Sixth Generation Mirage
| Sixth Generation Mirage | |
|---|---|
 | |
| Also called | LA/LB Mirage |
| Available in Australia | January 2013 (Hatchback) July 2014 (Sedan) |
| Body and chassis | |
| Body style(s) | 4 door sedan, 5 door hatchback. |
| Drive | Front-Wheel Drive |
| Powertrain | |
| Engine(s) | 1.2L EFI 12-valve DOHC 4A92 |
| Transmission(s) | F5BMD 5 speed manual, F1CJB CVT |
| Dimensions | |
| Length | 3710mm (Hatch), 4245mm (Sedan) |
| Width | 1665mm (Hatch), 1690mm (Sedan) |
| Height | 1500mm (Hatch), 1515mm (Sedan) |
| Kerb weight | 865Kg (Hatch), 940 Kg (Sedan) |
| Fuel capacity | 35L (Hatch), 42L (Sedan) |
| Chronology | |
| Predecessor | Colt (RG) |
The sixth-generation Mitsubishi Mirage—encompassing the LA and LB model codes—served as Mitsubishi's entry-level offering in Australia for nearly a decade, replacing the previous Colt (RG). Production switched from Japan to Thailand for the new vehicle. The hatchback arrived in January 2013 and remained on sale until late 2021. A slightly larger sedan variant joined the lineup in July 2014, though it was discontinued in late 2016 after just over two years due to low sales.
Throughout its production run, the Mirage was consistently one of Australia’s most affordable and fuel-efficient vehicles. At launch, it was priced at a competitive $12,990 driveaway. Its 1.2L three-cylinder engine delivered fuel economy that rivalled many hybrids of the era:
- Combined Cycle: 4.9L/100km
- Highway Cycle: 3.9L/100km
- City Cycle: 5.7L/100km
First Facelift (LA Series - MY16)
Released in January 2016 came a revised hatchback. It introduced a more refined exterior featuring a larger grille, projector headlights with LED daytime running lights, and LED taillights.
Under the skin, Mitsubishi addressed criticisms of the original model's handling by introducing:
- Revised spring rates and upgraded shock absorbers.
- An enhanced braking system with larger front discs and rear drums.
- Interior upgrades, including a new steering wheel and an optional 300W Rockford Fosgate audio system with Apple CarPlay integration.
Second Facelift (LB Series)
The LB Mirage launched in February 2020, bringing the model in line with Mitsubishi’s "Dynamic Shield" design language. The most significant upgrade was the addition of Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB) as standard, maintaining the car's relevance in a tightening safety market. The interior was further modernised with a standard 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system featuring Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
The End of Australian Sales
The Mirage was eventually withdrawn from the Australian market in late 2021. This was not due to a lack of demand, but rather the introduction of ADR 85/00 (Australian Design Rule 85). These new regulations mandated stricter side-impact crash protection, and Mitsubishi determined that re-engineering the ageing platform to meet these standards was not commercially viable.
Trim Levels
ES (Hatch and Sedan)
The entry-level model. At launch, it featured 14-inch steel wheels, manual air conditioning, a two-speaker audio system, Bluetooth, and power windows. With the LB update, it added Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB), a reversing camera, and a 7.0-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto as standard.
Sport (Hatch Only)
A mid-tier "value" trim that added 14-inch alloy wheels, a rear roof spoiler, and an upgraded four-speaker audio system.
LS (Hatch and Sedan)
The premium offering. It added 15-inch alloy wheels, front fog lights, climate control, dusk-sensing headlamps, rain-sensing wipers, and keyless entry with push-button start.
As part of the MY16 update, a 300W Rockford Fosgate premium audio system became an optional extra.
With the move to the LB model, it received Lane Departure Warning (LDW), Automatic High Beam and privacy glass.
Black Edition (Hatch Only)
The Black Edition was introduced as a short-run special model as part of the MY16 upgrade. It added black-painted 15-inch alloy wheels, black side mirrors, a black roof spoiler, and unique interior stitching to give the car a "sportier" look.
