Media reviews of the Mirage have slowed down since the Euro launch. (We're getting a break until the car finds its way into the hands of North American reviewers in a month or so.)

So it's interesting to see a comparison to the littlest Fiat pop up from down under, with an eye to evaluating their merits as city runabouts...

Pros ..

Mirage ES (1.2L, 5-spd)
 Fiat 500 "Pop" (1.4L 4-cyl, 5-spd)
better value for money more character in the styling inside & out
capped price servicing 4 cylinder is quieter and more refined than Mirage
Bluetooth with voice control and audio streaming (Fiat has phone only) better shift action
better warranty than 500 better handling, well sorted out suspension
best fuel economy / emissions quieter ride
good city maneuverability: tight turning circle, light steering smaller size = easier parking


Cons ...


Mirage ES (1.2L, 5-spd)
 Fiat 500 "Pop" (1.4L 4-cyl, 5-spd)
2 speaker stereo only available in 3-door
interior materials look/feel cheap only 2 rear seats, rear headroom tight
slow steering response at higher speeds tiny boot/hatch storage
"crashy" suspension noise over some bumps large turning circle for its size


Overall the Mirage is deemed to be less desirable because it lacks the personality of the Fiat, and some of its more city-friendly characteristics.

The base-model Mirage is undoubtedly the sensible choice - but it just isn't as fun, appealing or city-friendly as the tiny Italian.
Read the full review, more pics: http://news.drive.com.au/drive/motor...807-2rg1s.html

Previously, this reviewer compared Mirage to 3 different small cars, and the Mirage came out on top:
Thread: Australia 4-car review: Mirage, Micra, Alto, Up! (w/video - Drive/Canberra Times)