Related bit of info that seems to corroborate CR's theory:
The Mitsu Mirage has the
highest owner loyalty in the econobox/entry level segment , meaning return customers (the yard stick CR is using when it talks about owner satisfaction).
Owners of both the CVT and 5-speed transmissions are
beating the EPA ratings on average, calculated from 3k+ fill-ups over 1,426,475 km / 886,371 miles of driving so far.
Ironically, CR
hates the Mirage. Hates, hates, hates it.