Is this the new Mitsubishi Mirage?

Offering an early look at what we can expect to see in the automaker’s showrooms here sometime this fall, Mitsubishi‘s new subcompact made its North American debut at the 2013 Montreal Auto Show. Based on Mitsu’s Global Small Concept that was introduced at the 2011 Tokyo Motor Show, this diminutive 5-door/front-drive hatch is called the Mirage in many markets and will be known as the Space Star in Europe. However, it was presented in Canada without any name badge. Mitsubishi has confirmed that it plans to fill in that blank — as well as provide other U.S.-specific details on the vehicle — when the car makes its initial appearance here at the 2013 New York Auto Show in April.

Based on Mitsubishi’s Reinforced Impact Safety Evolution (RISE) body system and wrapped in aero-optimized bodywork, this youth-oriented, space-efficient newcomer will be fitted with a 1.2-liter/3-cylinder MIVEC engine that makes 74 horsepower and 74 lb-ft of torque in Canadian trim. Transmission choices include a 5-speed manual transmission or optional CVT automatic and the car is projected to deliver outstanding fuel economy numbers with either transmission.

"Wider than Chevrolet Spark, taller than Hyundai Accent and longer than Scion iQ," this new Mitsubishi has a 96.5-inch wheelbase and rides on 14-inch wheels wrapped in 165/65 tires. An impressive list of standard equipment and a high-value orientation also are part of its designed-in appeal. While the car’s official name and more trim/packaging information will be part of the New York reveal, pricing details aren’t likely to be released until closer to its on-sale date.