Mitsubishi has rolled out its first all-new model in a long time with the Eclipse Cross, a compact crossover that revives a nameplate last seen on a coupe and convertible that were discontinued a few years back.
It’s not a common practice to stick a familiar name on an all-new vehicle, but these are new times in which cars are quickly being pushed aside by utility vehicles like this one, so it’s a good move for Mitsubishi, a company that has struggled to find ways to boost its brand image in recent years.
The Eclipse Cross is a four-door crossover that, from certain angles, looks like more conventional models like the Honda CR-V, but what Mitsu calls coupe-like styling lends its back end an unfortunate resemblance to the Pontiac Aztek of the early 2000s.
At least it stands out from the crowd in the way that upscale models like the BMW X4 and X6 and Mercedes-Benz’s GLC and GLE Coupe do. Mitsubishi is among the first to bring that form-over-function aesthetic to an entry-level crossover segment.
Power comes from a 1.5L turbocharged four-cylinder engine that makes 152 hp and 184 lb-ft of torque and is mated to a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT) that can emulate the performance of an eight-speed gearbox. In Canada, all Eclipse Cross trims come standard with Mitsu’s Super All-Wheel Control AWD system.
Instead of replacing either of Mitsubishi’s existing crossover models (the RVR and Outlander) the Eclipse Cross puts this automaker into a new segment, a move that should help improve its profile; Mitsu actually makes pretty durable cars, but whether it’s because of poor marketing or some other less tangible reason, not many Canadian buyers wind up in the brand’s showrooms.
Eclipse Cross offerings begin with the ES trim, with its heated side mirrors, rear spoiler, 18-inch wheels, colour driver information display, Bluetooth, 7.0-inch infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone integration support, backup camera and automatic climate control.
Move up to the SE model to get blind spot warning with cross traffic alert and lane change assist, electric parking brake, power-folding side mirrors, dual-zone climate control, leather-trimmed steering wheel and shifter and rain-sensing wipers.
The SE Tech package adds forward collision mitigation, lane departure warning, adaptive cruise, automatic high beams and an auto-dimming rearview mirror.
Finally, the GT trim adds a panoramic sunroof, LED headlights, head-up display, multi-view backup camera, 710-watt sound system, leather seating, power driver’s seat adjustment, heated steering wheel and heated rear seats.
Mitsubishi estimates the Eclipse Cross’s fuel consumption at 9.6/8.9 L/100 km (city/highway).
