keen rivals have all passed it by and it seems that the only logical reason to buy one is for the discounts.

Likes: Stylish exterior looks. Standard kit is generous with all-wheel-drive offered at a competitive price.

Dislikes: Lancer is getting discontinued this year. We thought it was going to go out with a bigger bang.

Devon's pick: The SEL won’t be as expensive as the price suggests given that the Lancer is being phased out. You should get one with a nice discount. Plus all-wheel-drive makes it even more enticing option.