The Eclipse Cross comes with just one available engine and transmission. Power comes from a 1.5L turbocharged 4-cylinder, making 152 horsepower. It also makes 184-lb-ft of torque, which Mitsubishi points out is more torque than either their 2.0L or 2.4L engines found in other Mitsubishi vehicles. Power is sent to the front wheels but all-wheel drive is optional. The only transmission option is of the continuously variable variety, though it does simulate an 8-speed transmission's worth of gear changes when in sport mode.
The Eclipse Cross comes in four different trims: the base trim, dubbed the ES 1.5T, comes with a standard 7-inch touchscreen, rearview camera, Bluetooth wireless connectivity, automatic climate control, LED running lights, heated mirrors, steering wheel mounted controls for the sound system and cruise control, power door locks and an alarm. Since the ES is the only trim that comes without all-wheel drive standard, Mitsubishi has helpfully offered it as a standalone option where it costs just $600.
The next trim level up is called the LE. The LE gets a more stylish exterior, thanks to 18-inch alloy wheels painted in black and unique black painted exterior accents. Inside, the LE gets an upgraded infotainment system with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto and SiriusXM compatibility.
The SE includes heated front seats, a push button start, keyless passive entry, alloy wheels (also 18-inches) a blind spot warning system, rear cross traffic alert, Mitsubishi Connect Telematics system and a leather wrapped steering wheel and shift knob.
The top-of-the-line SEL includes leather seating surfaces, LED headlights, a multi-view camera system to assist with parking and a heads-up display. A touring package is available on the SEL that includes a dual-pane power sliding sunroof, a Rockford Fosgate 710-watt stereo, a heated steering wheel and heated rear seats. Add everything up and a top-of-the-line trim including the touring package and the price tag still comes in under $32,000, making a fully loaded Eclipse Cross an outstanding value.
Swoopy Styling
Compact Outer Dimensions
Powertrain Warranty
Low Base Price
All-wheel Drive
Sporty Driving Characteristics
The Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross made its debut just two years ago and it continues without too many updates into this year. The biggest change to the lineup is the addition of front-wheel drive models for every trim level. Previously, front-wheel drive was only available on the base trim level. Now however, every version of the Eclipse Cross can be optioned with either front- or all-wheel drive. Mitsubishi also offers a few more standard features on a couple of models: the LE now comes with heated seats while the SE gets an updated set of new safety features.
The Eclipse Cross starts at $22,845, where it does battle with various other compact SUVs and crossovers, such as the Toyota RAV4 and the Honda CR-V. The Eclipse Cross undercuts both rivals on price while offering a stronger styling and a better powertrain warranty. The Eclipse Cross also uses relatively nice materials on the interior and offers some fairly uncommon options for the segment, such as heated rear seats. It all adds up to a compact crossover that's a nice place to spend some time, while still being capable of existing happily in the city or doing some light off-road work.
