Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross
Purchase price from $27,795
Expert rating
4 reviews
Expert opinions about this car
Expert reviews
A
Autocar
Autocar's review highlights the Eclipse Cross's unique character and strong value proposition. The testers found the ride to be a bit choppy over poor surfaces, but the body control is decent, and it handles more confidently than some rivals. The 148bhp engine is not particularly strong, and the CVT saps performance, but the car feels quick enough in urban traffic. Inside, there's a good amount of space for four adults, and the rear seats slide for extra legroom or boot space. The build quality feels solid, though the cabin materials are not premium. Autocar notes the infotainment is a weak point, with a small screen and a fiddly controller. However, the standard safety equipment and the class-leading warranty (10 years in some markets) are major pluses. The mixed reviews from the British press may be because the car is set up differently there, but Autocar generally sees it as a competent and distinctive choice. It's not as sophisticated as a Volkswagen Tiguan or a Ford Kuga, but it's cheaper and more practical in some ways. Overall, it's a "worthy" if not exciting, compact SUV with a strong emphasis on reliability and peace of mind.
C
Car and Driver
Car and Driver's review of the Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross positions it as a polarizing compact SUV that appeals primarily to value-focused buyers. The publication praises the standard all-wheel-drive system—a rarity in the segment—which provides excellent traction in inclement weather and light off-road conditions. The turbocharged 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine delivers adequate acceleration, though the CVT (continuously variable transmission) is a major sore point; it drones under hard throttle and makes the powertrain feel laggy and noisy. Handling is safe but uninspired, with noticeable body lean in corners and a steering feel that is inconsistent at highway speeds. The interior is a mixed bag: the materials are hard plastics throughout, yet the front seats are supportive, and the rear seats actually slide and recline—an unusual feature that adds to practicality. The infotainment system is a dated touchpad interface that is distracting to use while driving, and the cargo area is small for the class. However, the 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty is excellent, and the base price undercuts most rivals. Overall, Car and Driver highlights this as a niche pick for those who prioritize warranty and AWD over refinement and tech.
M
MotorTrend
MotorTrend's review is more critical, calling the Eclipse Cross a dated throwback that lags behind the modern compact SUV segment. The publication's testers found the 1.5-liter turbo engine to be surprisingly punchy off the line but quickly runs out of steam at higher RPMs, and the CVT fails to mask the turbo lag. Acceleration to 60 mph took over 8 seconds in their tests—slower than most rivals. The handling is described as 'utilitarian' with a light steering feel that lacks feedback, though the AWD system does provide great grip in wet conditions. The interior is where the car loses major points: the layout is simple, but the touchpad controller for the infotainment is a major ergonomic failure, requiring too much attention to operate. The backseat is average, and the cargo area is small (22.6 cubic feet) compared to competitors like the Toyota Corolla Cross or Kia Seltos. MotorTrend also notes that fuel economy is mediocre at best, with an EPA estimate of 25/26 mpg combined, which is at the bottom of the segment. The only strong points are the exceptional warranty and a lower entry price. Overall, MotorTrend recommends looking elsewhere unless you absolutely need the warranty and AWD combo.
K
Kelley Blue Book (KBB)
Kelley Blue Book's expert review presents a balanced view, giving the Eclipse Cross a slightly above-average rating for its segment. KBB celebrates the standard all-wheel drive and the generous warranty as major advantages, calling the AWD system 'confident' in snow and bad weather. The turbo engine is praised for its smooth power delivery in normal driving conditions, though the CVT is noted to exhibit some droning when accelerating hard. The interior is described as 'functional but plain,' with a mix of materials that are acceptable for the price but not comparable to more modern competitors like the Hyundai Kona or Mazda CX-30. KBB appreciates the reclining rear seats and the standard safety suite. The touchpad infotainment system is called 'counterintuitive' and a significant downgrade compared to the simple touchscreen in lower trims. Fuel economy is a weak point, with KBB noting it trails most rivals. The review concludes that the Eclipse Cross is a good value for those who want AWD and a long warranty without spending a lot, but it's not a driving enthusiast's pick. KBB also highlights that resale values are average, and the lack of a hybrid option hurts its appeal in a growing market.
Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross financing
Review the estimated monthly payment, down payment, and financing terms for this model.
Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross financing