If affordability is your main concern, you may want to start looking at Mitsubishi models. Specifically, a good starting point is the Mitsubishi Mirage, which has made headlines for its ultra-low MSRP. However, the base trim of any automobile lacks many features we now commonly take for granted. Because of its base’s low price, a fully loaded Mirage is still quite affordable while providing most of the amenities you might look for in a car.

How much does a base trim model Mitsubishi Mirage cost?

With a starting MSRP of just $14,645, the ES 5MT trim of the Mitsubishi Mirage is dirt-cheap. This subcompact hatchback is incredibly affordable, beating most of its competitors in price. You’ll pay more for a Nissan Versa or a Kia Rio. Additionally, while the Chevrolet Spark is about $1,000 less expensive, you’re still getting a steal when talking about a sub-$15,000 car.

When you move up to the BE trim, you’ll start at $17,195. It’s a little pricier than the top trim of the Kia Rio ($17,190). The Nissan Versa top trim starts at over $18,000, and the Chevrolet Spark’s starts at $17,495, so it’s still quite a deal for a fully-loaded vehicle.

Mitsubishi is prioritizing affordability over luxury with the Mirage. So, you’re not going to be treated to the richest interior materials, best performance, or latest and greatest tech in the Mirage BE. Still, a fully loaded Mirage will get you where you’re going with the basic amenities you expect in a car.

What’s in the Mitsubishi Mirage’s BE trim?

Regardless of trim, the Mitsubishi Mirage’s main point of differentiation is affordability. That means, if you’re also looking for performance, style, and comfort, there are better options elsewhere. However, if you have a small budget and need to get around town, the Mirage can be your daily driver.

As per Car and Driver, the BE trim (and all lower-trim models) comes with a 1.2-liter engine that produces just 78 horsepower and 74 lb-ft of torque. Paired with a CVT automatic transmission, this underpowered engine won’t accelerate especially fast, and its engine is pretty noisy. However, the Mirage does boast a great fuel economy. You’ll get 36/43 mpg city/highway in a fueled Mirage, which is the best in its class.

However, even if its fuel economy boosts its utility as a daily driver, its interior does not. It sports a combination of fabric and hard plastics that don’t provide much comfort. It does have decent cargo space and front-seat headroom and legroom. Still, it’s tight in the back and a bad fit for taller drivers. Front row riders have access to a 7-inch touchscreen, Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, and a four-speaker audio system.

What Mirage accessories and options are available?

To add to the base Mirage model, Mitsubishi offers several packages that can enhance your driving experience. For example, for $395, you can add the Protection Value Package, which comes with a roadside assistance kit, front and rear mudguards, scuff plates, and a rear bumper protector. Or, for $155, you can treat yourself to the Welcome package, which includes a Touch Up paint pen, and carpeted floor mats.

The Mitsubishi Mirage also offers a Popular Value package. For $295, you can obtain a cargo mat, rear bumper protector, and exhaust finisher. Parking assistance sensors will run you $655. Elsewhere, if you’re looking for a high-quality sound system, you can purchase a Rockford Fosgate Premium Audio system for $595.

Finally, Mitsubishi also offers an armrest console for $190, front and rear mudguards for $155, and body side moldings for $145. You’re only looking at a few thousand more with all these extras, taking you to about $20,000. That makes a fully loaded new Mirage with all the trimmings very hard to beat on price alone. In every other aspect? Not so much.