2018 Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross

Mitsubishi’s new Eclipse Cross is an interesting SUV-type model that has arrived in Australia for the new car buyer spying for a clean, reliable SUV deal.  Mitsubishi have the exterior looking sportier than that of the ASX and Outlander versions of Mitsi’s other similar SUV vehicles.  In fact, the new Eclipse Cross could be said to have SUV, hatchback and coupe styling rolled into one, and the end result is funky, pleasant and ready to add some sparkle to the Mitsubishi range of cars.  Having had a bit of water go under the bridge since Mitsubishi has produced anything new; it’s good to have the arrival of the Eclipse Cross with its sharp styling.  Check out the angular rear view.

A range of Eclipse Cross models will be available, the range topper being the VRX AWD version which uses Mitsubishi’s clever Super-All Wheel Control (S-AWC) system.  A VRX 2WD and a standard 2WD variant will also be available.  What is common to all of these models will be the eager new 1.5-litre turbo petrol engine with 112 kW of power, 254 Nm of torque and a CVT transmission.  Mitsubishi also has the venerable 2.2-litre turbo-diesel from the ASX and Outlander to share around, so we’re likely to see this engine available to the Eclipse Cross which will use the new 8-speed automatic transmission.  Of note, the 1.5-litre turbo motor is a gem and quite likeable.  There’s plenty of power, and even low down in the revs the engine responds willingly.  When linked to the eight-step CVT, the response when under acceleration is smooth and responsive, and the drive can definitely be swift when required.

Mitsubishi’s chassis design is well thought out, and with the refined ride you also get an SUV with decent dynamic handling.  Both the 2WD and AWD models have their respective benefits, but both are fun to drive.  Owners will enjoy the light and economical 2WD Eclipse Cross models, while AWD versions gain added traction when the road gets slippery or wet.  Out on the open roads, the new Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross will be more than happy to fly along at 130 km/h (Northern Territory) in a composed, balanced measure.  Around town, the car feels well sorted to any road surface.

Hop into the interior of the car, and the new Eclipse Cross is handsome with a new modern feel for Mitsubishi.  Space wise, the cabin has plenty for seating accommodation both in the front and in the rear, and rear seat passengers will also enjoy up to 200 mm extension of legroom thanks to the sliding ability of the back seats.  Also, the backrest of the rear seats will move through eight stages of recline, so comfort has taken a big leap in the right direction.  Flexibility allows for greater satisfaction, and with the movable rear seats, both the passenger space and the luggage space can grow or shrink according to occupant needs.  Boot space behind the rear seats for the Eclipse Cross ranges between 341 and 448 litres.  Obviously, you also have the potential to fold the rear seats forward and grow this space.

2018 Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross Interior

Front seat occupants will enjoy the feeling of a focused dash design that has all the latest technology at your fingertips.  Clean lines and crisp design has always been a nice Mitsubishi attribute, and the Eclipse Cross is more modern and better than ever.  A new centre console houses a touch pad that is used to control Apple CarPlay and Android Auto– a world first and very innovative.  This feature is easy to use, controlling menu selection and volume.  Android Auto offers full smartphone projection, touch and voice control.

Other features include power windows, climate air-conditioning, forward collision mitigation with pedestrian detection and lane departure warning (All models – which gets my big thumbs up!).  Buyers who want all the best stuff will be after the VRX variants with AWD, dual-zone climate control, sports heated leather seats, premium sound, larger alloy wheels, rear cross-traffic alert and a colour head-up display.  With this sort of equipment, you’re definitely going to get yourself into the spotlight!

As a safe, economical five-seater, mid-sized SUV the Eclipse Cross does well and should provide a handy companion for a small family.  This will also make a good alternative for people who like to tackle the odd country road where the gravel roads can be a bit of a mixed bag – AWD versions in particular.

2018 Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross

The Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross models include the:

• Eclipse Cross 2WD
• Eclipse Cross VRX 2WD
• Eclipse Cross VRX AWD

For any more information on the Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross models or, for that matter, any other new car, contact one of our friendly consultants on 1300 303 181.  If you’d like some fleet discount pricing (yes even for private buyers!), we can submit vehicle quote requests out to our national network of Mitsubishi dealers and come back with pricing within 24 hours.  Private Fleet – car buying made easy!