Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross(2022) Updated.

We were lucky enough to spend time with the recently updated Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross 1.5 T GLS 4×2 variant, this is a first time this segment has been updated with a turbo charged motor making 110kw and 250nm, it now competes head to head with the rest of class. If you prefer the most reliable tried and tested Mitsubishi 2.0L 16v motor you can still purchase it with the update but it is the “base” model variant producing the same 110kws but only 198nm.

Mitsubishi is like the old faithful when it comes to car brands, it’s been around years, build quality is solid, motors bulletproof, extremely reliable and easily sourced parts anywhere in South Africa, even with the 2.0L motors surprisingly still fuel efficient. So yes nothings changed here, the Eclipse cross is all of that.

Engine, Transmission, and Performance

The Eclipse Cross’s turbocharged four-cylinder isn’t going to set anyone’s hearts on fire. Paired with a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT), the engine delivers power smoothly. Aggressive throttle applications evoke less engine noise than expected, and highway cruising is minimal and unremarkable—just what we want from the more refined crossovers in this class. The Eclipse Cross’s suspension is clearly tuned for a more comfortable ride; taking corners at speed results in moderate body roll. That softness pays off in its ride quality, with the chassis remaining composed while driving over pot hole riddled roads and crossings. Steering is accurate and light—good for parking-lot manoeuvrability but discouraging for back-road antics it would be nice to maybe have a sports button or a option to change the steering feel.

Fuel Economy and Real-World KM/100 tests

Fuel-economy results are entirely average not amazing but not terrible. Manufacture claims the Eclipse Cross is supposed to do better in the city than many of its rivals, so consider your driving habits when making comparisons. The base model is the heavier with 7.9L/100kms combined. Our Top spec Eclipse Cross GLS test vehicle delivered 8.2L/100km in our 120km highway fuel economy test we couldn’t match the claimed figures.

Interior, Comfort, and Cargo

The interior of the Eclipse Cross isn’t what you’d expect at its price point. There aren’t any egregiously cheap materials, but some rivals such as the Mazda CX-5 offer plusher cabins if you’re willing to pay a little more. The seats are wrapped in a stylish, durable Leather like material, and while cushioning was more than adequate, the lack adjustment left us feeling ever so slightly cramped the seats don’t go all the way back nor all the way down so your limited on driver legroom but Lucky the heated seats made us forget about it as it worked its magic in the cold Cape Town mornings. The Eclipse Cross has enough cargo space for a small family, but cubby storage becomes scarce with more than three occupants on board.  A stroller fits easily in the cargo area with all the seats up as tested.

• Boot size (seats up): 437-litres
• Boot size (seats down): 1 074-litres

Infotainment and Connectivity

All Eclipse Cross models come standard with a touchscreen infotainment system. Base models offer a 7.0-inch display, and GLx  models have a larger 8.0-inch screen. Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and in-dash navigation are available only with the 8.0-inch display. With dash designs the way they are lately the screen could have been integrated better, it looks a little like an after thought stuck to the top of the dash.

Mitsubishi Eclipse Colours

• Solid White
• Red Diamond
• Sporty Blue
• Titanium Grey Metallic
• Sterling Silver Metallic