Mitsubishi resurrected a decade-old nameplate to launch its addition to the micro-mini frenzy for 2014, but with decidedly less focus on form than the rest of the pack. This Mirage continues to beat a dull drum on style, but the name holds real meaning, too. Promising a class-best 40 mpg combined out of its little 1.2-liter 3-cylinder, the 2014 Mitsubishi Mirage hatchback easily nets top economy chops while holding on to every par for its class in a bid to become the poster car captioned “Looks can be deceiving.” Offering up just over 8 cubic feet in the trunk before making use of the 60/40 split-folding rear bench for an untold maximum capacity (probably no more than 20 cubes), this 5-passenger Mirage isn't exactly taking the bigger-than-it-looks road, either. Nor is it any kind of a halo performer, requiring as much as 13 seconds to hit 60 mph, but placing those 14-inch wheels so close to each corner of this little 4-door certainly gives it a pleasantly zippy feel on urban roads. Unfortunately that also translates into a busy highway experience, with turbulence and a loose ride clearing the icing off this Mirage's commuter cake, but real-world drivers tend to call such performance words like "engaging" and "fun." Especially in a light little urbanite that doesn't need to hit the highway for 37 mpg, but fetches 44 mpg when it does. Squaring off at 74 horses and 74 lb-ft of torque through either a 5-speed manual or continuously variable transmission (CVT), the 2014 Mirage can achieve 60 mph from a standstill in 11 seconds with the manual. It may not be as big as the Ford Fiesta or Chevrolet Spark in the trunk, but it's lighter and often quicker, with a light steering feel and a good bit more ability to absorb bumps than either of that pair. Also unlike either of those, the Mirage comes equipped with automatic climate control, full power accessories, keyless entry and USB/iPod connectivity in its DE base trim. Moving up to the ES clinches alloys under the chassis sporting fog lights and chrome accents with the upgrade and features like cruise control, Bluetooth connectivity and a leather-wrapped steering wheel inside. Options also belie its budget pricing, with features like rear parking assist, LED interior lights and a navigation system up for grabs in either trim. With a full complement of 7 airbags regardless, Mitsubishi expects this Mirage to be recognized as a no-nonsense practical driver for everyone, and excepting its lack of all-wheel drive, the maker offers a promising vision in this debut to that very end.