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 engi…
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 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.
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.
The most common questions about engine codes, what they mean, how to find them and how this database works
The 3A92 is generally reliable when maintained properly, but early models (2013–2016) are prone to oil consumption due to piston ring design. Post-2017 revisions significantly improved durability. Regular oil changes with correct 0W‑20 or 5W‑30 oil and avoiding short-trip driving enhance longevity.
Top issues include excessive oil consumption (early builds), EGR valve clogging, timing chain tensioner wear, and throttle body carbon buildup. These are documented in Mitsubishi service bulletins ENG‑15‑003 and TIS maintenance advisories. Most are preventable with proper servicing.
The 3A92 powers the Mitsubishi Mirage (2013–2023), Space Star (2013–2023), and Attrage (2013–2020) globally. It is exclusive to Mitsubishi and not shared with other OEMs. All are 1.2L MIVEC petrol variants meeting Euro 5 or Euro 6 emissions.
Limited tuning potential due to naturally aspirated design and small displacement. ECU remaps yield modest gains (~5–8 kW), but require supporting mods like intake/exhaust. Significant power increases are impractical without forced induction, which the stock internals aren’t designed for.
Excellent for its class. In a Mirage (2018), typical consumption is ~5.8 L/100km (city) and ~4.3 L/100km (highway), or about 58 mpg UK combined. Real-world mixed driving typically achieves 50–60 mpg (UK), depending on conditions and maintenance.
Yes. The 3A92 is an interference engine. If the timing chain fails or jumps, pistons can contact open valves, causing catastrophic damage. Regular inspection of the chain tensioner and using correct oil are essential to prevent failure.
Mitsubishi specifies API SN/ILSAC GF‑5 0W‑20 or 5W‑30 synthetic oil. Always use this grade and change every 10,000 km (or 6 months) to protect the timing chain and minimise oil consumption, especially in early-build engines.
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