The Mitsubishi 3A92 is a 1,198 cc, inline‑three naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 2013 and 2023. It features dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), 12 valves, and Mitsubishi’s MIVEC variable valve timing system, delivering outputs of 59–66 kW (80–90 PS) and 106–122 Nm of torque. MIVEC optimises valve lift and timing for improved fuel economy and responsiveness.
Fitted to models such as the Mitsubishi Mirage (HA/HC), Space Star, and Attrage, the 3A92 was engineered for urban efficiency and low-cost ownership without sacrificing drivability. Emissions compliance was achieved through precise electronic throttle control, cooled exhaust gas recirculation (EGR), and a close-coupled three-way catalytic converter, meeting Euro 5 and later Euro 6 standards depending on model year and market.
One documented concern is excessive oil consumption in early-build units (2013–2016), highlighted in Mitsubishi Service Bulletin ENG‑15‑003. This issue stems from suboptimal piston ring tension and oil control land design, leading to increased blow-by. From 2017 onward, Mitsubishi implemented revised piston and ring packs to mitigate this condition.
Production years 2013–2015 meet Euro 5 standards; 2016–2023 models comply with Euro 6 depending on market (Japan Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism Type Approval #MLIT‑A3A92‑2015).
The Mitsubishi 3A92 is a 1,198 cc inline‑three naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for subcompact hatchbacks and sedans (2013–2023). It combines DOHC architecture with MIVEC variable valve timing to deliver responsive low-end torque and urban fuel efficiency. Designed to meet Euro 5 and Euro 6 emissions standards, it balances cost-effective ownership with modern drivability.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,198 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol (Unleaded) | |
| Configuration | Inline‑3, DOHC, 12‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 75.0 mm × 90.0 mm | |
| Power output | 59–66 kW (80–90 PS) @ 6,000 rpm | |
| Torque | 106–122 Nm @ 4,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Multi-point fuel injection (MPFI) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 5 (2013–2015); Euro 6 (2016–2023) | |
| Compression ratio | 10.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven DOHC | |
| Oil type | API SN/ILSAC GF‑5, SAE 0W‑20 or 5W‑30 | |
| Dry weight | 82 kg |
The MIVEC system provides smooth low-RPM response ideal for city driving but requires adherence to 10,000 km oil change intervals to maintain valve train longevity. Early 3A92 engines (2013–2016) are prone to oil consumption due to piston ring design; post-2017 units feature updated rings per Mitsubishi ENG‑15‑003. Use of 0W‑20 or 5W‑30 ILSAC GF‑5 oil is critical to reduce friction and protect the chain-driven valvetrain. The absence of turbocharging simplifies maintenance, but the EGR system must be inspected periodically to prevent carbon buildup and idle instability.
Oil Specs: Requires API SN/ILSAC GF‑5 (0W‑20 or 5W‑30) per Mitsubishi Owner’s Manual. Not compatible with ACEA C2/C3 low-SAPS oils.
Emissions: Euro 5 certification applies to 2013–2015 models (MLIT Type Approval #MLIT‑A3A92‑2015). Euro 6 compliance confirmed for 2016–2023 builds under EU Regulation (EC) No 715/2007.
Power Ratings: Measured under ISO 1585 standards. Output variance reflects regional calibration differences (Mitsubishi PT‑2022).
Mitsubishi Technical Information System (TIS): Docs ENG‑3A92‑SPEC, ENG‑15‑003
Japan Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism (MLIT) Type Approval #MLIT‑A3A92‑2015
EU Regulation (EC) No 715/2007 on emissions
ISO 1585:1996 Road vehicles — Engine test code
The Mitsubishi 3A92 was used across Mitsubishi's Global Small Car platform with transverse mounting and no external licensing. This engine received platform-specific adaptations—revised intake manifolds in the Attrage and updated engine mounts in the Space Star—and from 2017 the facelifted Mirage adopted updated piston rings and EGR calibration, creating minor service part distinctions. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the left side of the cylinder block near the transmission flange (Mitsubishi TIS ENG‑3A92‑ID). The 8th digit of the VIN indicates engine displacement ('3' for 1.2L). Early models (2013–2016) use black valve covers with silver timing cover; post-2017 units have all-black covers. Critical differentiation: engines built before 06/2016 use piston part number MR951312; later units use MR951315 with improved oil control rings (Mitsubishi SB ENG‑15‑003).
The 3A92's primary reliability risk is excessive oil consumption in pre-2017 builds, with elevated incidence in high-mileage or hot-climate use. Mitsubishi internal field data (2016) indicated up to 15% of early engines consumed >0.5 L per 1,000 km, while EU consumer reports cite EGR-related rough idle as a secondary concern. Short-trip driving and infrequent oil changes accelerate ring coking, making oil quality and service adherence critical.
Analysis derived from Mitsubishi technical bulletins (2015–2020) and EU consumer safety agency failure statistics (2016–2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about MITSUBISHI 3A92.
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