The Mitsubishi Mirage subcompact hatchback isn’t beloved among either critics or consumers. In fact, it is regularly lambasted and mocked. Yet, the Mirage occupies an important space in the automotive industry as one of the most affordable new cars available today.

So, for those looking for one of the cheapest ways to get around in a new car, which Mitsubishi Mirage trim is best? Here’s a look at the one trim favored most by consumers.

The 2024 Mitsubishi Mirage is available in four trims starting at $16,695 MSRP

The Mirage’s affordability comes into perspective by the model being offered in four trims, with none surpassing the $20,000 mark. The Mirage is available in the base ES trim, LE, BE (Black Edition), and SE trims with prices starting at $16,695.

The Mirage is powered by an underwhelming 78-horsepower three-cylinder engine paired with a continuously variable transmission, so those looking for some verve should seek an alternative.  

The ES features a 7-inch display, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity, Bluetooth, a four-speaker audio system and CD player. The Mirage rides on 14-inch steel wheels, and driver aids include cruise control, forward collision mitigation with pedestrian protection, and hill-start assist.

The LE model starts at $17,245 and includes 14-inch alloy wheels, halogen fog lights, and a chrome exhaust tip.

The BE, or Black Edition, is an appearance package based on the ES model. It includes all the features of the ES plus a black rear spoiler, red stitching on the seats and steering wheel, black mirror caps, red grill accents, other visual updates and automatic headlights.

The SE model tops the range at $18,595. Exterior features include 15-inch alloy wheels, LED headlights and running lights, keyless entry, and turn indicators on the outside mirrors. Inside, the ES sports synthetic leather/fabric seats, a driver seat armrest, leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob and push-button start. Additional driver aids include automatic headlights, lane-departure warning, and rain-sensing wipers.

The Mirage’s base trim is its most popular  

According to Edmunds, the base SE trim is the most popular trim for the 2024 Mitsubishi Mirage. This is fairly unsurprising given the Mirage’s focus on affordability. It also stands to reason budget-minded shoppers aren’t willing to dish out hundreds of dollars more for the limited upgrades of the LE, or over $1,000 more for the Black Edition that is equipped almost identically save for some visual upgrades.  

And with the SE approaching $19,000 it competes or surpasses the price of models that are far more upscale, more powerful and larger, including the Nissan Versa, Hyundai Venue, Kia Rio or Kia Soul.

Which Mirage trim do critics like best?

Buyers and automotive critics apparently agree—if you’re going to purchase a Mitsubishi Mirage, go for the cheapest model, the ES.

Car and Driver suggest the Mirage ES as its “reasonably well equipped” and springing for a higher trim puts it in the same price range as “far better vehicles from competitors.”

The Car Connection says the ES trim is the “best value” and also recommends the cheapest trim.  True Car says the ES is “priced to satisfy the most budget-conscious shoppers as comes with appealing features,” in suggesting the base model.

Ultimately, the Mirage can be considered extremely affordable among new cars, and there appears to be a consensus in keeping that way with buyers and critics drawn to its base trim.