Is the Mitsubishi Mirage worth buying if gas is expensive?

Yes — the Mitsubishi Mirage can make sense if gas is expensive, but mainly if your top priorities are low upfront cost and good fuel economy rather than comfort, power, or refinement.

If you’re considering one, the key question is whether its efficiency and low purchase price outweigh its compromises. It’s a very basic, small car, so it can be appealing as an inexpensive commuter, especially for city driving and short trips. But if you do a lot of highway driving, want a quiet cabin, or care about stronger acceleration and a more polished ride, it may not be the best fit.

When it can be worth it

• You want one of the cheapest ways to get into a small, fuel-conscious car.
• Most of your driving is around town.
• You care more about simple transportation than amenities or performance.

When it probably isn’t worth it

• You do a lot of highway driving or need confident passing power.
• You want a quiet, refined ride.
• Safety, comfort, and long-term satisfaction matter more than the lowest possible purchase price.

Bottom line: if gas prices are high and you mainly want a cheap commuter with good efficiency, the Mirage can be a reasonable buy. If you can stretch your budget, many shoppers will be happier long-term with a more refined subcompact or a used hybrid.