Why the 2024 Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross for Sale is a Game Changer for Compact SUVs

Looking for a stylish and affordable SUV? Well, the 2024 Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross might just be the car you've been searching for. With a refreshed design and some new features, this compact SUV is an excellent option for both city drivers and weekend adventurers.

However, like any vehicle, it’s essential to weigh the pros and cons before making a purchase. In this article, we'll dive deep into the 2024 Eclipse Cross, discussing its strengths, potential drawbacks, and why it's a compelling option in the competitive SUV market. Plus, we’ll share some personal thoughts from car enthusiast Alex Collantes on how this model stacks up against the competition.

Performance and Engine Specs of the 2024 Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross

Under the Hood

The 2024 Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross is powered by a 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, producing 152 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque. The engine is paired with a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT). While this setup may not deliver spine-tingling power, it offers enough punch for most daily driving needs.

With the CVT, the engine operates smoothly without the abrupt shifts found in some traditional automatic transmissions. However, some drivers might feel that the CVT doesn’t offer the same level of engagement as a manual or a traditional automatic. It’s more of a "set it and forget it" transmission, which is fine for those who prioritize comfort over spirited driving.

Fuel Efficiency

When it comes to fuel efficiency, the Eclipse Cross holds its own. The front-wheel-drive version delivers an EPA-estimated 26 mpg in the city and 29 mpg on the highway. Meanwhile, opting for the all-wheel-drive model drops those numbers slightly to 25 city / 28 highway mpg. Not the best in its class but certainly not the worst.

All-Wheel-Drive for the Adventurous

For drivers who live in regions with harsh winters or enjoy occasional off-roading, the available Super All-Wheel Control (S-AWC) is a significant plus. This system enhances stability and traction in various road conditions, making the Eclipse Cross more versatile than your typical front-wheel-drive-only SUVs.

Exterior Design and Styling

A Fresh Look for 2024

One thing Mitsubishi has always excelled at is design, and the 2024 Eclipse Cross is no exception. With a sleeker front grille, sharp LED headlights, and bold lines running down the side, the Eclipse Cross looks more aggressive and sporty compared to earlier models. Its redesigned rear end—which was a point of contention in earlier versions—now sports a more traditional look, and that's something that many drivers will appreciate.

According to Alex Collantes, a long-time Mitsubishi fan, “The 2024 redesign finally gets rid of that awkward split-window rear design. It’s more in line with what you’d expect from an SUV, and that’s a good thing.”

Color Options

Mitsubishi offers several eye-catching color options for the 2024 Eclipse Cross, including Red Diamond, Octane Blue Metallic, and Alloy Silver Metallic. These colors add a vibrant touch to the vehicle’s modern design, and they’re sure to turn heads as you cruise around town.

Interior and Comfort

Cabin Quality and Space

The 2024 Eclipse Cross comes with a relatively spacious and comfortable interior. The seats are well-padded, offering good support during long trips. While cloth upholstery comes standard, higher trims offer leather seating for a more upscale experience.

One area where the Eclipse Cross does fall short is the quality of materials used in the cabin. While the design is modern and functional, some hard plastics on the dashboard and doors may remind you that this is still a budget-friendly vehicle. If you’re used to more premium materials, this could be a slight disappointment.

Alex Collantes noted, “The interior is functional, no doubt, but for anyone coming from a luxury brand or even a top-tier Toyota or Honda, it might feel a bit lacking in refinement.”

Infotainment System

Mitsubishi has made some improvements to the Eclipse Cross’s infotainment system. The base models come with a 7-inch touchscreen but upgrading to higher trims bumps that to 8 inches, which is a bit more competitive in this segment. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto come standard, allowing seamless smartphone integration.

However, the system can be a bit slow at times and isn’t as intuitive as those found in rivals like the Honda CR-V or Mazda CX-5. If tech is a priority for you, you might want to test the system out during your test drive to see if it meets your expectations.

Cargo Space

For a compact SUV, the Eclipse Cross offers a decent amount of cargo space. With the rear seats up, you get 23.4 cubic feet of space, which expands to 50.1 cubic feet when you fold the seats down. While it’s not the most spacious in its class (the Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV4 offer more room), it should be enough for most families or individuals who don’t frequently carry oversized loads.

Safety Features and Ratings

Standard and Available Safety Features

Mitsubishi has packed the 2024 Eclipse Cross with an array of standard and optional safety features. Even the base model comes equipped with forward-collision warning with automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, and automatic high beams. For additional peace of mind, buyers can opt for features like blind-spot monitoring and adaptive cruise control in higher trims.

Crash Test Ratings

While crash test ratings for the 2024 model are still pending as of this writing, the 2023 Eclipse Cross received four out of five stars from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) also gave the vehicle "Good" ratings in most categories, though it fell short of earning a Top Safety Pick designation due to some minor weaknesses in specific tests.

Trims and Pricing

The 2024 Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross is available in four trim levels: ES, LE, SE, and SEL. Each trim offers a different balance of features and pricing, ensuring there's something for almost everyone.

1. ES (Base Trim): Priced at around $25,000, the ES trim offers essential features like cloth upholstery, the smaller touchscreen, and basic driver assistance features. It’s a great choice for budget-conscious buyers.
2. LE: For about $26,500, the LE trim adds a more substantial infotainment system, nicer interior touches, and alloy wheels.
3. SE: Starting at around $28,000, the SE trim includes heated front seats, a more advanced sound system, and additional safety features.
4. SEL: The top-tier trim, priced at $30,000, includes leather upholstery, a power liftgate, and other luxury touches.

Pro Tip: Alex Collantes suggests going for the SE trim if you're looking for the best balance of features and price. "The SE gives you all the bells and whistles you’d want without breaking the bank," says Alex.

Potential Drawbacks of the 2024 Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross

While the 2024 Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross has plenty going for it, there are some areas where it lags behind its competitors. Being aware of these drawbacks can help you make a more informed decision.

• Engine Performance: The 1.5-liter engine is fine for daily driving but feels underpowered when pushed hard, especially on the highway. Some drivers might crave more horsepower, and if that's you, you may find the Eclipse Cross lacking in excitement.

• CVT Transmission: The CVT is smooth but can feel disconnected for those used to the more engaging experience of a traditional automatic or manual transmission.

• Interior Materials: While the design is modern, the cabin's materials—especially the hard plastics—feel a bit cheap compared to some rivals.

• Cargo Space: The Eclipse Cross doesn’t offer as much cargo room as some of its competitors like the Honda CR-V or Toyota RAV4. If storage space is a priority, you might want to consider other options.

Final Thoughts: Is the 2024 Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross Worth Buying?

If you’re looking for a stylish, affordable, and fuel-efficient compact SUV, the 2024 Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross is a solid choice. It’s ideal for those who want a vehicle that’s great for commuting, offers all-wheel drive for versatility, and doesn’t break the bank when it comes to fuel costs.

However, if you need more horsepower or premium cabin materials, you might want to explore other options in the compact SUV segment. But for those who can live with its quirks, the Eclipse Cross is a vehicle that delivers a lot of value at a reasonable price point.

As Alex Collantes puts it, “The Eclipse Cross isn’t perfect, but for its price, it’s a great deal. It’s not trying to be a luxury SUV; it’s built for everyday people who need a reliable and good-looking car. And in that sense, it succeeds.”

If you’re in the market for a compact SUV, it’s worth taking the 2024 Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross for a test drive. Compare it with other vehicles in its class, and see if it checks off all the boxes for your needs.