MITSUBISHI Eclipse Cross
The Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross is a compact crossover SUV available exclusively in a five-door body style. It is powered by a 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that produces 152 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque. This engine is paired with an eight-speed continuously variable transmission (CVT) featuring Sport Mode, providing smooth and efficient power delivery. The drivetrain layout includes standard all-wheel drive with Mitsubishi’s Super All-Wheel Control system. Fuel economy generally ranges around 25 to 26 miles per gallon combined, translating to real-world economy of about 25 MPG city and 26 MPG highway. Interior space accommodates five passengers with modest cargo capacity near 23.4 cubic feet behind the rear seats, which is average for the segment. Key safety features include multiple airbags (side, curtain, driver knee), ABS, electronic stability control, traction control, and a multi-view camera system.
Among its strengths, the Eclipse Cross boasts a balance of turbocharged power and fuel efficiency, along with Mitsubishi’s reputation for durable drivetrains and an appealing warranty of 5 years/60,000 miles. The Super All-Wheel Control system enhances traction in poor weather. However, it has some drawbacks: the 1.5L turbo engine is somewhat underpowered compared to rivals with larger engines or hybrid powertrains, and some reviewers note CVT noise and less refined ride quality. Resale value tends to be average within the compact SUV class, while reliability is considered good but not exceptional, with occasional reports of minor electronic glitches. Overall, it delivers solid value for buyers prioritizing AWD capability and a unique styling twist.
Key specs and highlights
The Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross powers all trims with a single 1.5-liter turbocharged inline-four engine producing 152 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque. This engine pairs exclusively with an eight-speed CVT that includes a Sport Mode, designed to optimize acceleration performance and fuel economy. The vehicle comes standard with all-wheel drive using the brand’s Super All-Wheel Control, which integrates brake, traction, and stability management systems to adapt to changing road conditions. The Eclipse Cross measures 179 inches in length, 71.1 inches in width, and 66.5 inches in height, with an 8.5-inch ground clearance.
Passenger capacity is five, with cargo space measuring approximately 23.4 cubic feet behind the rear seats. Notable technological features across trims include an adaptive cruise control, multi-view camera system, and various driver assistance options. Fuel economy ratings sit at about 25 miles per gallon combined, delivering a practical range for daily commuting and light adventure. The Eclipse Cross also includes a host of safety measures, such as multiple airbags, ABS with electronic brakeforce distribution, stability control, and traction control systems. These specs position the vehicle as a practical yet sporty compact crossover.
Driving experience
On the road, the Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross provides a comfortable ride that balances everyday usability with moderate sportiness. The turbocharged engine delivers adequate power for urban and highway driving, but it can feel strained under hard acceleration or when fully loaded. The CVT, while smooth, occasionally produces a noticeable droning sound during rapid throttle input, which some drivers may find distracting.
The vehicle’s handling benefits from the Super All-Wheel Control system, providing confidence and competent grip in variable road conditions such as rain, snow, or loose gravel. Steering feedback is light but precise enough for easy maneuvering in tight city spaces. The suspension setup favors comfort over sportiness, absorbing most road imperfections without harshness, though greater body roll may be evident in fast cornering.
The cabin is generally quiet at highway speeds, though engine noise can creep in during spirited driving. Seating is supportive and comfortable for both driver and passengers, with good visibility in all directions aided by large windows and well-positioned mirrors. The Eclipse Cross proves versatile for daily driving and light off-pavement excursions thanks to its thoughtful chassis tuning and drivetrain.
Trims and equipment
The 2025 Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross lineup includes ES, LE, SE, and SEL trims that progressively add features and enhancements. The base ES comes with essentials like the turbo engine, CVT, Super All-Wheel Control, 16-inch alloy wheels, and a touchscreen interface with smartphone integration.
Moving up to the LE adds convenience and comfort amenities such as heated seats, alloy wheel upgrades, and enhanced connectivity features. The SE trim introduces more premium touches, including larger wheels, upgraded exterior accents, and additional driver assistance functions. The top-tier SEL trim offers leather-appointed seating surfaces, a heated steering wheel, adaptive cruise control, multi-view cameras, paddle shifters, and unique styling highlights like LED lighting and chrome trim.
Must-have options for buyers often include advanced safety packages and technology upgrades that improve the overall driving experience and cabin convenience. The availability of several packages across trims allows customization tailored to individual priorities such as tech, luxury, or sport appearance.
Reliability and maintenance
The Eclipse Cross benefits from Mitsubishi’s generally solid reliability reputation, backed by a comprehensive 5-year/60,000-mile basic warranty. Common issues reported are limited, mostly involving minor electronics glitches or infotainment system quirks rather than major mechanical faults.
Routine maintenance intervals for oil changes, tire rotation, and brake inspections are standard, with relatively low cost for parts and service compared to some competitors. Buyers should be aware that the CVT may require service at manufacturer-recommended intervals to maintain optimal performance and longevity.
Overall, ownership costs remain moderate, and the vehicle fares well over time with responsible care. Checking for software updates and verifying condition of the turbocharging system on used models is advisable. Some used examples may have had recalls addressed, so prospective buyers should confirm these have been completed.
Fuel economy and running costs
Real-world fuel economy for the Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross hovers around 24 to 26 miles per gallon combined, depending on driving style and conditions. The turbocharged 1.5L engine is relatively efficient for the segment, translating into manageable fuel expenses for daily commuters.
Insurance premiums for this vehicle generally align with those of other compact SUVs with AWD, reflecting its safety features and moderate performance levels. Depreciation is somewhat typical for Mitsubishi, with initial value loss during the first few years being more pronounced than some rivals but stabilizing thereafter.
Maintenance, repair costs, and fuel expenses combine to produce a total running cost that is competitive and attractive for budget-conscious shoppers prioritizing reliability and efficiency. The Eclipse Cross strikes a practical balance without pushing the upper limits of performance or luxury.
Safety and driver assistance
The Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross comes equipped with a suite of safety features and driver assistance systems designed to protect occupants and aid driver awareness. Standard safety equipment includes multiple airbags—front, side, curtain, and knee airbags—along with anti-lock brakes and electronic stability control.
Advanced driver assistance systems available on higher trims or packages include adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, forward collision mitigation with pedestrian detection, and a multi-view camera system enhancing parking and low-speed maneuvering.
The overall safety profile of the Eclipse Cross is strong within its class, achieving solid performance in crash scenario tests and earning good reviews for its comprehensive active and passive safety technologies. These systems boost confidence for family use and everyday driving.
Model history and changes
Introduced in 2017, the Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross marked a return to the crossover SUV market with a nameplate inspired by the sporty Eclipse coupe of the past. It has undergone incremental updates, with the most notable refresh arriving in 2021, which refined exterior styling, upgraded infotainment, and enhanced safety technology.
The latest 2024-2025 generation features a more refined powertrain calibration and a focus on better integration of driver aids. Early models sometimes faced criticism for interior materials quality and transmission tuning, but these issues have been addressed in recent revisions.
Buyers keen on a balance of technology and reliability often prefer models from 2021 onward due to these improvements. The Eclipse Cross remains a unique option within the compact SUV segment thanks to its styling and AWD capability.
Competitors and alternatives
Competitors to the Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross include models like the Honda HR-V, Mazda CX-30, and Subaru Crosstrek. The HR-V offers slightly more cargo space and a reputation for practicality, while the CX-30 impresses with sporty handling and upmarket interior materials.
The Subaru Crosstrek is a close competitor when considering AWD capability, with a more established off-road pedigree and comparable powertrains. Compared to these, the Eclipse Cross stands out with standard advanced AWD and a turbocharged engine, though it trails slightly behind in interior refinement and acceleration smoothness.
Each alternative offers unique strengths, so prospective buyers should weigh preferences such as driving dynamics, styling, and features over pure numbers.
Buying advice and verdict
The Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross is best suited for buyers looking for a compact crossover with full-time all-wheel drive, decent turbocharged performance, and comprehensive safety tech at a competitive price. Its combination of fuel efficiency, warranty coverage, and traction control makes it ideal for urban dwellers in colder or wetter climates.
Key pros include its capable AWD system, user-friendly infotainment, and distinctive styling that differentiates it from bland segment peers. Weaknesses to consider are the somewhat noisy CVT under load and interior materials that feel less upscale than rivals.
Before purchasing, inspect the CVT for smooth operation, verify that any recall work has been completed, and test drive various trim levels to assess feature packages. Overall, the Eclipse Cross offers solid value for buyers prioritizing AWD and safety rather than outright luxury or power, making it a practical choice in the competitive compact SUV market.