The design of the Mirage was centred around compactness, affordability, and high fuel efficiency. This is because it had to fit the needs of emerging markets for an affordable entry-level car and advanced markets for a fuel efficient car with low-CO2 emissions. On top of that, it needed to be easy to drive, easy to manoeuvre and with enough space for five adults.

The Mirage name was first used in a series which debuted in Japan in March 1978. These vehicles were focussed on resource, energy, space-saving and high-performance all in one compact package. The new Mirage concept inherits the essence of that series by getting better performance and function from a limited space.

We aimed for top-of-class fuel efficiency (Japan market version) of 30km per litre. This was achieved through a variety of measures, including meticulous attention to reducing weight throughout almost every part of the car. The Mirage also has greater rolling resistance and is highly efficient thanks to improvements to the engine, transmission, brakes and tyres, and an aerodynamic body that reduces air resistance and drag.