Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross Sole Generation (2018-present)
1.5L turbo I4 (152 hp). FWD or S-AWC AWD. CVT only. Split-glass tailgate pre-2022 facelift.
GK platform — Mitsubishi-developed compact crossover architecture. Built at Mitsubishi Okazaki plant, Japan. 1.5L MIVEC turbocharged direct-injection I4 producing 152 hp / 184 lb-ft, paired with CVT (continuously variable transmission, no manual ever offered). FWD or Super All-Wheel Control (S-AWC) AWD with active yaw control distributing torque to the wheels with most grip. Three drive modes: Auto, Snow, Gravel (S-AWC AWD only). Pre-2022 distinctive features: split-glass tailgate with horizontal beam dividing the rear window into upper/lower glass panels (design heritage from the concept car), aggressive 'Dynamic Shield' front fascia. 2022 mid-cycle refresh was substantial: body lengthened 5.5 inches (overall 179 inches), single-piece conventional rear window replacing split-glass design, refreshed front fascia with redesigned headlights and grille, redesigned interior with larger 8-inch infotainment optional, refreshed dashboard and trim. Eclipse Cross PHEV launched 2021 globally (Europe, Australia, Japan) but never offered for the US market — uses Outlander PHEV's 2.4L Atkinson + electric motor system in shorter-wheelbase package. Towing capacity 1,500 lb. Trims (current): ES, LE, SE, SEL. Standard equipment includes Bluetooth, multi-view camera, automatic climate control, 7- or 8-inch infotainment with Apple CarPlay / Android Auto. Optional: power liftgate (2022+), heated seats, head-up display, sunroof, Mitsubishi Connect telematics. The Eclipse Cross has had modest US sales throughout — outsold by both the smaller Outlander Sport and the larger Outlander.
Strengths
- Super All-Wheel Control (S-AWC) optional
- 10-yr/100k powertrain warranty
- Distinctive styling (split-glass tailgate pre-2022)
- 1.5L turbo with reasonable mid-range torque
- Lower used-market pricing vs Honda HR-V / Mazda CX-30
- Mitsubishi Connect telematics
Weaknesses
- Single 1.5L engine option (no power upgrade)
- CVT only (no manual or traditional auto)
- Cabin tech behind Honda CR-V / RAV4
- Resale value below segment leaders
- Mitsubishi dealer network thin in US markets
- PHEV variant not offered in US (lost opportunity)
- Eclipse coupe heritage badly applied (controversial)
Notable tech
- 1.5L MIVEC turbocharged I4 (152 hp)
- Super All-Wheel Control (S-AWC) with active yaw
- Split-glass tailgate (2018-2021)
- Three drive modes (Auto / Snow / Gravel)
- Mitsubishi Connect telematics
- Multi-view camera system
Common issues
- CVT shudder / failure (well-documented)
- Power tailgate motor failures (post-2022)
- Direct-injection carbon build-up (1.5L turbo)
- Infotainment occasional freezes
- Brake-system EBD module failures
Used-market budget
$22,000
2018-2021 split-glass cars $15-22k. 2022+ post-facelift cars $19-32k. SEL trim with all options commands modest premium. Documented CVT service history is critical.
