Next-Gen Mitsubishi Mirage To Morph Into A Nissan Juke-Based Crossover

Despite the increasing demand in crossovers and SUVs, Mitsubishi continues to sell the Mirage (aka Space Star) city car in global markets.

In production since 2012, it’s expected to be replaced next year by an entirely new model, Japan’s Response reports. Only its successor will supposedly grow in size and become a subcompact crossover.

Slotting under the Eclipse Cross, the next Mirage (if it indeed retains the same moniker) will rival vehicles such as the Hyundai Kona and Peugeot 2008. Inevitably, it will become a challenger to the likes of the second-gen Nissan Juke and Renault Captur, with which it will share the same platform and probably most technologies.

Power wise, the subcompact crossover is said to benefit from a small turbocharged 0.9-liter petrol engine,which should produce 95PS (94hp / 74kW). Mitsubishi isn’t apparently ready to ditch oil burners, thus, the next Mirage might gain a turbocharged 1.5-liter four-cylinder diesel, too.

Also Watch: Is The Mitsubishi Mirage America’s Worst New Car On Sale?

The powertrain family will very likely grow, and with the vehicle remaining on sale for a good chunk of the next decade, it will allegedly be offered with an electric powertrain as well, although the publication doesn’t give any details about it.

The Japanese website doesn’t say when the next Nissan Juke will arrive either, but reports have been talking about an entirely new one for a few years now. The thing is it hasn’t happened yet, and the crossover remains on sale in most markets outside North America, with the same funky styling and aging interior amenities.

Mitsubishi will reportedly go a step beyond transforming the Mirage into a crossover, as they’re apparently interested in a sporty supermini, too, to go after the Suzuki Swift, though it’s doubtful if it’ll make it to the U.S. market.