A former British Touring Car support racer, Nick is the founder of ChooseMyCar and brings years of industry insight to the world of cars and car buying.
Overall Rating
4/5
Based on expert evaluation and real-world testing
Performance
3.8
Comfort & Interior
4.2
Running Costs
3.7
Practicality
4.3
Expert Review
Our ratings are based on thorough testing and expert evaluation. We consider all aspects of the vehicle, from performance to value for money, ensuring you get a transparent and reliable assessment.
Overview
The Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross is a compact SUV that brings distinctive styling and practical versatility to the crowded crossover market. This Japanese SUV stands out with its bold coupe inspired design and split rear window that divides opinion but certainly catches attention. The Eclipse Cross offers a spacious interior with flexible seating arrangements and a generous boot that makes it ideal for families or active lifestyles. Under the bonnet, you’ll find efficient petrol engines that deliver adequate performance while keeping running costs reasonable. The high driving position and all wheel drive capability on higher spec models provide confidence in various driving conditions. While rivals like the Nissan Qashqai and Kia Sportage offer more mainstream appeal, the Eclipse Cross appeals to drivers who want something different from the usual SUV formula. The interior features modern technology including smartphone integration and a comprehensive infotainment system. Build quality is solid throughout with Mitsubishi’s reputation for reliability adding to the appeal. Whether you’re looking for a family car that stands out from the crowd or need the practicality of an SUV with distinctive character, the Eclipse Cross delivers an interesting alternative to more conventional choices.
How Does the Mitsubishi Eclipse-Cross Drive?
The Eclipse Cross offers a choice of efficient engines designed for real world driving rather than outright performance. The 1.5 litre turbocharged petrol engine produces around 163 horsepower, providing adequate power for family duties. It feels responsive in town and has enough grunt for confident motorway overtaking. The CVT automatic gearbox, while not the most engaging, delivers smooth power delivery and helps maximize fuel economy.
Key Features
Essential specifications and features
-
Engine
1.5L 4-cylinder Turbo Petrol
-
Power Output
163 bhp
-
0-60 mph
9.1 seconds
-
MPG Combined
40 - 45 mpg
- Boot Space
- 448 litres
- Safety Rating
- ★★★★★ (Euro NCAP)
How Comfortable Is the Mitsubishi Eclipse-Cross?
Step inside the Eclipse Cross and you’ll find a well appointed cabin that feels more premium than the price suggests. The dashboard layout is logical and user friendly, with clearly marked controls and good quality materials throughout. The infotainment system includes smartphone connectivity, making it easy to integrate your device for navigation and music. Climate control is standard across the range, along with heated front seats on higher trim levels.
A surprisingly stylish and capable crossover, the Eclipse Cross balances bold design with a comfortable ride. While not class-leading in performance, its value proposition is undeniably strong.
Is the Mitsubishi Eclipse-Cross Expensive to Run?
As a mid size SUV, the Eclipse Cross delivers reasonable running costs for its class. The turbocharged petrol engine returns real world fuel economy in the low 40s MPG, which helps keep fuel bills manageable for a vehicle of this size. Insurance groups are moderate, typically falling in groups 15 to 20 depending on the trim level chosen. Road tax is reasonable thanks to the relatively efficient engines.
How Does It Compare?
Compare key features and specifications
|
Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross
|
Nissan Qashqai
|
Kia Sportage
|
|
|---|---|---|---|
| Starting Price | £27,000 | £26,500 | £28,000 |
|
Performance
|
|||
| Engine | 1.5L Turbo 163hp | 1.3L Turbo 140hp | 1.6L Turbo 150hp |
| Power | 163 bhp | 140 bhp | 150 bhp |
| 0-60 mph | 9.1 seconds | 9.9 seconds | 9.4 seconds |
|
Running Costs
|
|||
| MPG Combined | 42 mpg | 45 mpg | 44 mpg |
|
Practicality
|
|||
| Boot Space | 448 litres | 430 litres | 439 litres |
|
Standard Features
|
|||
| Key Features | Distinctive styling, Spacious interior, All-wheel drive option | Proven reliability, Advanced safety tech, Efficient engines | Long warranty, Premium interior, Strong build quality |
Mitsubishi Eclipse-Cross Practicality & Boot Space
The Eclipse Cross excels in practical family use, offering generous space in a manageable package. The 448 litre boot is competitive for the class, easily accommodating the weekly shopping or holiday luggage. The rear seats fold down to create a large, flat loading area when you need to carry bulky items. Clever storage solutions throughout the cabin help keep family essentials organized and within easy reach.
We love our Eclipse Cross. It’s so much more interesting to look at than other family cars, and the space inside is brilliant for our two kids. The split rear window takes a bit of getting used to, but you don’t really notice it after a while. Great family car.
The Eclipse Cross stands out in the crowded family SUV segment by offering distinctive styling without compromising on practicality. It combines Mitsubishi’s reputation for reliability with modern technology and generous interior space. The driving experience is engaging and refined, making both daily commutes and longer family trips enjoyable.