Model review
Mitsubishi is a manufacturer well-known for its crossovers, SUVs and 4x4s, with these models making up the bulk of its sales for some time.
So, alongside the Japanese firm’s ASX and Outlander, a third similarly-sized model was introduced in 2017 – the Eclipse Cross. Unveiled at the Geneva Motor Show that year, this new Mitsubishi was a much bolder model than the other two cars, thanks to its striking front end, wraparound LED rear lights and coupe-like profile. The latter is something that was quite new to this segment at the time of its unveiling.
It also showcased a new infotainment system for the brand, along with a new head-up display. Models would arrive in Mitsubishi showrooms at the start of 2018.
Latest model
Since its unveil the Eclipse Cross was awarded a five-star Euro NCAP safety rating, with a particularly impressive 97 per cent score in the adult occupant protection category.
Mitsubishi also introduced a ‘Black Edition’ model in 2019 – this bringing stealthier stylign thanks to its black grille and alloy wheels. It also features a more comprehensive list of standard kit, including leather upholstery and a 360-degree parking camera.
However, earlier in 2020 Mitsubishi announced that it would be withdrawing from Europe, with it instead focusing its efforts on other markets in America and Asia. While models are set to be available to buy until the start of 2022, the brand will slowly cease its UK operations up until then.
Value for money
When it comes to value for money, the Eclipse Cross is a good option in this respect. Prices start from £22,545, which means this Mitsubishi undercuts plenty of rivals for price, though is slightly more expensive than an entry-level Nissan Qashqai. Models remain good value for money as you rise through the trim levels, while standard kit is generous – including the likes of climate control, a reversing camera and automatic lights and wipers.
But where value for money is concerned, used options make the most sense thanks to the Eclipse Cross’s steep depreciation. At the time of writing a 2018 car with 40,000 miles on the clock was available for as little as £11,500, though you’d need to add another £1,000 to that for a higher-spec version. Generous discounts of around £5,000 are also available on nearly-new models.
Looks and image
Mitsubishi’s cars aren’t known for their street cred, but it’s arguably the Eclipse Cross that’s the most stylish of the bunch. Thanks to its bold front end, intricate rear LED lighting and sloped rear windscreen, it’s not a bad-looking crossover by any means. If you value style, though, you’ll want to stay clear of the entry-level Verve model thanks to its tiny 16-inch alloy wheels.
The cabin is also quite a pleasant place to be – having a higher-quality look and feel than what we’re used to from Mitsubishis. That’s thanks to gloss black elements and a media system that sits at the top of the dashboard – a feature adopted on modern BMWs, for example. A gesture-controlled touchpad is also used to operate the infotainment, which is a system that seems to take inspiration from modern Lexus models.
If you’re looking at a crossover that’s easy to drive, the Eclipse Cross is a great option. It’s good to see out of, is easy to manoeuvre and quiet when cruising. It’s not the best model in this respect, though, as it’s not much fun to drive and leans through corners. On the larger 18-inch alloy wheels that all but entry-level Verve models come on, the ride is also disappointing. You’ll also want to avoid the CVT automatic model unless you need an auto as it’s poor and limits performance. On the plus side, a usable four-wheel-drive system is offered on higher-spec versions, which will help out in trickier conditions.
Space and practicality
As is often the case when ‘coupe’ styling is adopted, the Eclipse Cross isn’t the most practical choice – particularly when it comes to boot space. In fact, at 341 litres, the boot is smaller than plenty of family hatchbacks, though can be increased to 448 litres with the rear seats slid forwards.
The sloping roofline also means taller adults won’t have the most room in this class, though there’s a generous amount of legroom. A more conventionally-styled SUV will impress far more when it comes to spaciousness.
Engines
While Mitsubishi previously said a diesel Eclipse Cross would follow, it’s so far only been available with a single petrol engine, and that’s unlikely to change with the brand’s withdrawal from Europe.
The engine itself is a turbocharged 1.5-litre unit producing 161bhp and 250Nm torque. You can choose it with either a six-speed manual gearbox or a CVT automatic, with most trim levels available with this option. Front-wheel-drive comes as standard, though four-wheel-drive is available on high-spec Dynamic and Exceed versions.
Performance isn’t what you’d call brisk, but 0-60mph takes 9.5 seconds (10.2 seconds on four-wheel-drive models) along with a top speed of 127mph.
Running costs
With no diesel and no electrified option on offer with the Eclipse Cross, this Mitsubishi will be quite thirsty to run.
The firm claims that even in its most efficient guise, it will return just 37.7mpg – dropping to 32.5mphg in its thirstiest form. CO2 emissions ranging from 170g/km to 196g/km are also rather high.
High CO2 means you’ll pay over the odds in road tax in the first year (up to a whopping £1,305) though this is absorbed into the ‘on-the-road’ price.
Things to look out for
Mitsubishis usually have a good reliability reputation, and there’s little reason to suggest the Eclipse Cross will perform any differently. You also get a five-year warranty, which is longer than the three years typically offered by rivals, though it’s limited to 62,500 miles, which is worth considering if you’re a high-mileage driver. Hyundai’s warranty, for example, has no mileage cap.
Rivals
The Eclipse Cross sits in one of the most competitive segments around, and has no shortage of rivals. Unfortunately, the Eclipse Cross can’t compete with the best, with much more rounded alternatives including the Kia Sportage, Hyundai Tucson, Seat Ateca and Skoda Karoq.
The Peugeot 3008, Nissan Qashqai and Renault Kadjar are also worth considering.
Depreciation
Mitsubishis lack the street cred of other brands, and this means the Eclipse Cross depreciates quite heavily. However, this means great discounts are available on nearly-new models, and you should use this to your advantage to get a great deal.
