2025 Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross: Quite Simply Shunned

The Subaru Crosstrek, Toyota Corolla Cross and Hyundai Kona are the stars of the subcompact SUV segment. These best-selling models can be purchased with confidence thanks to their versatility, reliability and available all-wheel drive system. Always in their shadow is the Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross, an oft-neglected competitor that happens to boast some of the aforementioned attributes.

There seems to be a number of things standing in its way. For starters, the name was a questionable choice—it has nothing to do with the Japanese brand's late sporty coupe. More importantly, the Eclipse Cross has to coexist with the cheaper albeit slightly smaller Mitsubishi RVR, which is somehow enjoying more success in Canada despite being a decade and a half old.

• Also: Mitsubishi Axes Mirage, Confirms Other Changes for 2025
• Also: 2022 Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross: More Relevant Yet Not Convincing Enough

In other words, the Eclipse Cross looks good on paper and has many of the features people look for, yet it fails to make a big enough statement when you consider the other vehicles it’s going up against.

Sharp Looks, But The Interior’s Getting Old

This little SUV looks kind of sharp with distinctive lines, a prominent front grille, slim headlight clusters and three-pointed taillights. Remember, the Eclipse Cross’ design was refreshed three years ago. Moving inside, the cabin feels relatively dated. While fit and finish are beyond reproach, a number of controls and parts of the dashboard are in need of revisions and updates.  

In particular, the infotainment touchscreen doesn’t belong in a 2025 model. It may prove easy to use, but the graphics and menus are from another time. The physical controls are ergonomic. On the other hand, the stereo is a letdown. 

Although the Eclipse Cross is comfortable, the seats could offer a bit more lateral support. The somewhat elevated driving position inspires confidence on the road. The cabin can easily accommodate four adults and the trunk, while spacious enough, ranks below the segment’s average. As for towing, the Eclipse Cross is good enough for 1,500 lbs with five people on board or 2,000 lbs with only two.

All-Wheel Drive is Standard… and Excellent

We’ve said it a few times before and we’ll say it again: this Mitsubishi SUV is not very inspiring to drive. It tends to be affected by crosswinds and feels rather stiff on poorly maintained roads. At the same time, handling is not a problem. It’s actually pretty good and safe overall.

Bad weather, particularly winter, is where the Eclipse Cross really shines. Mitsubishi’s acclaimed Super All-Wheel Control (S-AWC) all-wheel drive system can effectively deal with severe conditions such as extreme cold, blizzards and storms. It monitors tire grip, body movements and steering to keep the vehicle going where it needs to be. Mark our words: traction is never a problem. By the way, the S-AWC system comes with a choice of three drive modes including Normal, Snow and Gravel.

The Eclipse Cross is also skilled in the art of drifting, something that likely comes from the Japanese brand’s rally-racing heritage. Just turn stability control off, engage Snow mode and find a deserted lot or country road to have a little fun. The giant paddle shifters on the steering wheel are nice to play with, too, simulating gear shifts with the continuously variable transmission. 

Unlike the naturally aspirated RVR, the Eclipse Cross is powered by a turbocharged 1.5-litre four-cylinder engine. The 152 horses are decent for everyday driving but sound rather grumpy at times. Maximum torque of 184 lb-ft is accessible from 2,000-3,500 rpm, which is a fairly tight rev range. Luckily, the CVT knows how to make good use of it.

As for fuel consumption, our test drive netted 9 L/100 km, putting the Eclipse Cross among the least efficient SUVs in its class. Alas, Mitsubishi has no plans to add a hybrid variant like some competitors offer (Corolla Cross, Kia Niro and pretty soon the Crosstrek, as well).

Highly Dependable With a Fantastic Warranty

Mitsubishi has other cards up its sleeve, starting with an exceptional warranty. Basic coverage extends to 5 years/100,000 km, while powertrain coverage extends to 10 years/160,000 km. What's more, the Eclipse Cross has proven to be highly dependable so far. Too bad that its resale value isn't up to scratch.

Prices remain unchanged from last year. The base ES model starts at $29,398 (MSRP), the SE at $32,898 and the SEL at $35,698. Returning for 2025, the Noir model builds on the SEL and retails for $37,998. It features numerous black accents including the grille, lower bumpers, 18-inch wheels, mirror caps and lettering. The interior gets a distinctive steering wheel, black and silver trim, aluminum pedals and an eight-speaker Mitsubishi audio system. At the top of the range is the GT (as tested), which is priced from $38,498. If you ask us, that’s paying a bit too much for an Eclipse Cross.

Now, where does the brand go from here? Under the “Momentum 2030” business plan unveiled in May 2024, Mitsubishi is working on a renewed, expanded and electrified product lineup highlighted by its first fully electric vehicle since the departure of the tiny i-MiEV. Hopefully the plan also includes an improved, next-generation Eclipse Cross or at the very least the gas-electric variant it badly needs.