Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross (2026)
A comfortable AWD value with a long warranty, best for relaxed daily driving.
The Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross (2026) is the sensible snow-day realist of compact SUVs, built for commuters and small families who want affordable all-weather confidence without paying extra for AWD. Its standard S-AWC all-wheel drive, comfortable seats, clear visibility, and long warranty support that mission, and owners generally find it reassuring, practical, and easy to live with. The catch is that real-world feedback undercuts any sporty promise: the 152-hp turbo and CVT feel noisy and slow during highway merges, while soft suspension brings body roll. At roughly $27,700 to $35,900, it offers compelling traction and coverage, but rivals deliver better efficiency, polish, and technology. Its overall appeal depends on how much comfort, warranty security, and AWD value outweigh dated tech and modest performance.
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Benefits
S-AWC helps you feel planted through snow, rain, and everyday slippery streets.
Supportive seats, clear visibility, and a composed ride make commuting and errands feel easy.
Long powertrain coverage reduces worry when you plan to keep the SUV for years.
A roomy adjustable rear seat, five-passenger layout, and available features suit everyday family trips.
Trade-Offs
The engine and CVT get loud when merging, while acceleration takes patience on faster roads.
Small screens, dated graphics, and wired phone integration make everyday navigation and music less seamless.
Low-resolution cameras can make parking and reversing harder when you need a clear view.
Soft suspension and vague steering bring body roll, making curves feel less settled than expected.
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Publications
2 LEADING PUBLICATION REVIEWS
Car and Driver is lukewarm on the 2026 Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross, calling it acceptable but easy to overlook. Its distinctive styling, quiet cabin, comfortable ride, roomy rear seat, standard all-wheel drive, and strong warranty coverage make it a sensible budget choice. The mid-level SE trim is particularly appealing because it adds adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, and dual-zone climate control without a major price jump. Still, the Eclipse Cross feels outclassed by quicker, more efficient, and better-equipped rivals. Its 152-hp engine produces leisurely acceleration, fuel economy is merely average, handling is uninspiring, and the soft suspension allows body roll while transmitting some road vibration. The base model is especially bare-bones, and even upper trims have small screens and limited smartphone integration. With a 6/10 rating, the verdict is clear: this Mitsubishi is reasonably priced and competent, but not compelling.
By Beth Nichols
CARFAX gives the 2026 Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross a clearly mixed, underwhelmed assessment. Its strongest virtues are affordability, standard all-wheel drive, generous equipment, and an excellent 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty. The base ES is especially appealing for value, while the SUV offers comfortable seats, straightforward physical controls, and decent towing capacity. But the 1.5-liter turbo and CVT are the main letdowns, producing noisy, sluggish acceleration and disappointing fuel economy. The dated touchscreen and aging cabin further weaken its appeal, while limited cargo room, poor rear visibility, and intrusive road noise make it feel less polished than rivals such as the Honda CR-V, Hyundai Tucson, and Toyota Corolla Cross. Although the reviewer found it surprisingly agile and appreciated its supportive interior, the overall verdict is that the Eclipse Cross is a sensible bargain rather than an exciting or refined choice.
By Warren Clarke
YouTube
11 LEADING EXPERT & INFLUENCER REVIEWS
TheStraightPipesThe Straight Pipes are mildly positive about the Eclipse Cross, finding it better than expected but hard to recommend. They appreciate its comfortable ride, standard S-AWC all-wheel drive, useful 360-degree camera, physical controls, heated seats and wheel, roomy rear seat, and distinctive styling. But enthusiasm fades behind the wheel: the 152-hp turbo feels weak, the CVT responds slowly, fuel economy is poor, handling brings heavy understeer and body roll, and the seats lack comfort and lumbar support. Safety ratings and Mitsubishi’s limited dealer network also concern them. Their verdict is blunt: it’s fine, but rivals such as the CX-5, Kona, Seltos, and Corolla Cross are better choices.
MotorWeekMotorWeek is positive about the updated Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross, viewing it as a stronger, more practical value-oriented crossover. The redesigned exterior, extra cargo room, improved touchscreen, comfortable front seats, and standard safety features earn praise, while S-AWC provides surprisingly good grip and steering feels direct. Still, the soft suspension produces noticeable body roll and nose dive, and the 152-hp turbo feels sluggish once speeds rise, with a measured 0–60 time of 8.6 seconds. Overall, MotorWeek sees the Eclipse Cross as more mainstream than distinctive, but believes its added capability and functionality improve its long-term appeal.
TheStraightPipesThe Straight Pipes are mildly positive about the Eclipse Cross, finding it better than expected but hard to recommend. They appreciate its comfortable ride, standard S-AWC all-wheel drive, useful 360-degree camera, physical controls, heated seats and wheel, roomy rear seat, and distinctive styling. But enthusiasm fades behind the wheel: the 152-hp turbo feels weak, the CVT responds slowly, fuel economy is poor, handling brings heavy understeer and body roll, and the seats lack comfort and lumbar support. Safety ratings and Mitsubishi’s limited dealer network also concern them. Their verdict is blunt: it’s fine, but rivals such as the CX-5, Kona, Seltos, and Corolla Cross are better choices.
MotorWeekMotorWeek is positive about the updated Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross, viewing it as a stronger, more practical value-oriented crossover. The redesigned exterior, extra cargo room, improved touchscreen, comfortable front seats, and standard safety features earn praise, while S-AWC provides surprisingly good grip and steering feels direct. Still, the soft suspension produces noticeable body roll and nose dive, and the 152-hp turbo feels sluggish once speeds rise, with a measured 0–60 time of 8.6 seconds. Overall, MotorWeek sees the Eclipse Cross as more mainstream than distinctive, but believes its added capability and functionality improve its long-term appeal.
TheStraightPipesThe Straight Pipes are mildly positive about the Eclipse Cross, finding it better than expected but hard to recommend. They appreciate its comfortable ride, standard S-AWC all-wheel drive, useful 360-degree camera, physical controls, heated seats and wheel, roomy rear seat, and distinctive styling. But enthusiasm fades behind the wheel: the 152-hp turbo feels weak, the CVT responds slowly, fuel economy is poor, handling brings heavy understeer and body roll, and the seats lack comfort and lumbar support. Safety ratings and Mitsubishi’s limited dealer network also concern them. Their verdict is blunt: it’s fine, but rivals such as the CX-5, Kona, Seltos, and Corolla Cross are better choices.
MotorWeekMotorWeek is positive about the updated Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross, viewing it as a stronger, more practical value-oriented crossover. The redesigned exterior, extra cargo room, improved touchscreen, comfortable front seats, and standard safety features earn praise, while S-AWC provides surprisingly good grip and steering feels direct. Still, the soft suspension produces noticeable body roll and nose dive, and the 152-hp turbo feels sluggish once speeds rise, with a measured 0–60 time of 8.6 seconds. Overall, MotorWeek sees the Eclipse Cross as more mainstream than distinctive, but believes its added capability and functionality improve its long-term appeal.
TheStraightPipesThe Straight Pipes are mildly positive about the Eclipse Cross, finding it better than expected but hard to recommend. They appreciate its comfortable ride, standard S-AWC all-wheel drive, useful 360-degree camera, physical controls, heated seats and wheel, roomy rear seat, and distinctive styling. But enthusiasm fades behind the wheel: the 152-hp turbo feels weak, the CVT responds slowly, fuel economy is poor, handling brings heavy understeer and body roll, and the seats lack comfort and lumbar support. Safety ratings and Mitsubishi’s limited dealer network also concern them. Their verdict is blunt: it’s fine, but rivals such as the CX-5, Kona, Seltos, and Corolla Cross are better choices.
MotorWeekMotorWeek is positive about the updated Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross, viewing it as a stronger, more practical value-oriented crossover. The redesigned exterior, extra cargo room, improved touchscreen, comfortable front seats, and standard safety features earn praise, while S-AWC provides surprisingly good grip and steering feels direct. Still, the soft suspension produces noticeable body roll and nose dive, and the 152-hp turbo feels sluggish once speeds rise, with a measured 0–60 time of 8.6 seconds. Overall, MotorWeek sees the Eclipse Cross as more mainstream than distinctive, but believes its added capability and functionality improve its long-term appeal.
TheStraightPipesThe Straight Pipes are mildly positive about the Eclipse Cross, finding it better than expected but hard to recommend. They appreciate its comfortable ride, standard S-AWC all-wheel drive, useful 360-degree camera, physical controls, heated seats and wheel, roomy rear seat, and distinctive styling. But enthusiasm fades behind the wheel: the 152-hp turbo feels weak, the CVT responds slowly, fuel economy is poor, handling brings heavy understeer and body roll, and the seats lack comfort and lumbar support. Safety ratings and Mitsubishi’s limited dealer network also concern them. Their verdict is blunt: it’s fine, but rivals such as the CX-5, Kona, Seltos, and Corolla Cross are better choices.
MotorWeekMotorWeek is positive about the updated Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross, viewing it as a stronger, more practical value-oriented crossover. The redesigned exterior, extra cargo room, improved touchscreen, comfortable front seats, and standard safety features earn praise, while S-AWC provides surprisingly good grip and steering feels direct. Still, the soft suspension produces noticeable body roll and nose dive, and the 152-hp turbo feels sluggish once speeds rise, with a measured 0–60 time of 8.6 seconds. Overall, MotorWeek sees the Eclipse Cross as more mainstream than distinctive, but believes its added capability and functionality improve its long-term appeal.
TheStraightPipesThe Straight Pipes are mildly positive about the Eclipse Cross, finding it better than expected but hard to recommend. They appreciate its comfortable ride, standard S-AWC all-wheel drive, useful 360-degree camera, physical controls, heated seats and wheel, roomy rear seat, and distinctive styling. But enthusiasm fades behind the wheel: the 152-hp turbo feels weak, the CVT responds slowly, fuel economy is poor, handling brings heavy understeer and body roll, and the seats lack comfort and lumbar support. Safety ratings and Mitsubishi’s limited dealer network also concern them. Their verdict is blunt: it’s fine, but rivals such as the CX-5, Kona, Seltos, and Corolla Cross are better choices.
MotorWeekMotorWeek is positive about the updated Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross, viewing it as a stronger, more practical value-oriented crossover. The redesigned exterior, extra cargo room, improved touchscreen, comfortable front seats, and standard safety features earn praise, while S-AWC provides surprisingly good grip and steering feels direct. Still, the soft suspension produces noticeable body roll and nose dive, and the 152-hp turbo feels sluggish once speeds rise, with a measured 0–60 time of 8.6 seconds. Overall, MotorWeek sees the Eclipse Cross as more mainstream than distinctive, but believes its added capability and functionality improve its long-term appeal.
Social
1 INFLUENCER REVIEW
Khalifa Saleh Al HaroonKhalifa Saleh Al Haroon is clearly positive about the Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross, calling it simple and reliable. He appreciates its sharp styling, full-size spare, moonroof, head-up display, physical climate controls, leather seats, paddle shifters, and driver-assistance features. The 86,000 QAR starting price and Japanese manufacture add to its appeal. However, this is an upbeat first look rather than a critical test, with no discussion of fuel economy, ride quality, interior space, or meaningful drawbacks.
Forum Reviews
CUSTOMER REVIEWS FROM 1 FORUM
Redditors are cautiously positive about the 2026 Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross, valuing practicality and price more than excitement. Owners generally describe it as comfortable, reliable, well-equipped, and capable in snow, with useful cargo space and strong warranty value. The 1.5T provides adequate, sometimes surprisingly brisk performance, while the CVT is smooth when maintained. Critics find the handling vague, fuel economy mediocre, the cabin dated, and rear-seat space tight. Much of the negativity centers on the Eclipse name and crossover styling rather than serious mechanical faults, though long-term CVT durability and depreciation remain concerns. It appears a sensible, good-value purchase, but not a standout.
Many comments
In-Depth Review
Highlights
- •Standard All-Wheel DriveS-AWC adds confidence in poor weather.
- •Comfortable Daily CabinSupportive seats and clear visibility ease commuting.
- •Long Powertrain Warranty10-year coverage supports long-term ownership.
- •Useful Rear SpaceAdjustable seating suits small-family use.
Considerations
- •Sluggish Highway AccelerationThe turbo and CVT need patience.
- •Soft Cornering BehaviorBody roll and vague steering reduce confidence.
- •Mediocre Fuel EconomyReal-world consumption trails efficiency-focused rivals.
- •Outdated InfotainmentSmall screens and wired phone integration feel dated.
Mitsubishi has long built its reputation around practical, competitively priced vehicles, and the Eclipse Cross occupies the value end of the compact-SUV market. Its main appeal is standard S-AWC all-wheel drive, making it a sensible choice for commuters, small families, and drivers facing snow or rain. A 1.5-liter turbocharged engine brings useful low-speed torque, though the CVT’s response and highway performance deserve close attention. Compared with rivals that often charge extra for AWD, it counters with capability and a 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty, while giving up some efficiency, refinement, and technology polish. The comfortable ride, soft handling, cabin noise, and 23.4-cubic-foot cargo area help define its everyday strengths and compromises. Review the areas most important to your routine—because this is an AWD bargain with personality, not a shortcut to driving excitement.
Turbo Engine CVT
The Eclipse Cross is adequate in traffic but needs patience when speeds rise. Its 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder makes 152 hp and 184 lb-ft, while the CVT often feels slow to respond and gets noisy during merging or hill climbs. Testing around 8.6–8.7 seconds to 60 mph supports the reviewers’ view that it is not quick, although some owners find it brisk enough off the line. This setup suits relaxed commuting better than enthusiastic driving.
Fuel Economy Reality
Fuel economy is acceptable on paper but not a standout in daily use. The ES is rated around 25 city, 28 highway, and 26 combined mpg, while higher trims are closer to 25 combined, and feedback often describes real-world consumption as mediocre. Standard AWD adds capability but also limits efficiency, while the turbo engine and CVT can work hard during highway acceleration. That makes the Eclipse Cross a reasonable weather-focused choice, not an especially economical small SUV.
Cabin Noise Refinement
The cabin is comfortable and solidly equipped, but refinement varies by situation. Mitsubishi’s physical climate controls are easy to use, and several reviewers praise the seats, visibility, and reassuring build quality. Under throttle, though, the turbo engine and CVT become conspicuously loud, while road noise can intrude at speed. The small, dated touchscreen, wired phone integration, weak cameras, and occasional intrusive safety alerts also make the vehicle feel older than its warranty and AWD technology suggest.
Space And Utility
The Eclipse Cross offers useful everyday space without leading the segment. Its roomy adjustable rear seat provides 37.1 inches of legroom, while cargo capacity measures about 23.4 cubic feet behind the seats and 50.1 with them folded. That works well for groceries, commuting gear, and small-family use, and the vehicle can tow up to 1,500 pounds. Still, reviewers note limited cargo versatility and a tighter overall footprint than larger rivals, so frequent family haulers may want more room.
AWD And S-AWC
Standard traction hardware is the Eclipse Cross’s clearest practical advantage. Every trim uses S-AWC all-wheel drive, with Active Yaw Control helping distribute torque and maintain composure on wet or snowy roads. Selectable drive modes add useful flexibility, and reviewers generally describe the system as reassuring in ordinary winter conditions. It is not an off-road specialist, however: testing noted limited protection, no hill-descent control, and modest power on slippery terrain, so AWD should not be mistaken for trail capability.
Ride And Handling
The Eclipse Cross prioritizes comfort over cornering precision. Its comfort-oriented suspension absorbs ordinary bumps well, and supportive front seats, good visibility, and direct or communicative steering make city driving easy. The compromise is noticeable body roll, nose dive under braking, understeer, and occasionally vague steering, particularly when pushed through curves. User and expert reactions are broadly consistent here: it feels composed enough for commuting, but buyers wanting agile handling will find competitors more settled and engaging.
Conclusion
The Eclipse Cross makes its case with standard S-AWC AWD rather than speed or polish. Its 1.5-liter turbo and CVT are adequate around town but noisy and slow when merging, while the soft suspension delivers a comfortable ride at the expense of body control and steering confidence. Fuel economy is merely average, and road noise, dated infotainment, and blurry cameras reinforce its older design. Still, supportive seats, clear visibility, useful rear-seat space, and flexible cargo room make it practical for commuting and small-family duty. Owners appreciate its snow confidence and warranty, while experts see a sensible bargain that is easy to overlook beside sharper, more efficient rivals. Choose it if affordable all-weather traction and comfort matter most; skip it if you want refinement, agility, or standout efficiency. Its long powertrain warranty strengthens the value case, but the overall package remains a conditional recommendation rather than a clear segment leader.
Feature Scores
This reflects reviews and ratings from established critics, journalists, and users who have evaluated the item. Their opinions provide a comprehensive assessment.
Performance
Engine Power
2/5
Acceleration
2/5
Towing Capacity
3/5
Fuel Efficiency
2/5
Reliability
3/5
Durability
3/5
Value
Purchase Price
4/5
Operating Cost
3/5
Resale Value
2/5
Design
Interior Space
3/5
Cargo Capacity
3/5
Ergonomics
4/5
Exterior Styling
4/5
Health
Cabin Air Quality
TBD
Interior Material Toxicity
TBD
Safety
Crashworthiness
2/5
Active Driver Assistance
3/5
Braking Performance
3/5
Visibility and Lighting
3/5
Sustainability
Tailpipe Emissions
2/5
Fuel Lifecycle Emissions
2/5
Use of Recycled Materials
TBD
End-of-Life Recyclability
TBD
Experience Style
Infotainment Features
2/5
Ride Comfort Tuning
3/5
Customization Options
3/5
Specifications
This section outlines the product's key facts, covering essential features, details, dimensions, materials, and any unique characteristics that define its functionality and usability.
Performance
Value
Design
Safety
Sustainability
Experience Style
Frequently Asked Questions
6 Questions
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