2019 Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross
Mitsubishi is on a roll these days. Sales are up. Business is good. The vehicles are getting better.
A great example of this upswing at Mitsubishi is their latest compact SUV – the Eclipse Cross. It is a sporty number made for active lifestyles and gadget lovers.
We had a chance to sample the Eclipse Cross in one of their SEL models with the Touring Package. We wanted to see if Mitsubishi is heading in the right direction with this compact SUV.
The design starts out back with its coupe-like roofline. The Eclipse Cross features a split rear window, where there is a panel from below the spoiler at the edge of the roofline. The taillights frame the “fastback” edge of the liftgate and splits the two rear glass panes. The side profile of the roof only shows the glass for each door, though the “C” pillar is not too wide or narrow for a blind spot.
Up front the Eclipse Cross has a contemporary front end, with a sharp angle for the grille and headlamps. The lower grille offers a large air duct with Mitsubishi’s signature bumper design. Recessed on the sides are a couple of driving lamps – the turn signals and the fog lights. Overall, this is the most compelling design Mitsubishi has presented to us in a long time.
The same can be said of the interior. It is different than any Mitsubishi before it, thanks to an improved layout and more intuitive controls. The instrumentation is easily readable, while the infotainment screen is now a tablet-like piece attached to the top of the center stack. A track pad on the console controls the functions of this new screen. The Eclipse Cross now includes compatibility with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
Seating for up to five people is more comfortable, with better support for front seat occupants. Cargo space is ample, with 22.6 cubic feet behind the rear seats. That space is expandable to 48.9 cubic feet with the rear seats down.
Underneath the hoof of the Eclipse Cross is a new 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine. With 158 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque on tap, the Eclipse Cross has plenty of punch and performance to boot. The continuously variable transmission works superbly with this engine and Super All-Wheel Control adds better traction in every condition and surface. For fuel economy, we averaged 24.5 MPG.
One thing Mitsubishi engineered for its new Eclipse Cross is a suspension that handles like no other vehicle in its class. Its cornering ability will excite even everyday drivers. The suspension system also responds to road conditions and hazards extremely well, while providing a solid ride.
The brakes are good with a solid pedal feel and stopping power. The steering is also sharper than the rest of the Mitsubishi family. In all, the Eclipse Cross offers a better driving experience in its class.
Selecting the SEL’s Touring Package adds key driver assistance features that are very useful. These features include Forward Collision Mitigation, Lane Departure Warning, Adaptive Cruise Control, and Automatic High Beams.
Pricing for the Eclipse Cross starts at $23,295. Our tester was the top-of-the-line SEL with the Touring Package had a sticker price of $32,015.
The Eclipse Cross puts Mitsubishi into a very competitive SUV/crossover segment. Its direct challengers include the Nissan Rogue Sport, Jeep Compass, Subaru Crosstrek, Chevrolet Equinox, Mazda CX-5, Hyundai Tucson, and Kia Sportage.
However, the Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross is the brightest star in their lineup right now. It is a fun-to-drive, sporty compact SUV. Perhaps this should be your choice for your active lifestyle or small family.
Story Credits: Car Soup Editors