The Good
The 2016 Mitsubishi i-MiEV's primary advantage is its efficiency and status as a zero-emissions vehicle appealing to environmentally conscious buyers. Practically, it offers very low running costs due to its all-electric powertrain. While not known for thrilling performance, its compact size makes it easy to maneuver in urban environments. It was one of the most affordable new EVs at the time appealing to budget-conscious buyers.
The Bad
The 2016 Mitsubishi i-MiEV suffers from a very limited driving range compared to newer EVs. Its performance is lackluster, especially when accelerating. Interior materials are basic, and the ride quality can be harsh. Battery degradation is a significant concern for used models, impacting range and overall performance. The charging time is also relatively long on a standard 120V outlet.
2016 Mitsubishi i-MiEV: Quick Overview
- Engine Options: Single electric motor
- Horsepower: 66 hp
- Fuel Economy: 126 MPGe (city), 99 MPGe (highway), 112 MPGe (combined) – These are EPA estimates and can vary based on driving conditions.
- 0-60 Times: Approximately 13-15 seconds. Its acceleration is slow compared to most gasoline-powered vehicles.
- Towing Capacity: Not applicable, the i-MiEV is not designed for towing.
- Trim-Level Features (ES):
- Standard features include:
- Air conditioning
- Power windows and door locks
- Heated front seats
- A six-speaker audio system with USB port
- 15-inch alloy wheels
- CHAdeMO fast-charging port
- Optional features were limited, generally focusing on accessories like floor mats or cargo nets.
- The infotainment system is basic, lacking advanced features like Apple CarPlay or Android Auto.
- Safety features include standard airbags and antilock brakes but lack many modern driver-assistance technologies.
The i-MiEV's focus was on affordability and simplicity, reflected in its limited features and performance specifications.
2016 Mitsubishi i-MiEV Specifications
Vehicle Information
| Year | 2016 |
| Make | Mitsubishi |
| Model | i-MiEV |
| Trim | - |
| Style | - |
| Type | Hatchback |
| Category | Subcompact Car |
Manufacturing Details
| Made In | Japan |
| Manufacturing City | KURASHIKI |
Dimensions
| Doors | 5-Door |
| Curb Weight | 1169.81 kg |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | 1510.01 kg |
| Overall Height | 161.54 cm |
| Overall Length | 367.79 cm |
| Overall Width | 158.5 cm |
| Wheelbase Length | 255.02 cm |
| Standard Seating | 4 |
Engine & Performance
| Engine | Electric |
| Engine Size | - |
| Engine Cylinders | - |
| Transmission | 1-Speed Automatic |
| Transmission Type | Automatic |
| Transmission Speeds | 1-Speed |
| Drivetrain | Rear-Wheel Drive |
Additional Features
| Anti-Brake System | 4-Wheel ABS |
| Steering Type | Rack & Pinion |
Pricing
| Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) | $22,995 USD |
| Invoice Price | $22,500 USD |
| Delivery Charges | $850 USD |
Vehicle History Report
Specifications
History
Events
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Listings
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Analysis
What Problems Does the 2016 Mitsubishi i-MiEV Have?
Other frequently reported problems include issues with the charging system, particularly with the onboard charger failing or experiencing slow charging speeds. Some owners have also reported problems with the vehicle's climate control system, specifically the heater not working effectively in cold weather, which can significantly impact range due to increased energy consumption.
There have been recalls related to the i-MiEV, including issues with the brake vacuum pump, which could affect braking performance. Owners should check with Mitsubishi or the NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) to verify if their vehicle has any outstanding recalls.
Long-term reliability is a general concern, as the i-MiEV is an older EV model. Replacement parts may become harder to find, and the cost of repairing or replacing the battery pack can be substantial. Before purchasing a used i-MiEV, it's crucial to have the battery's health assessed by a qualified technician.
How long will the 2016 Mitsubishi i-MiEV last?
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
Driver-assistance features are minimal. It includes standard features like anti-lock brakes (ABS) and electronic stability control (ESC). However, it lacks advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) such as lane departure warning, blind-spot monitoring, or automatic emergency braking, which are common in newer vehicles.
Safety features include front and side airbags, as well as side curtain airbags.
Crash-test ratings for the i-MiEV vary depending on the source. The IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety) gave the i-MiEV marginal scores in some crash tests. NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) ratings can be consulted for specific crash test results.
Overall, the i-MiEV's tech and safety features are dated compared to contemporary vehicles. Its primary focus was on providing basic transportation rather than advanced technology or safety.
What Colors Options are Available?
Exterior Colors
Interior Colors
2016 Mitsubishi i-MiEV Prices and Market Value
2016 Mitsubishi i-MiEV Cost of Ownership
2016 Mitsubishi i-MiEV Fuel Efficiency
2016 Mitsubishi i-MiEV Safety Rating
IIHS
2016 Mitsubishi i-MiEV Warranty
Basic
Powertrain
Rust
2016 Mitsubishi i-MiEV Insurance
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 2016 Mitsubishi i-MiEV Compare to Other Hatchback?
Reliability has been a concern for the i-MiEV, particularly regarding battery degradation, whereas the LEAF has a better track record, though it's also susceptible to battery issues. In terms of features, the LEAF offered more advanced options, such as a navigation system and a more sophisticated infotainment system.
Alternatives to the i-MiEV include used Nissan LEAF models, which offer better range and features for a similar price. If a buyer prioritizes a very small size, a used smart fortwo electric drive could be considered, but its range is even more limited. For buyers seeking a more modern and capable EV, it's worth exploring newer, used electric vehicles, even if they come at a slightly higher price point. The added range and features often justify the increased cost.
Ranks #15 Hatchback
| 1 | 2023 Toyota Corolla Hatchback | (0.0★) |
| 2 | 2023 Honda Civic Type R | (1.0★) |
| 3 | 2023 BMW i4 | (0.0★) |
| 4 | 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class | (0.0★) |
| 5 | 2016 Ford Focus Electric | (0.0★) |
| 6 | 2023 Audi A7 | (0.0★) |
| 7 | 2023 Nissan LEAF | (0.0★) |
| 8 | 2022 Chevrolet Bolt EUV | (4.0★) |
| 9 | 2022 Hyundai Ioniq Plug-In Hybrid | (0.0★) |
| 10 | 2023 Jaguar I-PACE | (0.0★) |
| 11 | 2023 Tesla Model S | (5.0★) |
| 12 | 2022 Porsche Panamera | (0.0★) |
| 15 | 2016 Mitsubishi i-MiEV | (4.0★) |
Final Verdict: Is the 2016 Mitsubishi i-MiEV a Good Hatchback?
morgan90 on November 3, 2019
The perfect city carBefore this car I had 2 current generation Mirages. I could easily get 40-50, 60 mpg if I tried. They were extremely economical cars. That being said, I have noticed a significant savings with the iMiEV. 90% of the time I charge it at home with the standard charger and I have not noticed a difference in my electric bill. I also drive a lot more than most people who own these cars (15k mi/yr). It is literally the most perfect city car, with it's compact size, excellent visibility, and it has a surprising amount of pep for a 66 hp car. This car is designed for city driving and in heavy stop and go traffic you can drive all day long (not really of course lol) while not adding pollutants to the air. It was not designed for much highway use and therefore is horrid for highway driving. The range plummets. Don't plan on trips of more than 30 mi for winter highway driving with the heater on. There is no cruise control and it is not at all smooth and shakes at speeds north of about 60mph. Again, it is a city car, so I am not at all complaining. The interior is simply amazing as far as passenger room and cargo room. It feels like a minivan, although significantly narrower. I love how simple it is and doesn't have a sea of buttons like most newer cars do. With the rear seats folded it is like a mini minivan. The cargo area is massive for such a small car and rivals a lot of small SUVs and crossovers. It is a flat area that does not dip down from the bumper and the wheels are below the cargo area, unlike the Leaf, which has a very choppy cargo area. Because it is a very tall car the cargo area has about a 36" height. I know this car gets a lot of hate for many reasons including the styling. It's different and personally I love it. I regularly meet people for my job and I tell them you can not miss my car, it will be the most unusual in the parking lot. If I could design a perfect car it would be this with about twice the range and cruise control, and push button start (I do miss that from the Mirage). Please make a 2nd generation iMiEV, Mitsubishi!
morgan90 on November 3, 2019
The perfect city carBefore this car I had 2 current generation Mirages. I could easily get 40-50, 60 mpg if I tried. They were extremely economical cars. That being said, I have noticed a significant savings with the iMiEV. 90% of the time I charge it at home with the standard charger and I have not noticed a difference in my electric bill. I also drive a lot more than most people who own these cars (15k mi/yr). It is literally the most perfect city car, with it's compact size, excellent visibility, and it has a surprising amount of pep for a 66 hp car. This car is designed for city driving and in heavy stop and go traffic you can drive all day long (not really of course lol) while not adding pollutants to the air. It was not designed for much highway use and therefore is horrid for highway driving. The range plummets. Don't plan on trips of more than 30 mi for winter highway driving with the heater on. There is no cruise control and it is not at all smooth and shakes at speeds north of about 60mph. Again, it is a city car, so I am not at all complaining. The interior is simply amazing as far as passenger room and cargo room. It feels like a minivan, although significantly narrower. I love how simple it is and doesn't have a sea of buttons like most newer cars do. With the rear seats folded it is like a mini minivan. The cargo area is massive for such a small car and rivals a lot of small SUVs and crossovers. It is a flat area that does not dip down from the bumper and the wheels are below the cargo area, unlike the Leaf, which has a very choppy cargo area. Because it is a very tall car the cargo area has about a 36" height. I know this car gets a lot of hate for many reasons including the styling. It's different and personally I love it. I regularly meet people for my job and I tell them you can not miss my car, it will be the most unusual in the parking lot. If I could design a perfect car it would be this with about twice the range and cruise control, and push button start (I do miss that from the Mirage). Please make a 2nd generation iMiEV, Mitsubishi!
morgan90 on November 3, 2019
The perfect city carBefore this car I had 2 current generation Mirages. I could easily get 40-50, 60 mpg if I tried. They were extremely economical cars. That being said, I have noticed a significant savings with the iMiEV. 90% of the time I charge it at home with the standard charger and I have not noticed a difference in my electric bill. I also drive a lot more than most people who own these cars (15k mi/yr). It is literally the most perfect city car, with it's compact size, excellent visibility, and it has a surprising amount of pep for a 66 hp car. This car is designed for city driving and in heavy stop and go traffic you can drive all day long (not really of course lol) while not adding pollutants to the air. It was not designed for much highway use and therefore is horrid for highway driving. The range plummets. Don't plan on trips of more than 30 mi for winter highway driving with the heater on. There is no cruise control and it is not at all smooth and shakes at speeds north of about 60mph. Again, it is a city car, so I am not at all complaining. The interior is simply amazing as far as passenger room and cargo room. It feels like a minivan, although significantly narrower. I love how simple it is and doesn't have a sea of buttons like most newer cars do. With the rear seats folded it is like a mini minivan. The cargo area is massive for such a small car and rivals a lot of small SUVs and crossovers. It is a flat area that does not dip down from the bumper and the wheels are below the cargo area, unlike the Leaf, which has a very choppy cargo area. Because it is a very tall car the cargo area has about a 36" height. I know this car gets a lot of hate for many reasons including the styling. It's different and personally I love it. I regularly meet people for my job and I tell them you can not miss my car, it will be the most unusual in the parking lot. If I could design a perfect car it would be this with about twice the range and cruise control, and push button start (I do miss that from the Mirage). Please make a 2nd generation iMiEV, Mitsubishi!
morgan90 on November 3, 2019
The perfect city carBefore this car I had 2 current generation Mirages. I could easily get 40-50, 60 mpg if I tried. They were extremely economical cars. That being said, I have noticed a significant savings with the iMiEV. 90% of the time I charge it at home with the standard charger and I have not noticed a difference in my electric bill. I also drive a lot more than most people who own these cars (15k mi/yr). It is literally the most perfect city car, with it's compact size, excellent visibility, and it has a surprising amount of pep for a 66 hp car. This car is designed for city driving and in heavy stop and go traffic you can drive all day long (not really of course lol) while not adding pollutants to the air. It was not designed for much highway use and therefore is horrid for highway driving. The range plummets. Don't plan on trips of more than 30 mi for winter highway driving with the heater on. There is no cruise control and it is not at all smooth and shakes at speeds north of about 60mph. Again, it is a city car, so I am not at all complaining. The interior is simply amazing as far as passenger room and cargo room. It feels like a minivan, although significantly narrower. I love how simple it is and doesn't have a sea of buttons like most newer cars do. With the rear seats folded it is like a mini minivan. The cargo area is massive for such a small car and rivals a lot of small SUVs and crossovers. It is a flat area that does not dip down from the bumper and the wheels are below the cargo area, unlike the Leaf, which has a very choppy cargo area. Because it is a very tall car the cargo area has about a 36" height. I know this car gets a lot of hate for many reasons including the styling. It's different and personally I love it. I regularly meet people for my job and I tell them you can not miss my car, it will be the most unusual in the parking lot. If I could design a perfect car it would be this with about twice the range and cruise control, and push button start (I do miss that from the Mirage). Please make a 2nd generation iMiEV, Mitsubishi!
morgan90 on November 3, 2019
The perfect city carBefore this car I had 2 current generation Mirages. I could easily get 40-50, 60 mpg if I tried. They were extremely economical cars. That being said, I have noticed a significant savings with the iMiEV. 90% of the time I charge it at home with the standard charger and I have not noticed a difference in my electric bill. I also drive a lot more than most people who own these cars (15k mi/yr). It is literally the most perfect city car, with it's compact size, excellent visibility, and it has a surprising amount of pep for a 66 hp car. This car is designed for city driving and in heavy stop and go traffic you can drive all day long (not really of course lol) while not adding pollutants to the air. It was not designed for much highway use and therefore is horrid for highway driving. The range plummets. Don't plan on trips of more than 30 mi for winter highway driving with the heater on. There is no cruise control and it is not at all smooth and shakes at speeds north of about 60mph. Again, it is a city car, so I am not at all complaining. The interior is simply amazing as far as passenger room and cargo room. It feels like a minivan, although significantly narrower. I love how simple it is and doesn't have a sea of buttons like most newer cars do. With the rear seats folded it is like a mini minivan. The cargo area is massive for such a small car and rivals a lot of small SUVs and crossovers. It is a flat area that does not dip down from the bumper and the wheels are below the cargo area, unlike the Leaf, which has a very choppy cargo area. Because it is a very tall car the cargo area has about a 36" height. I know this car gets a lot of hate for many reasons including the styling. It's different and personally I love it. I regularly meet people for my job and I tell them you can not miss my car, it will be the most unusual in the parking lot. If I could design a perfect car it would be this with about twice the range and cruise control, and push button start (I do miss that from the Mirage). Please make a 2nd generation iMiEV, Mitsubishi!
Eugene S
Eugene is an automotive enthusiast with over 15 years of experience in the used car market. As a writer at VINCheck.info, he brings deep industry insight and a passion for cars, helping readers make smart, informed decisions. Eugene has written hundreds of used car reviews and is known for breaking down complex automotive topics into clear, actionable advice. Over the years, he has driven and worked on a wide range of vehicles—starting with tuning street cars in his early days and eventually focusing on performance upgrades and reliability improvements. Today, he specializes in evaluating used vehicles through the lens of real-world ownership and enthusiast needs. A longtime fan of Porsche, Eugene especially appreciates vehicles that blend durability with driving enjoyment.