Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross: A real contender

These days Mitsubishi are enjoying considerable success, especially with the popular Outlander SUV. Now the new Eclipse Cross has entered the fray. The company describe this car as a mid-sized SUV, which is available in three trim levels – Eclipse Cross 2, 3 and 4, the latter being featured here.

On The Road

All versions of the Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross are powered by an all-new 1.5L turbocharged petrol engine. I liked this smooth unit very much; not a fast car by any means, it still delivers a punchy 161bhp and 250Nm (184lb/ft) of torque. It is driven through a new CVT gearbox with an ‘8 speed’ system. Manual shift doesn’t really bring much to the party but they are there if you want them. A ‘Sport’ mode livens things up a bit although this is not a car for sporting drivers. That’s not its forte. The Eclipse Cross comes with two or four-wheel drive, the latter incorporating the latest generation of Mitsubishi’s ‘Super All-wheel Control’ system that offers a choice of three advanced drive modes – Auto, Snow and Gravel. At the time of testing the weather was fine but this writer has confidence in Mitsubishi when it comes to safety and grip. Base price is just over £21,000 and the version featured here is around £28,000 depending on options. Good value.

The Interior

The Eclipse Cross is extremely well specified across the range. 

There’s a touch-pad controller, Smartphone Display Audio that is compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, rear view camera, DAB radio with six speakers, cruise control, climate control air conditioning, LED Daytime Running Lights, Bluetooth connectivity for hands-free calls. 

Safety

All versions of the Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross have Lane Departure Warning, Forward Collision Mitigation (that uses radar technology to detect a risk of collision) ABS, Active Stability Control, Hill Start Assist, Brake Assist, seven airbags, dusk and rain sensors and automatic operation of the headlamps’ dipped beam. Higher spec models offer adaptive cruise, electric seats, leather, Rear Cross Traffic Alert and more.

Looks

Many SUV-style vehicles can be a bit bland so it’s good to see that the Eclipse Cross has a touch of flair and individuality about it, with that wedge-shaped rear end enhanced by the rear light bar. That said, it has to be noted that, although the ride is generally good, the Eclipse Cross doesn’t win the prize when it comes to handling. Composed enough in general use, more spirited cornering will highlight minor shortcomings with body roll. Doesn’t put me off though; there’s enough positive attributes here to make the Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross a genuine contender.

Geoff Maxted