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In 1989, Mitsubishi released a new model called the Eclipse. It was a sporty, affordable, front-wheel drive semi-successor to the Mitsubishi Starion. The Starion line was split in two, with the Eclipse taking the affordable sports hatchback segment to compete with the Toyota Celica and Honda Prelude, while the new Mitsubishi 3000GT, introduced the following year, moved upmarket to compete with the Toyota Supra and Nissan 300ZX. Built in Normal, Illinois, in collaboration with Chrysler, the Eclipse was also sold as the Eagle Talon and Plymouth Laser and was related in platform with the Mitsubishi Galant. In its second generation, the Eclipse became an icon in the tuning world before fading away to a shadow of its former self in the final two generations. First Generation Mitsubishi Eclipse (1989 – 1994) The original Eclipse could satisfy the budget-minded and sports car-minded customers alike. At the base end, the grocery-getter version of the Eclipse was powered by a 92 horsepower 1.8-liter 4-cylinder. Those wanting a bit more could opt for a 135-horsepower 2.0-liter dual overhead cam unit. If a buyer was dedicated to rowing their own gears and wanted an all-wheel drive, there was a manual-transmission-only version of this engine that bumped output higher to 150 horsepower. While none of these were barn burners, in a car weighing a mere 2,500 pounds, they could move pretty well. Remember that a larger and heavier 1989 Ford Taurus with a V6 had just 140 horsepower at the time. The real fun began once a buyer started looking at the Eclipse GS Turbo or GSX models, with the primary difference between the two being the addition of all-wheel drive. When equipped with a manual transmission, the Eclipse GS Turbo or GSX produced 190 – 195 horsepower, depending on the year. Cars equipped with 4-speed automatics were downrated with smaller turbochargers to 180 horsepower, but whichever transmission you picked, the turbo-charged Eclipse had more horsepower than the base V8 in a 1989 Chevy Camaro and less weight to lug around. The GS Turbo weighed in at 2,745 lbs, and the all-wheel drive GSX was a still-svelte 3,095 lb. Handling on the GSX models was further improved with limited slip center and rear differentials. Debuting with pop-up headlamps in 1989, Mitsubishi refreshed the popular Eclipse for 1992 with exposed aero headlamps. The interior was laid out in a driver-oriented fighter cockpit style, and having driven several, I remember them being very comfortable. Most were equipped with a gray or black interior, but if a buyer wandered across the street to the Jeep-Eagle dealer, they could find an identical Eagle Talon with a handsome tan and black two-tone. Second Generation Mitsubishi Eclipse (1995 – 1999) Redesigned for the 1995 model year, the second-generation Mitsubishi Eclipse became the icon of its time and the most popular of all generations of Eclipse. Still built in cooperation with Chrysler, the Plymouth Laser was dropped, and the Eclipse / Talon was now a cousin of the larger Chrysler Sebring Coupe, and Dodge Avenger coupe. While the car remained the same overall length, Mitsubishi repackaged the interior for more room. The cockpit-style gauges and center stack were smoothed into a rounder and more luxury-oriented driver-centric layout. A convertible was added to the lineup (Eclipse only) as the Eclipse Spyder. Mitsubishi nudged the Eclipse upmarket by dropping the budget-friendly base trim for the first year. Starting with the RS trim, the Eclipse was powered by a Chrysler-built DOHC 2.0-liter shared with the recently introduced Dodge/Plymouth Neon. This unit produced 140 horsepower / 130 lb-ft of torque and was mated to a 5-speed manual transmission or 4-speed automatic. The GS trim kept this same powertrain but added 4-wheel disk brakes, cruise control, 16-inch wheels, a rear wiper, and more. Spyder GS models got a larger 2.4-liter Mitsubishi-built 4-cylinder with 141 horsepower and 163 lb-ft of torque to handle the extra weight of the convertible. As with the prior generation, the real fun began when buyers started looking at turbo-equipped models. All turbo-powered second-generation Eclipses are powered by a new version of the Mitsubishi 4G63 4-cylinder. Mitsubishi switched to smaller turbos but increased the compression ratio to reduce turbo lag and raise output to 210 horsepower (205 in automatics) and 214 lb-ft of torque at 3,000 rpm. These were better numbers than nearly every 6-cylinder on the market at the time and even beat the torque output of the 3-liter V8 in the BMW 530i by offering the same amount of torque 1,500 rpm sooner. This engine, also used in the Lancer Evolution in overseas markets, is incredibly popular with tuners because of the vast array of modifications available. Owners could tune the engine up to 270 hp and 228 lb.-ft of torque using OEM parts. Indeed, in the final two years of this generation, Mitsubishi quietly updated the engine with some Lancer Evolution parts, including a tuned crankshaft, better crankshaft bearings, and an updated ECU tune. Using balance shafts and timing belts rather than chains made these engines extremely smooth running and happy to rev. The downside was that these are interference engines, and a timing belt failure could mean bent valves. Like before, the GSX model added all-wheel drive, upgraded brakes, and an optional limited-slip differential. To the dismay of this author, Mitsubishi never offered a GSX Spyder. In 1997, both the Eclipse and Talon received exterior styling updates to look more aggressive and new interior color choices. But though incredibly popular, the generation ended after just four model years. The Eagle Talon was Eagle’s last vehicle as Chrysler phased out the brand. I personally spent a lot of time behind the wheel of a turbo Talon and remember those drives fondly. Third Generation Mitsubishi Eclipse (2000 – 2005) The year 2000 was a change for everyone and that included the Eclipse. The third-generation Eclipse lost most of the qualities that made the prior two generations so revered. Size and weight were up significantly, and the potent turbo-charged powertrains were gone, all-wheel drive was gone, and the suspension was softened up to give a more comfortable ride. Thankfully, the Spyder remained an option. Again, the platform was shared with the Mitsubishi Galant sedan, and the platform was also being used for larger coupes at Chrysler and Dodge with the Sebring Coupe and Dodge Stratus. Power from the base 2.4-liter 4-cylinder came in at 147 horsepower, while a new 3.0-liter 24-valve single overhead cam V6 came in the GT trim with 205 horsepower. This was later revised down to 200 horsepower in 2001 to meet emissions standards and then back up to 210 horsepower in 2002 with a new GTS trim. Mitsubishi even experimented with an electric Eclipse EV prototype in 2001. Carrying an early lithium-ion battery, the Eclipse EV completed a 249-mile circuit around Shikoku, Japan, on a single charge. While initially popular, the car’s lack of sportiness and the public’s migration to sport utility vehicles caused Eclipse sales to fade. Fourth Generation Mitsubishi Eclipse (2006 – 2012) The final generation of the Eclipse debuted in 2006. Now, on an all-new platform, the Eclipse was again sharing its chassis with the Galant and, with some foreshadowing thrown in, the new Mitsubishi Endeavor crossover as well. Overall length was up by three inches, but weight increased by around 400 lbs. All-wheel drive was still absent, though an AWD hybrid-electric concept was produced. The Spyder debuted a year later. Powered by a new SOHC 16-valve 2.4-liter cylinder with 162 horsepower, the base 2006 Eclipse GS had a worse power-to-weight ratio than its 135 horsepower older sibling from 1995. The V6 grew in size to 3.8 liters and 265 horsepower, but performance as a sports car was lacking owing to the ballooning weight, with the V6 coupe weighing in just 37 pounds shy of a 2006 Cadillac CTS sedan. Sales cratered, and production of the 2012 model year ended early, stopping in August 2011. Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross (2018 – Present) Unrelated to the sports coupes of yesteryear, Mitsubishi introduced the awkwardly named and awkward-looking Eclipse Cross in 2017 for the 2018 model year. It is a budget-minded small crossover with no sporting intentions whatsoever from its 152-horsepower turbocharged 4-cylinder and CVT transmission. The Eclipse made an indelible mark on the sport compact landscape in its 23 years on the planet. Just under a million copies of the four generations were built. Unfortunately, it seems like this is one Eclipse we will never see the likes of again. View full article
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In 1989, Mitsubishi released a new model called the Eclipse. It was a sporty, affordable, front-wheel drive semi-successor to the Mitsubishi Starion. The Starion line was split in two, with the Eclipse taking the affordable sports hatchback segment to compete with the Toyota Celica and Honda Prelude, while the new Mitsubishi 3000GT, introduced the following year, moved upmarket to compete with the Toyota Supra and Nissan 300ZX. Built in Normal, Illinois, in collaboration with Chrysler, the Eclipse was also sold as the Eagle Talon and Plymouth Laser and was related in platform with the Mitsubishi Galant. In its second generation, the Eclipse became an icon in the tuning world before fading away to a shadow of its former self in the final two generations. First Generation Mitsubishi Eclipse (1989 – 1994) The original Eclipse could satisfy the budget-minded and sports car-minded customers alike. At the base end, the grocery-getter version of the Eclipse was powered by a 92 horsepower 1.8-liter 4-cylinder. Those wanting a bit more could opt for a 135-horsepower 2.0-liter dual overhead cam unit. If a buyer was dedicated to rowing their own gears and wanted an all-wheel drive, there was a manual-transmission-only version of this engine that bumped output higher to 150 horsepower. While none of these were barn burners, in a car weighing a mere 2,500 pounds, they could move pretty well. Remember that a larger and heavier 1989 Ford Taurus with a V6 had just 140 horsepower at the time. The real fun began once a buyer started looking at the Eclipse GS Turbo or GSX models, with the primary difference between the two being the addition of all-wheel drive. When equipped with a manual transmission, the Eclipse GS Turbo or GSX produced 190 – 195 horsepower, depending on the year. Cars equipped with 4-speed automatics were downrated with smaller turbochargers to 180 horsepower, but whichever transmission you picked, the turbo-charged Eclipse had more horsepower than the base V8 in a 1989 Chevy Camaro and less weight to lug around. The GS Turbo weighed in at 2,745 lbs, and the all-wheel drive GSX was a still-svelte 3,095 lb. Handling on the GSX models was further improved with limited slip center and rear differentials. Debuting with pop-up headlamps in 1989, Mitsubishi refreshed the popular Eclipse for 1992 with exposed aero headlamps. The interior was laid out in a driver-oriented fighter cockpit style, and having driven several, I remember them being very comfortable. Most were equipped with a gray or black interior, but if a buyer wandered across the street to the Jeep-Eagle dealer, they could find an identical Eagle Talon with a handsome tan and black two-tone. Second Generation Mitsubishi Eclipse (1995 – 1999) Redesigned for the 1995 model year, the second-generation Mitsubishi Eclipse became the icon of its time and the most popular of all generations of Eclipse. Still built in cooperation with Chrysler, the Plymouth Laser was dropped, and the Eclipse / Talon was now a cousin of the larger Chrysler Sebring Coupe, and Dodge Avenger coupe. While the car remained the same overall length, Mitsubishi repackaged the interior for more room. The cockpit-style gauges and center stack were smoothed into a rounder and more luxury-oriented driver-centric layout. A convertible was added to the lineup (Eclipse only) as the Eclipse Spyder. Mitsubishi nudged the Eclipse upmarket by dropping the budget-friendly base trim for the first year. Starting with the RS trim, the Eclipse was powered by a Chrysler-built DOHC 2.0-liter shared with the recently introduced Dodge/Plymouth Neon. This unit produced 140 horsepower / 130 lb-ft of torque and was mated to a 5-speed manual transmission or 4-speed automatic. The GS trim kept this same powertrain but added 4-wheel disk brakes, cruise control, 16-inch wheels, a rear wiper, and more. Spyder GS models got a larger 2.4-liter Mitsubishi-built 4-cylinder with 141 horsepower and 163 lb-ft of torque to handle the extra weight of the convertible. As with the prior generation, the real fun began when buyers started looking at turbo-equipped models. All turbo-powered second-generation Eclipses are powered by a new version of the Mitsubishi 4G63 4-cylinder. Mitsubishi switched to smaller turbos but increased the compression ratio to reduce turbo lag and raise output to 210 horsepower (205 in automatics) and 214 lb-ft of torque at 3,000 rpm. These were better numbers than nearly every 6-cylinder on the market at the time and even beat the torque output of the 3-liter V8 in the BMW 530i by offering the same amount of torque 1,500 rpm sooner. This engine, also used in the Lancer Evolution in overseas markets, is incredibly popular with tuners because of the vast array of modifications available. Owners could tune the engine up to 270 hp and 228 lb.-ft of torque using OEM parts. Indeed, in the final two years of this generation, Mitsubishi quietly updated the engine with some Lancer Evolution parts, including a tuned crankshaft, better crankshaft bearings, and an updated ECU tune. Using balance shafts and timing belts rather than chains made these engines extremely smooth running and happy to rev. The downside was that these are interference engines, and a timing belt failure could mean bent valves. Like before, the GSX model added all-wheel drive, upgraded brakes, and an optional limited-slip differential. To the dismay of this author, Mitsubishi never offered a GSX Spyder. In 1997, both the Eclipse and Talon received exterior styling updates to look more aggressive and new interior color choices. But though incredibly popular, the generation ended after just four model years. The Eagle Talon was Eagle’s last vehicle as Chrysler phased out the brand. I personally spent a lot of time behind the wheel of a turbo Talon and remember those drives fondly. Third Generation Mitsubishi Eclipse (2000 – 2005) The year 2000 was a change for everyone and that included the Eclipse. The third-generation Eclipse lost most of the qualities that made the prior two generations so revered. Size and weight were up significantly, and the potent turbo-charged powertrains were gone, all-wheel drive was gone, and the suspension was softened up to give a more comfortable ride. Thankfully, the Spyder remained an option. Again, the platform was shared with the Mitsubishi Galant sedan, and the platform was also being used for larger coupes at Chrysler and Dodge with the Sebring Coupe and Dodge Stratus. Power from the base 2.4-liter 4-cylinder came in at 147 horsepower, while a new 3.0-liter 24-valve single overhead cam V6 came in the GT trim with 205 horsepower. This was later revised down to 200 horsepower in 2001 to meet emissions standards and then back up to 210 horsepower in 2002 with a new GTS trim. Mitsubishi even experimented with an electric Eclipse EV prototype in 2001. Carrying an early lithium-ion battery, the Eclipse EV completed a 249-mile circuit around Shikoku, Japan, on a single charge. While initially popular, the car’s lack of sportiness and the public’s migration to sport utility vehicles caused Eclipse sales to fade. Fourth Generation Mitsubishi Eclipse (2006 – 2012) The final generation of the Eclipse debuted in 2006. Now, on an all-new platform, the Eclipse was again sharing its chassis with the Galant and, with some foreshadowing thrown in, the new Mitsubishi Endeavor crossover as well. Overall length was up by three inches, but weight increased by around 400 lbs. All-wheel drive was still absent, though an AWD hybrid-electric concept was produced. The Spyder debuted a year later. Powered by a new SOHC 16-valve 2.4-liter cylinder with 162 horsepower, the base 2006 Eclipse GS had a worse power-to-weight ratio than its 135 horsepower older sibling from 1995. The V6 grew in size to 3.8 liters and 265 horsepower, but performance as a sports car was lacking owing to the ballooning weight, with the V6 coupe weighing in just 37 pounds shy of a 2006 Cadillac CTS sedan. Sales cratered, and production of the 2012 model year ended early, stopping in August 2011. Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross (2018 – Present) Unrelated to the sports coupes of yesteryear, Mitsubishi introduced the awkwardly named and awkward-looking Eclipse Cross in 2017 for the 2018 model year. It is a budget-minded small crossover with no sporting intentions whatsoever from its 152-horsepower turbocharged 4-cylinder and CVT transmission. The Eclipse made an indelible mark on the sport compact landscape in its 23 years on the planet. Just under a million copies of the four generations were built. Unfortunately, it seems like this is one Eclipse we will never see the likes of again.- 14 comments
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I was a bit surprised when I got word that I would be spending a few days with a Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross only a few weeks after doing a brief first drive. As I noted in my report, I came away pretty impressed with certain aspects of this latest contender in the compact crossover class. But there were some items that I needed more time to mess around with such as the infotainment system and powertrain. With a bit more time behind the wheel, how would Mitsubishi’s newest model fare? As I talked about in my quick first drive, Mitsubishi’s design staff went crazy with the Eclipse Cross. Sharp angles, a split shape for the tailgate, and aggressive front end treatment will draw a lot of comment. But credit should be given to the design team as they have created something that does stand out in a very crowded class. The polarizing design can be toned down a lot if you choose a different color than the red as seen on my tester. Sadly, that polarizing design doesn’t carry into the interior. But the plain look does allow for most controls to be easy to find and reach. Only the placement of the trip computer controls (behind the steering wheel) and climate control (nestled deep in the center stack) will invoke some frustration. Mitsubishi has also made some noticeable improvements to overall interior quality. There are higher quality hard plastics and some soft-touch materials used throughout. Also, there were no glaring build quality concerns that I noticed in the Outlander Sport. The front seats provide decent support for short trips, but I was wishing for more padding after doing a day trip to Ohio. The sloping roofline and large sunroof will eat into rear headroom, but legroom is decent for most passengers. Cargo space is on the low side with 22.6 cubic feet with the seats up and 48.9 cubic feet when folded. The sloping tailgate design does also mean you’ll need to plan carefully as to how you plan on loading cargo. Mitsubishi equips all Eclipse Cross models with a seven-inch touchscreen, but only the LE and above get a free-standing version with a touchpad controller. The touchpad controller reminds a lot of the Lexus’ Remote Touch system and its issues. Both systems exhibit some slowness to respond when your finger is moving across the pad. At least the Mitsubishi system has a touchscreen as another input method, but you’ll be stretching your arm to use it. The graphics and overall performance do trail competitors, but it is a huge step forward when compared to the previous systems Mitsubishi has installed. Android Auto and Apple CarPlay compatibility are standard on LE models and above. A new turbocharged 1.5L four-cylinder powers the Eclipse Cross. Output is rated at 152 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque. All models come with a CVT and the choice of either front or Mitsubishi’s Super All-Wheel-Control (S-AWC). During my first drive, I came away mostly impressed with the turbo-four as it moved the vehicle with subtle verve around town. This still held true during my time with the vehicle. But I did find the engine runs out of steam at higher speeds, making it somewhat difficult to pass quickly when traveling on the highway. Also, the engine does sound somewhat unrefined in hard acceleration. The CVT is similar; providing excellent performance around town, but noticeably struggles on the highway. EPA fuel economy on the Eclipse Cross SEL S-AWC is 25 City/26 Highway/25 Combined. My average for the five-day period I had the vehicle landed around 27.2 on a 70/30 mix of highway and city driving. Despite the Eclipse name on the vehicle, this is not a sporty crossover. There is pronounced body lean and the steering feels noticeably light. But for most buyers, this is not a big issue. They’re more concerned about how the Eclipse Cross rides and the news is better. The suspension does a great job of absorbing most bumps. Wind noise is kept to very acceptable levels, but there was a fair amount of road noise coming inside - especially when traveling on the highway. This makes long trips somewhat tiring. While many enthusiasts may bemoan the fact that Mitsubishi is using the Eclipse name on a crossover, I’ll be the first to admit this is their best vehicle in quite some time. The design and turbo engine help the model stand out in what is becoming a quite crowded class. Plus, the starting price of $23,295 for the base ES makes it quite tempting. Still, the Eclipse Cross does trail the pack in terms of comfort, cargo space, and performance at higher speeds. There is room for improvement, but Mitsubishi has most of the basics right on the money. Disclaimer: Mitsubishi Provided the Eclipse Cross, Insurance, and One Tank of Gas Year: 2018 Make: Mitsubishi Model: Eclipse Cross Trim: SEL S-AWC Engine: Turbocharged 1.5L Direct-Injected Four-Cylinder Driveline: CVT, All-Wheel Drive Horsepower @ RPM: 152 @ 5,550 Torque @ RPM: 184 @ 2,000 Fuel Economy: City/Highway/Combined - 25/26/25 Curb Weight: 3,516 lbs Location of Manufacture: Okazaki, Japan Base Price: $27,895 As Tested Price: $32,310 (Includes $995.00 Destination Charge) Options: Touring Package - $2,500.00 Red Diamond Paint - $595.00 Accessory Tonneau Cover - $190.00 Accessory Carpeted Floormats and Portfolio - $135.00 View full article
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I was a bit surprised when I got word that I would be spending a few days with a Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross only a few weeks after doing a brief first drive. As I noted in my report, I came away pretty impressed with certain aspects of this latest contender in the compact crossover class. But there were some items that I needed more time to mess around with such as the infotainment system and powertrain. With a bit more time behind the wheel, how would Mitsubishi’s newest model fare? As I talked about in my quick first drive, Mitsubishi’s design staff went crazy with the Eclipse Cross. Sharp angles, a split shape for the tailgate, and aggressive front end treatment will draw a lot of comment. But credit should be given to the design team as they have created something that does stand out in a very crowded class. The polarizing design can be toned down a lot if you choose a different color than the red as seen on my tester. Sadly, that polarizing design doesn’t carry into the interior. But the plain look does allow for most controls to be easy to find and reach. Only the placement of the trip computer controls (behind the steering wheel) and climate control (nestled deep in the center stack) will invoke some frustration. Mitsubishi has also made some noticeable improvements to overall interior quality. There are higher quality hard plastics and some soft-touch materials used throughout. Also, there were no glaring build quality concerns that I noticed in the Outlander Sport. The front seats provide decent support for short trips, but I was wishing for more padding after doing a day trip to Ohio. The sloping roofline and large sunroof will eat into rear headroom, but legroom is decent for most passengers. Cargo space is on the low side with 22.6 cubic feet with the seats up and 48.9 cubic feet when folded. The sloping tailgate design does also mean you’ll need to plan carefully as to how you plan on loading cargo. Mitsubishi equips all Eclipse Cross models with a seven-inch touchscreen, but only the LE and above get a free-standing version with a touchpad controller. The touchpad controller reminds a lot of the Lexus’ Remote Touch system and its issues. Both systems exhibit some slowness to respond when your finger is moving across the pad. At least the Mitsubishi system has a touchscreen as another input method, but you’ll be stretching your arm to use it. The graphics and overall performance do trail competitors, but it is a huge step forward when compared to the previous systems Mitsubishi has installed. Android Auto and Apple CarPlay compatibility are standard on LE models and above. A new turbocharged 1.5L four-cylinder powers the Eclipse Cross. Output is rated at 152 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque. All models come with a CVT and the choice of either front or Mitsubishi’s Super All-Wheel-Control (S-AWC). During my first drive, I came away mostly impressed with the turbo-four as it moved the vehicle with subtle verve around town. This still held true during my time with the vehicle. But I did find the engine runs out of steam at higher speeds, making it somewhat difficult to pass quickly when traveling on the highway. Also, the engine does sound somewhat unrefined in hard acceleration. The CVT is similar; providing excellent performance around town, but noticeably struggles on the highway. EPA fuel economy on the Eclipse Cross SEL S-AWC is 25 City/26 Highway/25 Combined. My average for the five-day period I had the vehicle landed around 27.2 on a 70/30 mix of highway and city driving. Despite the Eclipse name on the vehicle, this is not a sporty crossover. There is pronounced body lean and the steering feels noticeably light. But for most buyers, this is not a big issue. They’re more concerned about how the Eclipse Cross rides and the news is better. The suspension does a great job of absorbing most bumps. Wind noise is kept to very acceptable levels, but there was a fair amount of road noise coming inside - especially when traveling on the highway. This makes long trips somewhat tiring. While many enthusiasts may bemoan the fact that Mitsubishi is using the Eclipse name on a crossover, I’ll be the first to admit this is their best vehicle in quite some time. The design and turbo engine help the model stand out in what is becoming a quite crowded class. Plus, the starting price of $23,295 for the base ES makes it quite tempting. Still, the Eclipse Cross does trail the pack in terms of comfort, cargo space, and performance at higher speeds. There is room for improvement, but Mitsubishi has most of the basics right on the money. Disclaimer: Mitsubishi Provided the Eclipse Cross, Insurance, and One Tank of Gas Year: 2018 Make: Mitsubishi Model: Eclipse Cross Trim: SEL S-AWC Engine: Turbocharged 1.5L Direct-Injected Four-Cylinder Driveline: CVT, All-Wheel Drive Horsepower @ RPM: 152 @ 5,550 Torque @ RPM: 184 @ 2,000 Fuel Economy: City/Highway/Combined - 25/26/25 Curb Weight: 3,516 lbs Location of Manufacture: Okazaki, Japan Base Price: $27,895 As Tested Price: $32,310 (Includes $995.00 Destination Charge) Options: Touring Package - $2,500.00 Red Diamond Paint - $595.00 Accessory Tonneau Cover - $190.00 Accessory Carpeted Floormats and Portfolio - $135.00 -
As we got off the on-ramp to I-94, my driving partner realized something. “We’re going the wrong direction.” Instead of going westbound, we were traveling eastbound. We had misread the directions only a few hundred yards from the starting point. Once realizing this, I drove towards the next exit to turn around. A few extra miles wouldn’t hurt either in the vehicle that I was piloting. Mitsubishi had invited a small number of Detroit-based automotive writers to drive the new Eclipse Cross and Outlander PHEV. Which is how I found myself behind the wheel of the Eclipse Cross to begin the drive. This is Mitsubishi’s contender in the hotly contested compact crossover marketplace. The company is hoping the combination of a distinctive design, turbocharged engine, and other features will bring in people into the showroom. My first impression shows some good signs, but there are some quirks that may put off some people. I should note this isn’t going to be a full-blown first drive. I only had about 15 to 20 miles of driving under my belt, while the rest saw me sitting in the passenger seat, proving directions to my partner and exploring various bits of the vehicle. Think of this as the appetizer to hopefully a full review sometime in the future. Mitsubishi’s design team went slightly overboard with the Eclipse Cross’ exterior. Busy would be an understatement considering the various details on display with sharp angles, a fair amount of chrome for the front, and a split-window tailgate. The color really plays a key role in emphasizing the various details. My particular vehicle was finished in white, which helped tone down some of the design. I will give Mitsubishi credit for designing something that stands out from what is becoming a very crowded field. A slight disappointment is the lack of the design flair for the interior. It looks somewhat stale and plain. But Mitsubishi has made an effort to fix some of the weaknesses I highlighted in my Outlander Sport review. Material quality is noticeably better with Mitsubishi using more solid feeling plastics throughout. There are some spots where some soft-touch plastics are used such on the door panels. Build quality is improved with solid thunk when the doors close and tight gaps. One item I sadly did not get the chance to try fully is the 7-inch infotainment system. The base model has the screen integrated into the dash, while LE models and above have the screen sitting above the dash. LE and above also get a touchpad controller to move around the system. I have concerns about the touchpad considering how many problems I have with something similar used in Lexus models. But those who have tried the touchpad say it works very well with quick responses. Power comes from a turbocharged 1.5L four-cylinder punching out 152 horsepower and 184 pound-feet. This is connected to a CVT and routes power to either the front-wheels (only available on the ES) or Mitsubishi’s Super All-Wheel Control. The engine feels quite adequate as it provides decent oomph when leaving a stop or needing to getting up to speed with traffic. One item I did find odd was the slight delay of the powertrain responding after suddenly stepping on the accelerator hard. Not sure if this is an engine programming issue or something to do with the CVT. The suspension does a surprising job of ironing out most bumps and imperfections. There is a tradeoff as the Eclipse Cross has some significant body roll when cornering. Disclaimer: Mitsubishi provided breakfast, a quick snack, and the Eclipse Cross for this first drive event. Year: 2018 Make: Mitsubishi Model: Eclipse Cross Engine: Turbocharged 1.5L MIVEC Direct-Injected Inline-Four Driveline: Front or All-Wheel Drive, CVT Horsepower @ RPM: 152 @ 6,000 Torque @ RPM: 184 @ 3,500 Fuel Economy: City/Highway/Combined - 26/29/27 (ES FWD), 25/26/28 (ES S-AWC), 25/26/25 (LE, SE, and SEL S-AWC) Curb Weight: 3,307 - 3,516 lbs Location of Manufacture: Kurashiki, Okayama, Japan Base Price: $23,295 - $30,395 (Doesn't include a $995 destination charge) -
As we got off the on-ramp to I-94, my driving partner realized something. “We’re going the wrong direction.” Instead of going westbound, we were traveling eastbound. We had misread the directions only a few hundred yards from the starting point. Once realizing this, I drove towards the next exit to turn around. A few extra miles wouldn’t hurt either in the vehicle that I was piloting. Mitsubishi had invited a small number of Detroit-based automotive writers to drive the new Eclipse Cross and Outlander PHEV. Which is how I found myself behind the wheel of the Eclipse Cross to begin the drive. This is Mitsubishi’s contender in the hotly contested compact crossover marketplace. The company is hoping the combination of a distinctive design, turbocharged engine, and other features will bring in people into the showroom. My first impression shows some good signs, but there are some quirks that may put off some people. I should note this isn’t going to be a full-blown first drive. I only had about 15 to 20 miles of driving under my belt, while the rest saw me sitting in the passenger seat, proving directions to my partner and exploring various bits of the vehicle. Think of this as the appetizer to hopefully a full review sometime in the future. Mitsubishi’s design team went slightly overboard with the Eclipse Cross’ exterior. Busy would be an understatement considering the various details on display with sharp angles, a fair amount of chrome for the front, and a split-window tailgate. The color really plays a key role in emphasizing the various details. My particular vehicle was finished in white, which helped tone down some of the design. I will give Mitsubishi credit for designing something that stands out from what is becoming a very crowded field. A slight disappointment is the lack of the design flair for the interior. It looks somewhat stale and plain. But Mitsubishi has made an effort to fix some of the weaknesses I highlighted in my Outlander Sport review. Material quality is noticeably better with Mitsubishi using more solid feeling plastics throughout. There are some spots where some soft-touch plastics are used such on the door panels. Build quality is improved with solid thunk when the doors close and tight gaps. One item I sadly did not get the chance to try fully is the 7-inch infotainment system. The base model has the screen integrated into the dash, while LE models and above have the screen sitting above the dash. LE and above also get a touchpad controller to move around the system. I have concerns about the touchpad considering how many problems I have with something similar used in Lexus models. But those who have tried the touchpad say it works very well with quick responses. Power comes from a turbocharged 1.5L four-cylinder punching out 152 horsepower and 184 pound-feet. This is connected to a CVT and routes power to either the front-wheels (only available on the ES) or Mitsubishi’s Super All-Wheel Control. The engine feels quite adequate as it provides decent oomph when leaving a stop or needing to getting up to speed with traffic. One item I did find odd was the slight delay of the powertrain responding after suddenly stepping on the accelerator hard. Not sure if this is an engine programming issue or something to do with the CVT. The suspension does a surprising job of ironing out most bumps and imperfections. There is a tradeoff as the Eclipse Cross has some significant body roll when cornering. Disclaimer: Mitsubishi provided breakfast, a quick snack, and the Eclipse Cross for this first drive event. Year: 2018 Make: Mitsubishi Model: Eclipse Cross Engine: Turbocharged 1.5L MIVEC Direct-Injected Inline-Four Driveline: Front or All-Wheel Drive, CVT Horsepower @ RPM: 152 @ 6,000 Torque @ RPM: 184 @ 3,500 Fuel Economy: City/Highway/Combined - 26/29/27 (ES FWD), 25/26/28 (ES S-AWC), 25/26/25 (LE, SE, and SEL S-AWC) Curb Weight: 3,307 - 3,516 lbs Location of Manufacture: Kurashiki, Okayama, Japan Base Price: $23,295 - $30,395 (Doesn't include a $995 destination charge) View full article
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From the album: 2018 Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross
© CheersandGears.com
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From the album: 2018 Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross
© CheersandGears.com
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From the album: 2018 Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross
© CheersandGears.com
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From the album: 2018 Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross
© CheersandGears.com
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From the album: 2018 Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross
© CheersandGears.com
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