Hi,
I'm from Southern California & bought my Mirage last week. I got the DE model w/ ES alloy wheels & bluetooth for $14k total out the door. I felt this vehicle offered the most "car for the money" considering all of the features that come standard like remote keyless entry. I must say that the gearing on the Mirage is great for city driving and even merging on the CA freeways, however, it'd be nice if 5th was a bit taller for increased mpg when cruising long distances. My main concern thus far is related to the long-term satisfaction I'll experience with this car. I've previously only owned Honda & Toyota vehicles w/ my last car being a 2000 Toyota Echo that recently wouldn't pass smog but was still running great w/ ~250k mi on the odo. That car was pretty much bullet-proof.
Looking forward to learning more about my new car!
Thank you,
Mike