Mitsubishi Attrage Mk1 (2013-Present) Expert Review

Overall Rating

The Attrage is for the family man who cares more for km/l than km/h. Mr. Sensible will enjoy a smooth and comfortable ride, while saving money at the pumps. Will have to explain his purchase often though, because this is a B-segmenter with not much kerbside appeal.

Performance

80 horses from three cylinders doesn't sound sufficient, but the 1.2L MIVEC only needs to haul 905 kg (top spec SE), and it does a decent job. The CVT's smooth and easy character needs a progressive right foot, not stabs at the throttle, which brings plenty of noise. Drive it right and it's all right.

Ride & Handling

The Attrage is softly sprung and there's no hiding the body roll when you drive it hard on a B-road. Lean aside, grip is surprisingly decent and so is steering feel, although the rack is pretty slow, sacrificed for a tight turning radius. High speed stability not the best in class, but you shouldn't be going there often in an eco sedan.

Comfort

As mentioned, the CVT-equipped Attrage is best paired to a gentle right foot and a driver who maintains momentum - it's pretty loud when thrashed. Light and easy is the key. Suspension is comfort-oriented.

Safety

Two airbags, ABS and EBD across the board is the bare minimum. Not great, but Japanese B-segment rivals at the same price point don't offer more either.

Space

B-segment sedans have really grown in size lately, and rivals like the Honda City and Nissan Almera lead the space race. With decent rear legroom and a 450-litre boot, the Attrage is far from cramped, but the bar has been raised.

Value

Good. RM75k will buy you a new Honda City, but a "kosong" one that runs on steel wheels. That amount nets you the top spec Attrage SE with keyless entry/push start, auto air-con, DRLs and a 2-DIN touchscreen stereo with reverse camera. And there's the superb fuel economy that will save you money at the pumps - with his "hybrid driving mode" on, this writer achieved 18 km/l in mixed conditions.