Budget-friendly hatch match: Suzuki Swift vs. Mitsubishi Mirage

The Suzuki Swift and Mitsubishi Mirage are two popular compact cars that offer an affordable yet stylish and practical option for urban commuters and small families.

Let us compare and contrast the Suzuki Swift and Mitsubishi Mirage in various aspects, including design, performance, and safety features.

Dimensions

The Swift has an overall length of 3,840 millimeters (mm), an overall width of 1,735 mm, and an overall height of 1,495 mm. Its wheelbase is 2,450 mm long, while its ground clearance is 120 mm high.

Meanwhile, the Mirage measures 3,795 mm long, 1,665 mm wide, and 1,500 mm tall. Its wheelbase is similar to the Swift, however, it has a higher ground clearance of 160 mm.

Although the Swift is bigger in size, we give this round to the Mirage as it has a higher ground clearance, making it more suitable for any road condition.

Exterior

In terms of design aesthetics, both the Suzuki Swift and Mitsubishi Mirage have their unique appeal. The Swift features a sleek and sporty exterior, exuding a sense of youthful energy and modernity.

On the other hand, the Mirage sports a more understated and conservative design. Its clean lines and simple design give it a timeless look that appeals to those who prefer a more subtle approach.

Both cars offer a range of exterior features and enhancements to enhance convenience and style. The Swift comes with halogen multi-reflector headlights, LED fog lamps with daytime running lights, and 16-inch alloy wheels. The Mirage, while more basic in terms of features, still offers practical additions like 15-inch all-black alloy wheels and rear spoiler.

We give this round to the Swift as it features a more distinctive styling that will surely turn heads on the road.

Interior

In terms of cabin space, both the Swift and Mirage offer comfortable seating for occupants. While the Swift may feel slightly roomier, the Mirage still provides ample space for a small car. If you frequently carry passengers or have a small family, both cars can accommodate your needs.

When it comes to infotainment and connectivity, the Swift offers a user-friendly seven-inch touchscreen system with smartphone integration options such as Apple Carplay and Android Auto. The Mirage, while not as advanced, still offers basic connectivity features such as Bluetooth, USB ports, and Mirror Link, ensuring you stay connected on the go.

The Swift also wins this round as it is designed with a more spacious cabin and modern interior features.

Engine

The Swift is powered by a 1.2-liter engine that produces 81 horsepower (hp) and 113 Newton-meters (Nm) of torque. The engine is mated to a continuously variable transmission (CVT).

A 1.2-liter engine also powers the Mirage. It churns out up to 76 hp and 100 Nm of torque. It is paired to either a five-speed manual or CVT, depending on the variant.

Since it comes with more transmission options, we give this round to the Mirage.

Safety

When it comes to safety, both the Swift and Mirage have got your back.

Both hatchbacks come with a robust body structure, crumple zones, and multiple airbags strategically placed to cushion you in case of a collision.

However, the Swift comes with additional features such as anti-lock braking system, electronic brakeforce distribution, and rear parking sensors, and reverse camera.

Since it comes with more safety features, we also give this round to the Swift.

Variants and pricing

The Swift's lone variant, the GL CVT, is priced at P989,000.

Meanwhile, the Mirage G MT retails for P711,000, while the G CVT is priced at P772,000.

Since it gives customers more options to choose from and comes in a cheaper price, we give this round to the Mirage.

Verdict

Since the Swift and the Mirage each won three rounds, we conclude this battle with a tie. The Swift features a more distinctive exterior, a more modern interior, and more advanced safety features, while the Mirage has a higher ground clearance, more transmission options, and cheaper pricing.

Whichever one you choose, rest assured that you are stepping into a compact car that delivers on its promises and ensures convenience on your everyday journey.

Photos from Suzuki Philippines and Mitsubishi Motors Philippines Corporation

Also read:

From classic to cutting-edge: Suzuki Swift through the years

Here’s what makes Mitsubishi Mirage perfect for city driving

Mighty mini hatchbacks: Suzuki S-Presso vs. Mitsubishi Mirage