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.)
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View my fuel log 2014 Mirage ES 1.2 manual: 62.4 mpg (US) ... 26.5 km/L ... 3.8 L/100 km ... 74.9 mpg (Imp)