When I get in the Mirage and drive around, I hear more road noise, wind noise, and the sounds of bumps/potholes. The soft suspension rolls around and the doors feel light/tinny when I close them.

By comparison, more expensive cars have sound deadening, firm suspension/tight steering, and heavy doors that make a satisfying sound. The expensive car accelerates faster and brakes better too.

Purely by "feel" the Mirage leaves the impression that it isn't as well-built/durable. Aside from obvious capacity limits I don't know of any reason the Mirage wouldn't be as long-lasting as other cars/SUVs, but I can understand why people might not believe that.

In the Mirage's favour: simple design (e.g. basic suspension), timing chain, not direct injected, not turbo, time-tested in foreign markets, 10 year powertrain warranty, Mitsubishi reputation.

Does anyone know any technical/specific reasons a "better" car would last longer than a Mirage, given appropriate use and care?