The Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross arrived in 2017. It quickly found its own place. Many car lovers truly want their vehicles to be unique. We want them to show off our personal style. Maybe even our driving preferences. Two big changes often come to mind for us. Aftermarket suspension tuning is one. Adding cool body kits is another. But here’s the thing, how do these changes affect the Eclipse Cross? What about its performance? And what about how it looks? Let’s talk about this interesting stuff in detail.
A Look Back: The Evolution of Car Personalization
People have always loved customizing their vehicles. Think way back to early hot rods. Folks would chop and channel them. They aimed for better speed. They also wanted a distinct look. This passion only grew stronger over time. Customization became a huge industry. It shifted from simple backyard garages to big, specialized shops. Cars became canvases for personal expression. The aftermarket scene just exploded. Now, even family SUVs get this special treatment. It’s no secret that owners want their vehicle to stand out. Frankly, who doesn’t want their ride to feel like *them*?
Understanding Aftermarket Suspension Tuning
Changing your suspension can make a huge difference. It truly transforms any vehicle’s feel. When we talk about aftermarket tuning, we mean modifying the car’s suspension system. This includes the shocks, springs, and sway bars. For the Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross, these changes can improve handling. They can also change ride comfort. Honestly, they can even make your car look better. It’s about how the car connects to the road.
More Control: Performance Improvements
Many enthusiasts tune their suspension for one big reason. They want better performance. A study from Car and Driver showed something interesting. Cars with aftermarket suspension can improve cornering by up to 30%. That’s a lot! This helps the Eclipse Cross, especially. It was built for comfort, you see. Its stock form can feel a bit soft. Lowering your car’s center of gravity helps a lot. Suspension tuning makes it more stable. It also makes it react faster. Imagine taking a sharp corner. Your modified Eclipse Cross just grips the road. That feels good, right? It truly inspires confidence.
Making it Yours: Customization and Aesthetics
Performance isn’t the only thing, though. Suspension tuning lets you create an aggressive stance. Many drivers really like this unique look. Picture this: you pull up to a car meet. Your Eclipse Cross sits low. It has those cool, custom wheels. That turns heads. A survey from Automotive News found something important. About 65% of car lovers care a lot about how their car looks. It’s a huge factor for them. The Eclipse Cross can look so much better. A well-tuned suspension helps body kits shine. It really improves the whole vehicle’s appearance. It’s about making a statement.
The Balance Act: Ride Comfort vs. Performance
There’s a catch, though. Tuning can mean giving something up. A firmer suspension helps with handling. But it might make the ride less comfy. The Eclipse Cross is known for its smooth ride. Changing the suspension could alter that. A J.D. Power survey revealed a key point. Most SUV owners, about 72%, value comfort first. So, when you tune, you must find a balance. It needs to fit your daily driving. It also needs to match your style. It’s a personal preference, truly. You decide what matters most.
Popular Aftermarket Suspension Options for Eclipse Cross
You have many choices for suspension upgrades. We’re talking about the Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross here. Several options are quite popular. Each offers something different.
The Combined Power: Coilover Kits
Coilovers are a top pick for many enthusiasts. These units bring springs and shock absorbers together. They are one complete system. This setup lets you adjust ride height easily. You can also tune the damping. Brands like BC Racing and Tein offer these kits. They can truly help the Eclipse Cross handle better. BC Racing claims their coilovers can drop the car by two inches. They also provide a much quicker response. That’s a big change. Think about a custom feel.
On the Fly Adjustments: Air Suspension
Air suspension offers amazing control. It’s perfect if you want top comfort and adjustability. Systems like Bagged by Air Lift are great. Drivers can change ride height with just a button press. This flexibility is really good. It offers the best of both worlds. You get comfort for daily trips. You also get that low stance for car shows. Research from SEMA shows a big trend. Air suspension sales rose by 50% in five years. More enthusiasts are choosing it. It’s a growing passion.
Reducing the Sway: Sway Bars and Strut Braces
Upgrading sway bars helps too. Adding strut braces also improves handling. Stiffer sway bars reduce body roll. This happens especially during turns. It makes the car feel more stable. An analysis by Motor Trend found something interesting. Cars with upgraded sway bars see a 15-20% boost. Their cornering stability improves a lot. It’s definitely a good addition for the Eclipse Cross. It makes a real difference. Sometimes small changes matter most.
Body Kits: Changing Looks and Boosting Performance
We’ve talked about suspension tuning. Now, let’s explore body kits. These kits can totally transform your Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross. They change its appearance dramatically. They also offer some real benefits for how the car performs. It’s more than just looks.
Different Styles: Types of Body Kits
Body kits usually include new bumpers. You get a front and rear one. Side skirts are also part of the package. Sometimes, spoilers are included too. For the Eclipse Cross, a few types are really popular. Full body kits are comprehensive. They include all the major parts. Brands like Duraflex and VIS Racing make these. They can give your Eclipse Cross a much tougher look. Lip kits are less intense. They are simple add-ons for the front and rear. They can make your car more aerodynamic. It’s a subtle change. Fender flares are another option. These let you fit wider tires. This gives a sporty look. It also helps with performance. Different strokes for different folks, right?
Trusted Names: Popular Body Kit Brands
Some brands truly stand out for the Eclipse Cross. Mugen and TRD are known for performance designs. Aero Function focuses on style and function. Data from Import Tuner Magazine is quite telling. The Eclipse Cross is a top-ten SUV for modifications. This is thanks to so many quality body kits available. It shows its popularity.
First Impressions: Aesthetic Impact
The visual effect of a body kit is huge. You can’t ignore it. A study from Automotive Research showed something important. Body kits can increase perceived value. We’re talking 15-20% more for potential buyers. Imagine driving your Eclipse Cross. It has that sleek body kit. People stare. They admire it wherever you go. It’s more than just looking good. It’s about showing off your personality. It makes a statement. Your car speaks volumes.
Stock vs. Modified: A Comparison
Let’s really see the benefits of modifications. We can compare two cars. One is a standard Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross. The other has suspension tuning. It also has a cool body kit. This comparison highlights key differences.
Driving Experience: Handling and Performance
A stock Eclipse Cross is built for comfort. It’s perfect for daily commuting. But it might struggle when cornering hard. High-speed maneuvers can feel wobbly. A modified version would drive very differently. With tuned suspension and sway bars, handling improves a lot. Car reviewers have noticed something. Tuned vehicles have less body roll. Their steering feedback is also better. This makes for a much more exciting drive. It truly changes the experience. It feels more connected.
The Ride: Comfort Level
Tuning suspension helps performance. But it can affect comfort. The standard Eclipse Cross offers a soft ride. This might be lost for a firmer setup. That trade-off is worth thinking about. Especially if you drive in the city often. Comfort is really important there. It’s a personal decision. You choose your priority.
Visual Impact: Aesthetic Appeal
The visual change is stunning. A stock Eclipse Cross looks good. But a modified one really catches your eye. Visual upgrades make the car unique. They make it feel truly personal. It truly looks amazing. People will remember it.
Professional Insights: Expert Opinions
I believe it’s so important to hear from experts. Many automotive pros stress one thing. Choosing quality parts is key. Mike Johnson is a well-known car journalist. He says this: Good aftermarket parts lead to big improvements. They help both performance and how long things last. Think about that.
Sarah Lee, a famous suspension expert, offers another view. A well-tuned suspension changes everything, she states. It’s not just about lowering your car. It’s about finding the right balance. Comfort and performance need to work together.
These insights show the value of smart modifications. You don’t just slap parts on. You improve the whole driving experience. To be honest, it’s about making a thoughtful choice. It’s an investment.
Looking Ahead: Future Trends
The world of car modifications keeps changing. This applies to vehicles like the Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross too. What’s next for us? I am eager to find out!
Smart Systems: Technology-Driven Enhancements
Technology moves fast. Drivers want smarter suspension systems. They want systems that adjust on their own. They can change based on how you drive. Brands like MagRide offer adaptive suspension. These could soon be standard aftermarket options. That’s pretty exciting. Imagine your car adapting to every road condition.
Being Green: Sustainability in Modifications
Sustainability is a big deal everywhere. The car world is no different. Expect to see more eco-friendly body kits. They will be made from recycled stuff. Manufacturers are starting to see this demand. People want products that are good for the planet. It’s something we should all support. Every little bit helps.
Customizing Everything: 3D Printing
Imagine this: you design a car part on your computer. Then, you simply print it. 3D printing will change modifications entirely. It will allow for truly custom solutions. These will be made just for you. Your specific taste will guide the design. I am excited to see this come to life. It will make every car unique. Talk about personal touch!
Actionable Steps: Making Smart Choices
So, you’re thinking about modifying your Eclipse Cross. First, set a budget. High-quality parts can be pricey. Next, do your research. Find parts designed for your car. Read reviews from other owners. Look for reputable shops for installation. A bad install can cause problems. It’s always smart to talk to experts. Ask them questions. Understand the pros and cons. Think about your driving habits too. Do you want comfort or speed? That choice affects your modifications. Always check your warranty details. Some changes might void it. Also, tell your insurance company. You want to be covered. Taking these steps helps ensure a great experience. It prevents headaches.
FAQs and Common Misconceptions
Here are some common questions. We’ll also clear up some myths.
What if I modify my car? Will it void my warranty?
Yes, some changes can void parts of your warranty. It’s smart to talk to your dealer first. Get all the details.
Do body kits change my insurance rates?
Modifications can increase insurance premiums. You should always tell your insurance provider. Let them know about any changes.
Can I put on a body kit myself?
Some kits are simple enough to do yourself. But it’s often better to get a professional. They ensure the best results.
Will modifying my car make it hard to resell?
It depends on the modifications. Very specific or extreme changes can limit buyers. A tasteful mod might even help.
Are aftermarket suspension systems always stiffer?
Not always. Some systems offer adjustable comfort settings. Air suspension is a good example.
Are body kits only for looks?
No, some kits improve aerodynamics. They can reduce drag. This offers functional benefits too.
How much does aftermarket tuning usually cost?
Costs vary a lot. It depends on the parts. It also depends on the shop. Budget wisely.
Can modifications affect fuel efficiency?
Yes, some changes can impact fuel use. Heavier parts or different aerodynamics might affect it.
Is it legal to modify my suspension?
Laws vary by location. Some states have height restrictions. Always check your local regulations.
What if I don’t like the changes? Can I go back to stock?
Yes, most modifications can be reversed. This might involve additional costs. Keep your original parts.
Do all body kits require painting?
Most body kits come unpainted. They need a proper paint match. This ensures a seamless look.
Are cheap aftermarket parts okay to use?
Using cheap parts can lead to issues. They might not fit well. They could also fail faster. Quality matters for safety.
How long do suspension modifications last?
This depends on the quality of parts. It also depends on driving conditions. Regular maintenance helps.
Do body kits reduce ground clearance?
Yes, many body kits lower ground clearance. Be careful over bumps and steep driveways.
What is the most popular modification for the Eclipse Cross?
Many owners opt for wheels and tires first. Suspension and body kits come next. They change the whole vibe.
Conclusion: Making the Right Choices
So, the world of aftermarket tuning is vast. Body kits offer so many ways to improve your Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross. Performance and looks are big benefits. But you also need to think about comfort. And quality. These things truly matter. Technology keeps moving forward. Sustainability is also becoming key. I am excited to see how they shape car personalization.
Whether you want better handling, a cooler look, or just a unique car, choices abound. I am happy to know so many options exist. Imagine cruising down the road. Your vehicle shows off your style. It also gives you an amazing drive. After all, your car is an extension of you. With the right changes, it can truly be one of a kind.
