The compact SUV world, it’s honestly buzzing. It’s a super competitive place. But the Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross carved out its own niche. Have you ever imagined a ride that looks truly sharp? It’s also incredibly practical for daily use. This car really blends good pricing with many cool features. We should see how its cost stacks up. We will also check its true value at every trim level. We’ll dig into facts, numbers, and clear insights. You’ll then spot exactly where this SUV genuinely fits.
Understanding the Price
The Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross starts around $26,000. That’s for the base ES model. This price feels pretty good, right? It stands up well against top sellers. Think about the Honda CR-V. It usually begins at about $28,000. The Toyota RAV4 starts around $27,575. Looking at these figures, the Eclipse Cross offers a budget-friendly start. It truly saves you some cash from the get-go.
Of course, prices shift quite a bit with different trims. The Eclipse Cross has several versions. These include the SE, LE, and SEL. Each one adds more features and costs more. The highest trim, the SEL, can reach about $34,000. This price point puts it against vehicles like the Mazda CX-30. It also competes with the Subaru Crosstrek. Their prices can range from $25,000 to $35,000. It simply depends on the trim and what options you pick.
But here’s the thing: price isn’t the only factor. We really must look at what each car offers. I believe seeing the features at every level is equally important. It helps you make a super smart choice.
Breaking Down Each Trim
The Eclipse Cross comes in four main trim levels. Each one offers unique features and smart tech. It’s definitely worth checking them all out.
ES Trim: This one starts around $26,000. It’s the very base model. You get key features here. A rearview camera comes standard. It has a 7-inch touchscreen, too. A simple 4-speaker audio system is included. You get the basics, no frills. But it’s enough for reliable transport. For many, that’s exactly what they need. It gets you where you’re going.
SE Trim: This model costs about $28,000. The SE adds more to the ES. You’ll find handy fog lights. It has a bigger 8-inch touchscreen. It also includes extra safety gear. Forward collision mitigation is one example. Honestly, for just a few thousand dollars more, the value truly jumps up. It feels like a solid deal.
LE Trim: The LE is priced around $30,000. This trim feels a bit more upscale. It offers options like a panoramic sunroof. A premium audio system is available. If you enjoy a little luxury, consider this trim. It makes daily drives much more pleasant.
SEL Trim: This is the top-of-the-line option. It’s close to $34,000. It includes many premium features. You get soft leather seats. There’s a head-up display for drivers. A full suite of advanced safety tech is included. For folks wanting everything, the SEL trim is very compelling. It brings the full experience.
Compare these features to the Mazda CX-30. The Mazda has a similar start price. But it often misses some advanced safety features. That’s true in its lower trims. So, the Eclipse Cross looks like a strong option. It gives you more for your money. Think about that difference.
Real Value Across Trims
Let’s talk about the value each trim truly brings. What really sets the Eclipse Cross apart? It balances price with features. Consider the SE trim, for instance. It offers a big upgrade in tech and safety. And it’s for just a small price increase. That’s a smart move.
A recent study by Kelley Blue Book is quite interesting. They found the Eclipse Cross ranks high. It has strong resale value among compact SUVs. This fact tells us something important. The initial price is good. But the car also keeps its worth over time. Imagine owning a car that feels great. It also holds its financial value. That’s a double win for buyers.
Plus, Mitsubishi’s warranty is truly impressive. The Eclipse Cross boasts a 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty. This is one of the best around. That kind of assurance helps so much. It matters for buyers worried about long-term costs. It offers real peace of mind. To be honest, that kind of coverage is a huge bonus.
Comparing to Other SUVs
We need to place the Eclipse Cross against its rivals. Let’s look at the Nissan Rogue. Also the Ford Escape. It’s important to see what your money gets you. Every car is different.
The Nissan Rogue starts at about $28,000. People like its roomy interior. It has many safety features too. But, many drivers say its basic model lacks tech. It misses the modern feel of the Eclipse Cross. The Ford Escape also starts around $28,000. It offers a more fun driving feel. Yet, it often lacks advanced safety. These are available even in lower Eclipse Cross trims. This difference is truly worth noting.
When we check all the features, it becomes clear. Some rivals might have a bigger brand name. Or they might have more space inside. But the Eclipse Cross really shines. It gives you key features for a lower cost. This makes it a smart choice for many. It’s about practical value.
A Look Back: Eclipse Cross History
To appreciate this Mitsubishi SUV now, let’s go back in time. We need to see how it came to be. The Eclipse Cross first hit the scene in 2018. It actually took the spot of the Mitsubishi Outlander Sport. Early on, it faced some criticism. People questioned its unique look and how it drove. Not always easy to debut a new design.
But Mitsubishi listened very carefully. They took that feedback seriously. Then, they made big improvements. In 2020, they updated the whole model. They made the design better. Performance also got a boost. The brand worked hard on fuel efficiency too. That is super important today. For example, the Eclipse Cross now gets good mileage. It’s rated at 26 mpg in the city. On the highway, it reaches 29 mpg. That makes it competitive. It holds its own against many rivals. This commitment to improving is truly encouraging. Honestly, it shows they care about their customers.
What’s Next for the Eclipse Cross
Looking ahead, the Eclipse Cross will keep changing. It needs to meet what buyers want. The demand for SUVs keeps growing. Manufacturers must keep creating new things. I am excited to see what Mitsubishi plans next. As more people care about the planet, I think this could happen. We might see hybrid models. Or even electric versions of the Eclipse Cross. That would be quite a sight!
Also, technology will play a huge part. Cars are getting smarter. They are more connected than ever. So, we can expect Mitsubishi to invest more. They will add advanced safety systems. Better entertainment features are surely coming too. The future looks bright for car tech. I am happy to witness this shift.
Counterarguments and Other Views
Some critics will always have different opinions. They argue the Eclipse Cross is well-priced. But it doesn’t have the same reputation. It lacks the brand prestige of Honda or Toyota. Those names have been around longer. Critics also point out the smaller cargo space. It’s often smaller than rivals like the CR-V or RAV4. This can be a real concern for some buyers. For large families or people hauling gear often, this might be a deal-breaker.
However, it’s vital to remember its purpose. The Eclipse Cross serves a unique group of buyers. These are people looking for style. They want good tech features. And they want it all at an affordable price. It’s not trying to be the biggest or most famous. Its about smart design and value. That’s its strength. So, while it may not fit everyone, for many, it’s a perfect fit.
Tips for Potential Buyers
So, if you’re thinking about the Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross, here’s some advice. Take these steps. They can help you make a good decision.
Take a Test Drive: Always try out different trims. See which one fits your life best. Feel the steering. Check the seats.
List Your Needs: Think about what features matter most. Do you need advanced safety tech? Is a big infotainment screen essential? Make a list.
Look for Deals: Always check for manufacturer incentives. Ask about special financing options. These can make your purchase sweeter.
Check Resale Value: Consider how well it holds its value. This impacts your total ownership cost. The Eclipse Cross often does well here.
Read Reviews: Look for different perspectives from owners and experts. Online forums and review sites can offer valuable insights.
Frequently Asked Questions
How well does the Eclipse Cross use fuel?
The Eclipse Cross gets good mileage. It is rated at 26 miles per gallon in the city. It gets 29 miles per gallon on the highway. This is a competitive number for its type.
What safety features are in the base model?
The ES base trim has key safety items. It includes a rearview camera. It lacks advanced systems though. Things like adaptive cruise control are on higher trims.
Is the Eclipse Cross warranty good?
Yes, its really good. The Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross comes with a 10-year warranty. It covers 100,000 miles for the powertrain. It’s truly one of the best warranties out there. It offers fantastic peace of mind.
Does it have all-wheel drive?
Yes, Mitsubishi’s Super All-Wheel Control (S-AWC) is available. Many trims offer it. It helps with tricky road conditions. It provides better grip in bad weather.
How big is the cargo space?
The Eclipse Cross has 23.4 cubic feet behind the rear seats. It can expand to 50.1 cubic feet with seats folded. It’s okay for a compact SUV. Some rivals offer more.
What kind of engine does it have?
It uses a 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine. It provides enough power for daily driving. It’s pretty efficient too. It offers a smooth ride.
Are there different wheel options?
Yes, different trims have varied wheel designs. They come in different sizes, typically 16 or 18 inches. This adds to the style. You can customize the look.
Can I connect my smartphone?
Yes, most trims have Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. These connect your phone easily. It’s great for navigation and music. Staying connected is simple.
Is it comfortable for long drives?
Many drivers find the seats supportive. The ride is generally smooth. It handles longer trips well enough. Passengers usually feel comfortable.
What colors are available?
Mitsubishi offers a range of colors. You can pick from classic tones to brighter options. It lets you personalize your SUV. There’s something for everyone.
How easy is it to park?
Its compact size makes parking simple. The rearview camera also helps a lot. It’s a good city car. Fitting into tight spots is easy.
Are there any hybrid versions?
Currently, no hybrid Eclipse Cross is offered. But future models might include them. Demand for greener cars is growing. Mitsubishi might adapt soon.
Does it have a good turning radius?
Yes, its compact design helps here. It makes U-turns and tight maneuvers easier. It’s agile in urban areas.
What about maintenance costs?
Mitsubishi vehicles generally have reasonable maintenance costs. The robust warranty also helps. It saves money in the long run.
Is the infotainment system easy to use?
Yes, the touchscreen is intuitive. It’s straightforward to navigate menus. Connecting devices is simple too. It’s not overly complicated.
Conclusion
In this busy market, the Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross really stands out. It’s known for its price. Its features are good. And that warranty is tough to beat. I am happy to see a carmaker truly commit to improving. They listen to what customers say. As car buyers, we should feel great about our choices.
The Eclipse Cross offers a compelling blend of features and good pricing. It’s a strong option for anyone wanting a compact SUV. So, as you weigh your choices, I encourage you to think. Don’t just consider the price tag. Think about what you truly value in a vehicle. Is it the tech? The warranty? Or perhaps the brand name? Understanding these details helps you choose wisely. You’ll make the best decision for your needs.
