Mitsubishi i-MiEV

Overview: Is the Mitsubishi i-MiEV a Good Electric Car?

The Mitsubishi i-MiEV, sold in the U.S. for the 2012, 2014, 2016, and 2017 model years, represents one of the earliest mass-produced electric vehicles available to American consumers, along with the Nissan Leaf. Initially developed for the Japanese market, this compact electric hatchback aimed to provide an affordable and environmentally friendly urban transportation solution. As a pioneer in the modern EV landscape, the i-MiEV offers a unique perspective on the early days of electric mobility.

Note: Equipment, features, and trims can vary by model year. Always confirm these details when looking for used Mitsubishi i-MiEV cars for sale.

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Related: Which Years Of Used Mitsubishi i-MiEVs Are Most Reliable?

Key Features

The Mitsubishi i-MiEV offers:

• Five-door, city car (minicar) body style
• Two-row, four-passenger seating
• 100% electric powertrain
• 16 kWh lithium-ion battery pack
• Rear-wheel drive (RWD)
• Level 1 (120V) and Level 2 (240V) recharge capabilities
• Available CHAdeMO DC fast charging port (standard in later years)
• Regenerative braking system
• Electric air conditioning and heating

Trims

Mitsubishi offered the i-MiEV in two main configurations:

• ES: Base model with essential features
• SE: Added premium features and available quick-charge port (2012 only)

Comfort, Technology & Cargo

The i-MiEV's interior reflects its origins as a Japanese kei car, prioritizing space efficiency over luxury. The dashboard features a simple, functional layout with a digital speedometer and battery charge indicator taking center stage. Later models offered a touchscreen navigation system, bringing a touch of modernity to the otherwise basic cabin.

The tall, narrow body style provides surprisingly good headroom, though shoulder room can be tight for larger passengers. The upright seating position offers good visibility, a bonus for city driving. Cargo space is limited but usable, with 13.2 cubic feet behind the rear seats. The rear seats can be folded to expand cargo capacity to 50.4 cubic feet.

Review: Are Mitsubishi Cars Reliable?

How It Drives

The Mitsubishi i-MiEV delivers a driving experience emphasizing efficiency and urban agility over performance. Its electric motor produces 66 horsepower and 145 lb-ft of torque, driving the rear wheels. This setup allows the i-MiEV to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in around 13 seconds, with a top speed of about 80 mph.

While these figures may seem modest, the electric motor's instant torque delivery characteristic makes the i-MiEV feel peppy in city traffic. The rear-wheel-drive configuration and tight turning radius contribute to its nimble handling in urban environments.

The i-MiEV offers three driving modes: "D" for normal driving, "Eco" for maximum efficiency, and "B" for increased regenerative braking. The EPA-estimated range is 62 miles on a full charge, though real-world range can vary significantly based on driving conditions and the use of climate control.

Charging times vary depending on the method used:

• Level 1 (120V household outlet): 22.5 hours
• Level 2 (240V): 7 hours
• Level 3/DC fast charging (CHAdeMO): 80% charge in about 30 minutes

Safety

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) awarded the Mitsubishi i-MiEV a 4-star overall safety rating. However, NHTSA issued an advisory due to crash tests revealing that rear passengers are more vulnerable to injury.

Reviews

Mitsubishi i-MiEV reviews from consumers on Kelley Blue Book are notably favorable, with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5. Owners gave this EV high scores for reliability, value, and quality.

Learn More: Are Mitsubishis Good Cars? How To Make The Right Purchasing Decision

Mitsubishi i-MiEV FAQs

Is the Mitsubishi i-MiEV discontinued?

Yes, Mitsubishi discontinued the i-MiEV in the U.S. market after the 2017 model year.

How many miles can a Mitsubishi I MiEV last?

With proper maintenance, the i-MiEV's electric powertrain can last many years. However, the battery capacity may degrade over time, potentially reducing range. CoPilot marketplace data shows numerous older examples with over 50,000 miles.

Is the Mitsubishi I-MiEV fully electric?

Yes, the Mitsubishi i-MiEV is a 100% electric vehicle with no gasoline engine.

How much is a battery for a Mitsubishi I-MiEV?

Battery replacement costs can vary widely. While Mitsubishi hasn't published official replacement costs, estimates range from $5,000 to $10,000 for a new high-voltage battery pack.

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