2018 Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross: A Detailed Overview
The 2018 Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross arrived as a fresh contender in the increasingly crowded compact SUV segment, aiming to blend sporty styling with practical utility and a touch of adventurous spirit. It's a vehicle that prioritizes a dynamic driving experience and distinctive design within its class.
Highlights
- Engine & Performance: Under the hood, the 2018 Eclipse Cross is powered by a 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine. This powerplant delivers a peppy 152 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque, offering a responsive and engaging driving experience, especially for city driving and spirited acceleration. It's exclusively paired with a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) that Mitsubishi has tuned for a more natural feel with simulated gear shifts.
- Safety Features: Mitsubishi equipped the Eclipse Cross with a suite of advanced safety technologies designed to enhance driver awareness and mitigate potential collisions. Key features include:
- Forward Collision Mitigation (FCM): Uses radar and camera systems to detect potential frontal impacts and automatically applies the brakes if a collision is imminent.
- Lane Departure Warning (LDW): Alerts the driver if the vehicle begins to drift out of its lane without the turn signal engaged.
- Blind Spot Warning (BSW) & Lane Change Assist (LCA): BSW warns of vehicles in the driver's blind spots, while LCA provides an audible and visual alert if a lane change is attempted when a vehicle is detected in the blind spot.
- Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA): Detects approaching traffic when the vehicle is backing out of a parking space and provides a warning.
- Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) (available on higher trims): Automatically adjusts the vehicle's speed to maintain a safe distance from the vehicle ahead, reducing driver fatigue on longer journeys.
- Trim Levels: The 2018 Eclipse Cross was offered in several distinct trims, each building upon the previous with increasing levels of comfort, technology, and convenience. The primary trims were:
- ES: The entry-level trim provides a solid foundation of standard features.
- SE: Adds more convenience and technology, often including upgraded infotainment and exterior elements.
- SEL: The mid-level trim offers a good balance of features, often including advanced safety systems.
- GT (Premium/Touring in some markets): The top-tier trim typically includes the most luxurious appointments, advanced driver-assistance systems, and premium audio.
- Distinctive Styling: One of the Eclipse Cross's standout features is its bold and unique exterior design. It features sharp lines, a sculpted body, and a distinctive split rear window with a horizontal bar, giving it a memorable presence on the road.
- Super All-Wheel Control (S-AWC): Available on select trims, Mitsubishi's S-AWC system is a sophisticated all-wheel-drive system that not only enhances traction in slippery conditions but also actively manages torque distribution between the front and rear wheels, and even left and right rear wheels, for improved handling and cornering stability.
What to Expect
The typical ownership experience of a 2018 Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross is generally positive for those seeking a stylish and engaging compact SUV. The 1.5-liter turbo engine offers good acceleration for everyday driving, and the CVT, while not the most exciting transmission, is smooth and efficient. Ride quality is generally well-balanced, offering a comfortable experience for commuting and longer trips.
Maintenance for the Eclipse Cross is typically on par with other vehicles in its class. Regular oil changes, tire rotations, and fluid checks are essential. Mitsubishi vehicles generally have a reputation for reliability, and the Eclipse Cross is expected to follow suit, provided it is maintained according to the manufacturer's recommended schedule.
Insurance costs will vary based on individual factors such as driving record, location, and chosen coverage. However, as a mainstream compact SUV, the Eclipse Cross generally falls within average insurance premiums for its segment. It's always advisable to obtain quotes from multiple insurance providers.
Potential Considerations
While the 2018 Eclipse Cross offers many strengths, there are a few aspects buyers should be aware of:
- Rear Visibility: The distinctive split rear window, while stylish, can impact rearward visibility, especially when parking or in low-light conditions. Drivers may need to rely more heavily on the rearview camera and other parking aids.
- Interior Materials: While the cabin is well-designed and functional, some of the interior materials, particularly on lower trims, may not feel as premium as some competitors.
- Infotainment System: The infotainment system, while functional, might not be as intuitive or as feature-rich as some of the latest offerings in the segment. Touchscreen responsiveness can also be a point of contention for some users.
- Engine Power (for some): While the 1.5-liter turbo is adequate for most situations, some drivers seeking more potent acceleration might find it slightly lacking compared to some competitors with larger or more powerful engine options.
Overall Summary
The 2018 Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross stands out as a stylish and engaging compact SUV that offers a compelling alternative in its segment. Its distinctive design, spirited turbocharged engine, and available S-AWC all-wheel-drive system make it an attractive option for drivers who appreciate a bit of flair and confident handling. While it may have a few minor drawbacks in terms of interior materials and rear visibility, its solid safety features and generally good ownership experience solidify its position as a noteworthy choice for those seeking a practical yet visually appealing crossover.