2020 Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross: A Stylish and Practical Compact SUV
The 2020 Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross is a compact SUV that aims to blend distinctive styling with a practical and engaging driving experience. It offers a unique visual presence in a crowded segment, bolstered by a solid list of standard features and a commitment to value.
Highlights
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Engine and Performance: The 2020 Eclipse Cross is powered by a spirited 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine. This powerplant produces 152 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque, delivering a peppy and responsive feel, particularly in city driving. The engine is exclusively paired with a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) that is tuned for smooth acceleration and fuel efficiency. Available Super All-Wheel Control (S-AWC), Mitsubishi's advanced all-wheel-drive system, enhances traction and stability in various road conditions, making it a compelling option for those who frequently encounter inclement weather.
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Safety Features: Mitsubishi has equipped the 2020 Eclipse Cross with a commendable array of standard and available safety technologies. Standard across all trims is a multi-view camera system, offering a bird's-eye view of the vehicle's surroundings, invaluable for parking and navigating tight spaces. Other notable safety features include:
- Forward Collision Mitigation (FCM) with Pedestrian Detection: This system automatically applies the brakes if a potential frontal collision is detected, and can also identify pedestrians.
- Lane Departure Warning (LDW): Alerts the driver if the vehicle unintentionally drifts out of its lane.
- Blind Spot Warning (BSW) and Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA): BSW monitors the areas around the vehicle that are not visible in the side mirrors, while RCTA warns of approaching traffic when backing out of a parking space.
- Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC): Maintains a set speed and distance from the vehicle ahead, reducing driver fatigue on highways.
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Trim Summary: The 2020 Eclipse Cross is offered in three distinct trims, each building upon the previous with enhanced features and amenities:
- ES: The well-equipped base trim, offering a strong foundation of features including the multi-view camera, smartphone integration (Apple CarPlay and Android Auto), and a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system.
- SE: Adds desirable upgrades such as blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert, heated front seats, and keyless entry with push-button start.
- SEL: The top-tier trim, this model elevates the ownership experience with premium features like a power driver's seat, leather-appointed seating, a panoramic sunroof, and LED headlights.
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Other Notable Aspects: The Eclipse Cross stands out with its distinctive split-rear window design, which contributes to its unique aesthetic but can impact rearward visibility. The interior is practical and well-organized, with a focus on user-friendliness. The infotainment system is intuitive and responsive, offering seamless smartphone integration. The rear seats are adjustable, allowing for a customizable passenger and cargo space balance.
What to Expect
The typical ownership experience of a 2020 Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross is generally characterized by reliability and a straightforward approach to automotive needs. Mitsubishi vehicles are often praised for their dependability, and the Eclipse Cross is no exception. Routine maintenance will likely involve standard services such as oil changes, tire rotations, and filter replacements. Given its compact SUV nature, maintenance costs are typically competitive within its class.
Insurance premiums for the 2020 Eclipse Cross will vary based on individual driver profiles, location, and coverage choices, but are generally expected to be in line with other vehicles in the compact SUV segment. Mitsubishi's excellent warranty coverage, including a 5-year/60,000-mile limited warranty and a 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain limited warranty, can provide significant peace of mind for owners, potentially offsetting some long-term repair concerns.
Potential Considerations
While the 2020 Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross offers many positives, there are a few aspects potential buyers should be aware of. The most noticeable is the compromised rearward visibility due to the distinctive split-rear window design. This can make parking and maneuvering in tight spaces a bit more challenging, though the standard multi-view camera system helps mitigate this.
The CVT, while smooth, may not appeal to all drivers as it can sometimes exhibit a droning engine note under hard acceleration. For those seeking a more engaging driving experience with a traditional automatic transmission, the Eclipse Cross might fall short. Finally, the rear legroom in the back seat is not as generous as some of its competitors, which could be a factor for families with taller passengers or those who frequently carry adult passengers in the rear.
Overall Summary
The 2020 Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross is a compelling choice for those seeking a compact SUV that prioritizes distinctive styling, practicality, and value. Its turbocharged engine offers adequate power for daily driving, and the availability of S-AWC enhances its all-weather capability. The generous suite of standard safety features and Mitsubishi's impressive warranty further solidify its appeal. While the unique rear design impacts visibility and rear seat space could be more generous, the Eclipse Cross remains a well-rounded and sensible option in the competitive compact SUV market.