Re. the steering: keep in mind that Mitsu re-calibrated the Mirage's steering for the 2017 model year, and made it "normal". You need to know which year Mirage was being reviewed when you hear that comment.

See thread:
EPS (electric power steering) actively self-centers steering for 2017 (video)

Good luck with your Corolla!

(I'll be the last person to criticize someone for keeping an older car in serviceable shape... I still haven't pulled the trigger on a Mirage either! My $1000 Miata and Metro are doing the job ...for now.)