The 2018 Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross: A Bold Yet Polarizing Crossover Debut
Mitsubishi's 2018 Eclipse Cross merges SUV practicality with sports car styling in a controversial package. Debuting at the Los Angeles Auto Show, this compact crossover features turbocharged power, advanced tech, and design elements that divide opinion among auto enthusiasts.
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A Design That Sparks Debate
When Mitsubishi announced it would revive the Eclipse nameplate for a crossover, the automotive world took notice. The resulting 2018 Eclipse Cross attempts to blend the brand's sports car heritage with contemporary SUV trends, creating a vehicle that's as conversation-starting as it is unconventional.
Exterior Styling: Love It or Hate It
The Eclipse Cross presents several distinctive design elements:
- Front fascia: Dominated by Mitsubishi's signature "Dynamic Shield" grille, now more prominent than ever
- Profile: Wedge-shaped silhouette with a rising beltline and floating roof effect
- Rear design: Controversial high-mounted taillights that slice through the rear glass
- Overall proportions: Nose-heavy appearance with short rear overhang
Interior and Technology Features
Inside, the Eclipse Cross offers a more conventional approach with some notable tech highlights:
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Centerpiece: The Floating Display
The dashboard features a tablet-style touchscreen mounted high on the center stack, reminiscent of Mazda's MZD Connect system. This 7-inch display (optional upgrade to 8-inch) can be controlled through:
- Direct touch input
- Console-mounted touchpad controller
- Steering wheel-mounted controls
Advanced Driver Assistance Systems
Mitsubishi packed the Eclipse Cross with available safety tech:
- Forward Collision Mitigation
- Lane Departure Warning
- Adaptive Cruise Control
- Automatic High Beams
Powertrain and Performance
At its LA Auto Show debut, Mitsubishi confirmed key details about the U.S.-spec Eclipse Cross:
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Turbocharged Motivation
The Eclipse Cross marks Mitsubishi's return to turbocharged engines in the U.S. market with:
- 1.5L direct-injection turbocharged 4-cylinder engine
- Estimated 152 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque
- Standard CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission)
- Available S-AWC (Super All-Wheel Control) system
Market Positioning and Competition
Slotting between the Outlander and Outlander Sport in Mitsubishi's lineup, the Eclipse Cross targets the hotly contested compact crossover segment, competing with:
- Honda HR-V
- Mazda CX-5
- Toyota RAV4
- Nissan Rogue Sport
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Global SUV Strategy
As revealed at the Geneva Motor Show earlier in 2017, the Eclipse Cross represents the first of three new SUVs Mitsubishi plans to launch worldwide, signaling the brand's renewed focus on utility vehicles.
LA Auto Show Debut and Availability
Mitsubishi unveiled the U.S.-spec Eclipse Cross on November 29, 2017, with:
- Production beginning in early 2018
- First deliveries expected spring 2018
- Pricing starting around $24,000 for base ES model
Key Takeaway: The 2018 Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross represents a bold gamble for the automaker, combining controversial styling with practical SUV packaging and turbocharged performance. While its design may polarize buyers, its tech features and driving dynamics could win over compact crossover shoppers looking for something different.
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Looking Ahead: The Eclipse Cross Legacy
The Eclipse Cross's reception at the LA Auto Show provided early indications of how the market might respond to Mitsubishi's unconventional approach. Early reviews noted:
- Surprisingly engaging driving dynamics for the class
- Generous standard equipment levels
- Questionable rear visibility due to the split rear glass design
- Competitive cargo space behind the rear seats
As Mitsubishi's first new model following its alliance with Nissan, the Eclipse Cross signaled a new direction for the brand - one that would increasingly focus on crossovers and SUVs while maintaining its reputation for value and capability.
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