2012 Mitsubishi i-MiEV Review

Name: 2012 Mitsubishi i-MiEV
Brand: Mitsubishi
Price: 4368 USD
Rating: 4.6 (13 reviews)

Price Estimate: $4,368 - $6,600

2012 Mitsubishi i-MiEV ES 4dr Hatchback Exterior

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Mitsubishi i-MiEV for Sale

Edmunds' Expert Review

by the Edmunds Experts

Pros

Excellent all-electric efficiency
affordable price
typically cheaper to power than gas-only models
crisp acceleration
quiet cabin.

Cons

Shorter range than rivals
low-quality interior
tight cargo capacity for a hatchback
limited in-cabin storage.

What’s new

The 2012 Mitsubishi i is an all-new model.

Edmunds says

The electric-car segment gets its most affordable contender with the 2012 Mitsubishi i.

For sale near Ashburn, VA

8 listings

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2012 Mitsubishi i-MiEV
ES 4dr Hatchback
$2,999
- 66,000 miles
- 152 mi away
- Heated seats
- Tire Pressure Warnin...
- Alarm
- Rear Bench Seats
- Stability Control
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Located in Allentown, PA
Listing Information:
VIN:
JA3215H10CU025797
Stock:
025797
Certified Pre-Owned:
No
Listed since:
08-29-2025
2012 Mitsubishi i-MiEV
SE 4dr Hatchback
$5,400
- 43,356 miles
- 591 mi away
- Back-up camera
- Bluetooth
- Heated seats
- Navigation
- Tire Pressure Warnin...
Close
Located in Rolling Meadows, IL
1-Owner Vehicle!
Listing Information:
VIN:
JA3215H15CU018991
Stock:
018991
Certified Pre-Owned:
No
Listed since:
04-27-2023

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Vehicle overview

For something supposedly killed back in the 1990s, the electric car is certainly exhibiting a lot of postmortem vitality. The newest spark of life for the electric car segment is the 2012 Mitsubishi i, a subcompact that Mitsubishi is positioning as the value-priced choice for an all-electric car.

By value, we're talking about a purchase price of a bit more than $20,000 once the $7,500 federal tax credit is factored in (residents of certain states qualify for other credits as well). Of course, you'll likely be springing for a 240-volt home charger as well, so there's some more expense. Still, the Nissan Leaf is the next most affordable 2012 full-electric model in the segment, and it offers a post-tax-credit starting price in the high $20Ks. The Mitsubishi i is also cheaper than plug-in hybrids like the Prius Plug-In and Chevrolet Volt.

Another plus is that this Mitsubishi i delivers a thoroughly agreeable time behind the wheel, with crisp acceleration, responsive handling and a smooth ride. Other than the muted whir of its electric motor, there's little to set it apart from any gas-only subcompact. It'll cost you less to charge the i than it would to pay for gas, but keep in mind that these potential savings take a hit in states with tiered electricity rates that increase cost as you use more juice.

One of the Mitsubishi i's primary drawbacks concerns its size. There's not a lot of in-cabin storage space, and the i offers the least amount of cargo capacity in its segment. Then there's the matter of range. With just 62 miles between no charge and a full charge, the Mitsubishi i is tethered by the shortest range in the electric-car segment. In comparison, the Leaf's range is 73 miles, while the 2013 Ford Focus Electric promises 85-100 miles.

As it runs out of juice, the i will need to be charged, and doing so reveals another of its shortcomings: longish charge time relative to some rivals. This Mitsu goes from no charge to full charge in 7 hours using a 240-volt home charging unit, and while this is competitive with the charge time required of the Nissan Leaf, it falls short relative to the Focus Electric's claimed 3-4 hours.

All things considered, the i strikes us as a pretty niche-oriented offering. If you can afford it, the Nissan Leaf is a more useful and upscale electric car overall. Green-focused buyers in this price range who have longer commutes (or those who live in apartments, since the Mitsu's home charging unit isn't an option in that situation) will want to check out the Toyota Prius C hybrid or the diesel-powered Volkswagen Golf TDI. Still, if it fits your way of life, the 2012 Mitsubishi i is an agreeable choice, and it will certainly satisfy those looking to enter the electric-car segment in the most affordable way.

Performance & mpg

The 2012 Mitsubishi i is powered by a 49-kilowatt electric motor (66 horsepower and 145 pound-feet of torque) fed by a lithium-ion battery pack with peak storage of 16 kWh.

Driving range is an EPA-estimated 62 miles per charge, but real-world range can be significantly less, depending on driving style, traffic conditions, cruising speed, geography (uphill slopes will reduce range since the motor works harder) and battery age. In fact, even ambient temperature can affect cruising range, since extreme temperatures are detrimental to battery performance. The EPA has given the i an excellent energy efficiency equivalent rating (MPGe) of 126 mpg city/99 mpg highway and 112 mpg combined.

Safety

The 2012 Mitsubishi i comes standard with antilock brakes (front disc, rear drum), stability and traction control, front-seat side airbags and side curtain airbags.

Driving

Like all electric cars, the 2012 Mitsubishi i boasts a quiet cabin, which is the byproduct of an absence of recurring explosions from an internal combustion engine; the only sound from the electric motor is a whir that kicks in when you go heavy on the throttle. There's some wind, tire and road noise at higher speeds, but overall the cabin remains quiet enough to allow for easy conversation.

We achieved a top speed of 81 mph in the Mitsubishi i, which is slower than the Leaf's top speed of 90 mph. This top speed was enough to allow the i to keep up on the highway without any tense moments; still, this limitation underlines the fact that this Mitsu is better suited for city motoring than highway travel. As with other electrics, the i has ample pep off the line, allowing the car to easily get up to speed in metro traffic.

Despite its tall body, the Mitsubishi corners with poise. Three drive settings are offered. "Eco" reduces the rate of battery consumption to improve energy economy, while "B" increases regenerative braking to achieve the same result. The most natural-feeling setting is "D," which allows for full power and torque; in this setting, the i feels as responsive and engaging as any gas-only subcompact.

Interior

The Mitsubishi i's tall body offers up ample headroom, and while most people should find front legroom comfortable enough, keep in mind that it trails that of the Leaf, Focus Electric and Golf TDI. Rear legroom is a bit tight and the backseats are flat and not terribly supportive. With just 13.2 cubic feet of space behind the backseats, the i comes up short in cargo capacity relative to its rivals, though there's enough room back there to squeeze in golf clubs or a standard-sized suitcase. The picture improves with the rear seats folded; cargo capacity expands to a healthy 50.4 cubic feet.

Many hybrids and electric cars feature cabins loaded with cutting-edge style and tech, but the i isn't one of them. Hard plastics abound, and the plain, no-nonsense presentation of its dash and controls is more in keeping with that of your typical bargain-priced subcompact than anything else. At the same time, standard equipment includes a remote system that allows you to pre-activate the car's climate control and charging timer.

2012 Mitsubishi i-MiEV models

The 2012 Mitsubishi i is an all-electric four-door hatchback available in ES and SE trim levels.

Standard equipment on the ES includes 15-inch steel wheels, full power accessories, air-conditioning, 50/50-split rear seats that fold and recline, an onboard recharging system with a 120-volt portable charging cable, and a four-speaker sound system with a CD player and an auxiliary audio jack. Also included is a heated and height-adjustable driver seat, along with a remote system that pre-activates climate control and the charging timer.

SE models add 15-inch alloy wheels, foglamps, automatic headlights, special interior trim, upgraded seat fabric, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, a passenger vanity mirror and an eight-speaker sound system.

Both trims are available with a Cold Zone package that adds a battery warmer and heated outside mirrors. ES models may be purchased with a Level 3 quick-charging port, while SE models are available with a Premium package that includes a hard-drive-based navigation system, Mitsubishi's Fuse hands-free link system, steering-wheel-mounted audio controls and a quick-charging port.

Compare 2012 Mitsubishi i-MiEV trim levels

Owners' Opinions

What Owners Like

The 2012 Mitsubishi i-MiEV stands out with its affordability and impressive city-friendly design. Owners consistently appreciate its low running costs, noting that charging is significantly cheaper than fueling a traditional gasoline car, especially when taking advantage of special electricity rates. Its compact size is a significant advantage, making it easy to maneuver in tight parking spots and urban settings. Despite its small stature, drivers find it surprisingly roomy inside, with ample headroom and a decent cargo capacity when the seats are folded down. The instant torque from the electric motor provides a lively driving experience, particularly noticeable when pulling away from traffic lights. Many owners utilize it as a primary vehicle for short commutes and errands, emphasizing how it meets everyday needs efficiently. Additionally, the uniqueness of driving an i-MiEV often turns heads, garnering attention and sparking conversations.

Common Issues

The 2012 Mitsubishi i-MiEV presents a few challenges that owners frequently encounter. Range anxiety is a common concern, especially as the battery ages and capacity decreases, with some owners noting a notable drop in range over time. The limited range makes highway driving impractical and restricts the car's use to primarily urban environments. In colder climates, the need to use the heater can result in a significant reduction in driving range, sometimes as much as 30%, which is a frustrating limitation for those in colder regions. Parts availability has been an issue, with some owners experiencing delays when requiring replacements or repairs, suggesting that special orders are often necessary. The basic interior design, while functional, lacks the comfort and amenities found in more modern or higher-end vehicles, which may disappoint drivers looking for a more refined experience. Additionally, noise insulation could be better, as several owners report that outside noises are noticeably intrusive, particularly in traffic.

Final Takeaways from Everyday Drivers

The 2012 Mitsubishi i-MiEV is a practical choice for drivers who prioritize efficiency and ease of use in urban settings. Many owners find the vehicle reliable for daily commutes and appreciate the substantial savings in fuel costs compared to gas-powered alternatives. Despite its basic design, the i-MiEV performs well for short trips and city driving, with its nimble handling and ease of parking consistently highlighted as benefits. The absence of traditional gasoline engine maintenance is a relief to several users, as the simpler electric drivetrain reduces the need for repairs. However, the short driving range and limited highway capability mean it's best suited as a secondary car or for those with predictable local driving patterns. The roomy interior is a pleasant surprise, offering versatility with its fold-flat seats for bigger hauls. Owners often mention a sense of satisfaction and practicality in their everyday use, particularly for those who have adapted to the i-MiEV’s electric lifestyle.

2012 Mitsubishi i-MiEV Insights

Trim:

i-MiEV ES

Estimated Range Based on Age

Not available

Charging

No charging time information available

Hybrid Parts Warranty

8 yrs or 100,000 miles

According to GeoTab’s data, if the observed degradation rates are maintained, the vast majority of batteries will outlast the usable life of the vehicle.

Exceeded original 8 year warranty.

EV Tax Credits & Rebates

$100

Available Rebates. Restrictions apply.

Restrictions: Edmunds is partnering with Treehouse, an independent provider of home EV installation services. Edmunds visitors receive a $100 discount when they contract with Treehouse for their home charger installation. Discount excludes permit, hosted inspection, and load management devices. Valid for 30 days.
To learn more, visit https://treehouse.pro/edmundsdiscount/

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Cost to Drive

$64/mo

i-MiEV

$214/mo

Car Avg.

Monthly estimates based on costs in Virginia

Am I Ready for an EV?

EV ownership works best if you can charge at home (240V outlet)
Adding a home charging system is estimated to cost $1,616 in
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Reliability

The 2012 Mitsubishi i-MiEV has a 3 years / 36,000 miles basic warranty and 6 recalls. Below you’ll find our owner reviews.

Recalls

6 recalls found

Checking if a car has a recall is simple. Just type the car's VIN number into the NHTSA website (https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls). If there's an unrepaired recall, you'll see it there.

If a recall shows up, just call your local car dealer. They'll know about the recall and will work with the car maker to fix it for free (if the recall happened within 10 years of the car being first sold).

Recall Number:: 19V804000
Manufacturer Recall Number:: SR-19-002
Manufactured from:: 2011-10-28 to 2016-06-10
Number of vehicles affected:: 2108
Defect Description:: Mitsubishi Motors North America, Inc. (MMNA) is recalling certain 2012-2017 i-MiEV vehicles. Water may penetrate the brake assist vacuum pump, causing corrosion and a failure of the brake vacuum pump.
Defect Consequence:: Without the brake vacuum pump, the driver will experience a sudden loss of braking assist, lengthening the distance needed to stop the vehicle and increasing the risk of a crash.
Corrective Action:: MMNA will notify owners, and dealers will replace the brake vacuum pump, free of charge. The recall began January 7, 2020. Owners may contact MMNA customer service at 1-888-648-7820. MMNA's number for this recall is SR-19-002.

Recall Number:: 17V022000
Manufacturer Recall Number:: SR-17-001
Manufactured from:: 2011-10-28 to 2014-09-03
Number of vehicles affected:: 1964
Defect Description:: Mitsubishi Motors North America, Inc. (MMNA) is recalling certain 2012 and 2014 i-MiEV vehicles. These vehicles are equipped with certain air bag inflators assembled as part of the passenger frontal air bag modules used as original equipment or replacement equipment. In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the front air bags, these inflators may rupture due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to absolute humidity and temperature cycling.
Defect Consequence:: An inflator rupture may result in metal fragments striking the vehicle occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
Corrective Action:: MMNA will notify owners, and dealers will replace the front passenger air bag inflator, free of charge. The manufacturer has not yet provided a notification schedule. Owners may contact MMNA customer service at 1-888-648-7820. MMNA's number for this recall is SR-17-001.

Recall Number:: 15V594000
Manufacturer Recall Number:: SR-15-011
Manufactured from:: 2011-10-28 to 2012-09-07
Number of vehicles affected:: 13558
Defect Description:: Mitsubishi Motors North America, Inc. (Mitsubishi) is recalling certain model year 2014 Mitsubishi Mirage vehicles manufactured July 27, 2013, to November 20, 2013, and 2012 Mitsubishi i-MiEV vehicles manufactured October 28, 2011, to September 7, 2012. Due to an increased resistance in the impact sensor for the air bag system, in the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the frontal, side and/or curtain air bags when the SRS warning is illuminated, the frontal air bag may have a delayed deployment and/or the side and curtian air bag may not deploy at all.
Defect Consequence:: In the event of a crash, an air bag that does not deploy or deploys late, increases the risk of occupant injury.
Corrective Action:: Mitsubishi will notify owners, and dealers will replace the affected impact sensors, free of charge. The manufacturer has not yet provided a notification schedule. Owners may contact Mitsubishi customer service at 1-888-648-7820. Mitsubishi's number for this recall is SR-15-011.

Recall Number:: 14V522000
Manufacturer Recall Number:: SR-14-007
Manufactured from:: 2009-09-15 to 2014-03-25
Number of vehicles affected:: 1810
Defect Description:: Mitsubishi Motors North America, Inc. (Mitsubishi) is recalling certain model year 2010-2014 i-MiEV electric vehicles manufactured September 15, 2009, to March 25, 2014. Due to either software programming or corrosion caused by road salt, the brake vacuum pump may stop functioning.
Defect Consequence:: If the brake vacuum pump stops functioning, the distance needed to stop the vehicle may be lengthened, increasing the risk of a crash.
Corrective Action:: Mitsubishi will notify owners, and depending on the affected vehicle, dealers will either reprogram the brake vacuum pump controller, replace the brake vacuum pump or do both, free of charge. The recall began on October 24, 2014. Owners may contact Mitsubishi customer service at 1-888-648-7820. Mitsubishi's number for this recall is SR-14-007.

Recall Number:: 13V031000
Manufacturer Recall Number:: SR-13-001
Manufactured from:: 2011-12-02 to 2012-09-07
Number of vehicles affected:: 1402
Defect Description:: Mitsubishi Motors North America is recalling certain model year 2012 i-MiEV electric vehicles manufactured December 2, 2011, through September 7, 2012. The brake system vacuum pump may fail, causing the vacuum pump to be inoperable.
Defect Consequence:: If the vaccum pump system fails, it will reduce available brake power which would result in lengthened stopping distances, which may increase the risk of a vehicle crash.
Corrective Action:: Mitsubishi will notify owners, and dealers will replace the affected vacuum pumps free of charge. The manufacturer has not yet provided a notification schedule. Owners may contact Mitsubishi at 1-888-648-7820.

Recall Number:: 12V372000
Manufacturer Recall Number:: SR-12-003
Manufactured from:: 2011-11-04 to 2011-12-22
Number of vehicles affected:: 261
Defect Description:: Mitsubishi is recalling certain model year 2012 i-MiEV vehicles manufactured between November 4, 2011, and December 22, 2011. Incompatibility between the air bag sensors and the self-diagnostic software may deactivate the frontal and side airbag system. Should this occur, the SRS warning lamp would illuminate to alert the driver.
Defect Consequence:: The side and curtain air bags may not deploy in a crash for which those air bags were intended to deploy, increasing the risk of personal injury to the vehicle occupants.
Corrective Action:: Mitsubishi will notify owners, and dealers will replace the incompatible air bag sensors with new, compatible units, free of charge. Mitsubishi has not provided a notification schedule. Owners may contact Mitsubishi at 1-800-222-0037.

Warranty

3 years / 36,000 miles Basic Warranty

Basic Warranty: 3 years / 36,000 miles
Drivetrain Warranty: 5 years / 60,000 miles
Hybrid component Warranty: 8 years / 100,000 miles
Rust Warranty: 7 years / 100,000 miles

Mitsubishi i-MiEV Reviews

Owner Reviews

4.6

13 reviews

5(69%)

4(23%)

3(8%)

2(0%)

1(0%)

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2012 i-MiEV Features & Specs

Trim:

MSRP (New) Excludes Destination Fee	$29,125
EV Tax Credits & Rebates
Engine Type	Electric
Cost to Drive	$64/month
Seating	4 seats
Cargo Capacity All Seats In Place	13.2 cu.ft.
Drivetrain	rear wheel drive
Warranty	3 years / 36,000 miles

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Safety

Key safety features on the i-MiEV include:

Alarm
Tire Pressure Warning
Stability Control

NHTSA Overall Rating

The National Highway Transportation Safety Administration offers independent analysis.

Frontal Barrier Crash Rating
Overall4 / 5
Driver4 / 5
Passenger4 / 5
Side Crash Rating
Overall3 / 5
Side Barrier Rating
Overall3 / 5
Driver5 / 5
Passenger2 / 5
Combined Side Barrier & Pole Ratings
Front Seat5 / 5
Back Seat2 / 5
Rollover
Rollover4 / 5
Dynamic Test ResultNo Tip
Risk Of Rollover14.7%