Vehicle Segment:
Subcompact Hatchback / Sedan
Target Audience:
Budget-conscious consumers, small families, urban commuters, first-time car buyers.
Primary Competitors:
Chevrolet Sonic, Ford Fiesta, Honda Fit, Hyundai Accent, Kia Rio, Toyota Yaris.
Fuel Efficiency:
One of its primary selling points, often among the best in its class.
Affordability:
Low purchase price and competitive running costs.
Compact Size:
Easy to maneuver and park in urban environments.
Engine Mechanical:
Engine overhaul, cylinder head, pistons, crankshaft, lubrication system, cooling system, fuel injection system, timing belt/chain, emissions control.
Engine Electrical:
Ignition system, starter system, charging system, ECU diagnosis, sensor functions, wiring diagrams.
Transmission Manual:
Clutch system, manual transmission overhaul, gear shifting mechanisms, driveline.
Transmission Automatic:
Automatic transmission overhaul, torque converter, hydraulic control, TCM diagnosis, fluid management.
Suspension:
Front suspension components (struts, control arms, ball joints), rear suspension components (torsion beam, shocks), wheel alignment specifications.
Steering:
Power steering system (hydraulic or electric), steering column, steering gear, tie rods, troubleshooting.
Brakes:
Front and rear brake systems (disc/drum), ABS operation and diagnosis, brake fluid specifications, parking brake.
Electrical Body:
Lighting systems, power windows, door locks, mirrors, wipers, horn, interior electronics, body control module (BCM) functions.
HVAC:
Air conditioning system, heating system, ventilation, refrigerant type, troubleshooting, component replacement.
Safety Systems:
Airbag system (SRS) diagnosis and replacement, seatbelt mechanisms, related sensors.
Chassis Body:
Body panel removal and installation, structural components, corrosion protection, interior trim, exterior trim.
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, tire rotation, spark plug replacement.
Diagnostic Troubleshooting:
Step-by-step diagnostic procedures for common faults, symptom-based troubleshooting guides, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs).
Component Replacement:
Detailed instructions for replacing major components like engine, transmission, brakes, suspension parts, and electrical modules.
Rebuild Procedures:
Comprehensive overhaul instructions for engines and transmissions, including specifications and clearances.
Wiring Diagrams:
Complete electrical system wiring diagrams with component locations and wire identification.
Torque Specifications:
Accurate torque values for all critical fasteners.
Special Tools:
Identification and usage of specialized tools required for specific repairs.
Depth Level:
Comprehensive (covers everything from basic maintenance to full engine/transmission rebuilds and advanced diagnostics).
Engine Type:
Inline 3-cylinder, DOHC, MIVEC (Mitsubishi Innovative Valve timing Electronic Control)
Displacement:
1.2 Liters (1200 cc)
Horsepower:
Approx. 77-80 HP (varies slightly by market calibration)
Torque:
Approx. 77-80 lb-ft (varies slightly by market calibration)
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-point fuel injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline
Emission Control:
Catalytic converter, O2 sensors, EGR system (market dependent)
NHTSA Rating:
Varies by market and year; generally 4-star or 5-star ratings in frontal and side crash tests where tested. Refer to specific market reports.
IIHS Rating:
Varies by market and year; often receives 'Good' or 'Acceptable' ratings in crashworthiness tests. Refer to specific market reports.
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System
Ebs:
Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD)
Bas:
Brake Assist System (BAS)
Traction Control:
Traction Control System (TCS)
Stability Control:
Active Stability Control (ASC) or Electronic Stability Control (ESC)
Airbags:
Front airbags (driver and passenger), optional side airbags, optional curtain airbags.
Seatbelts:
Three-point seatbelts with pre-tensioners and force limiters.
Child Anchors:
ISOFIX/LATCH child seat mounting points.
Head Unit Options:
Base models typically feature a basic AM/FM/CD player with AUX input. Higher trims may offer touchscreen infotainment systems with Bluetooth connectivity, and optional navigation.
Connectivity:
Bluetooth for hands-free calling and audio streaming is common on mid-to-higher trims. USB ports are also usually present.
Parking Sensors:
Optional rear parking sensors available on some trims.
Backup Camera:
Optional or standard on higher trims in certain markets.
Keyless Entry:
Available on higher trim levels.
Push Button Start:
Available on higher trim levels with keyless entry.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first (refer to owner's manual for exact specification).
Air Filter Replacement:
Inspect every 7,500 miles, replace as needed (often recommended every 15,000-30,000 miles depending on driving conditions).
Spark Plug Replacement:
Typically around 60,000-100,000 miles, depending on plug type (Iridium recommended).
Transmission Fluid Change:
CVT: Inspect periodically, replace if milky or contaminated. Manual: typically around 60,000 miles.
Engine Oil Type:
API SN or ILSAC GF-5, SAE 0W-20 (check owner's manual for precise specification).
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 3.5 Liters (3.7 US Quarts) with filter change.
Coolant Type:
Mitsubishi DiaQueen Super Long Life Coolant (SLLC) or equivalent (typically a P-HOAT formulation).
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 (refer to owner's manual for exact specification).
Transmission Fluid Type Cvt:
Mitsubishi CVTF-J1 or equivalent.
Cvt Reliability:
Some early CVT units experienced premature wear or failure. Regular fluid changes with the correct fluid are crucial.
Engine Performance:
While generally reliable, the 1.2L engine is focused on economy, so acceleration can be leisurely, especially with a full load or on inclines.
Suspension Noise:
Occasional reports of front suspension noises (e.g., strut mounts) can occur with mileage.
Interior Rattle:
As with many budget-focused cars, some owners report minor interior trim rattles or squeaks.