While it is not as bold in its new styling as some of its rivals, the 2022 Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross manages to be eye-catching nonetheless. Unfortunately, its engine - a turbocharged 1.5-L 4-cylinder engine - is not as impressive. It gives a sluggish performance not befitting of its segment. The Eclipse Cross has some nice new standard technology, but you might feel like you are left wanting for more. Is the Eclipse Cross a good fit for you? Let's look at what is new for 2022, the available style and trims, how it drives, and what to expect in terms of fuel economy.
What's New For 2022?
2022 brings a full overhaul for the new generation of the Eclipse Cross. This means you get revised front and rear fascia that look more contemporary. Say good-bye to the weird split-rear window design from the previous generation; there is a new and improved liftgate in the back. Inside, you get more standard tech features, including an 8-inch touchscreen display and smartphone app integration via Android Auto and Apple CarPlay on the LE trim level and above. The old touchpad controller is gone, thank goodness. Also, there is now a gray leather upholstery option available.
Available Styles
The Eclipse Cross is only available as a crossover SUV. There are no hybrid options, just a gas-powered engine.
Available Trims
The Eclipse Cross comes in your choice of four trim levels: the ES, LE, SE, and SEL. They are all powered by the same 1.5-L turbocharged 4-cylinder engine that generates 152 hp. A continuously variable automatic transmission (better known by its acronym, CVT) is paired with this engine. You get front-wheel drive as the standard drivetrain while all-wheel drive is available as an option on the higher trim levels.
The ES starts you off with a bundle of driver aids, such as forward collision warning and lane departure warning. Hill start assist, active stability control, 16-inch wheels done in two-tone alloy, LED taillights, and LED daytime running lights all come equipped. This trim has a 7-inch display, power windows with auto-up/down on the driver's window, a tilt and telescoping steering wheel, and HD Radio with the 4-speaker sound system.
The LE upgrades you to the new 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system and smartphone app integration. It also adds LED fog lights, 18-inch alloy wheels that are painted black, windshield wipers that sense rain, heated front seats, a steering wheel that is wrapped in leather, and automatic high beams.
Going up to the SE gives you LED headlights and blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert and lane changing assist. The driver's seat becomes 8-way power adjustable, and Mitsubishi Connect gives you Remote and Safe Guard services as part of a 24-month-long trial subscription with a download of the mobile app.
Stepping it all the way up to the SEL trim gives you a black headliner and pillars, paddle shifters, and 8-way power adjustability on the front passenger's seat. Add to that a multi-view camera, heated steering wheel, and leather-appointed seating surfaces for a few extra touches of luxury.
Driving Impressions
Acceleration is not the Eclipse Cross's strong point. It takes about 8.6 seconds for the vehicle to get from 0 to 60 mph. With no upgrades having been made to the powertrain, it will be hard to expect anything spunky this year. The brakes feel strong enough, and the suspension is definitely tuned for providing a comfortable ride quality. You will encounter a fair amount of body roll while taking turns at higher speeds, but the vehicle still feels planted enough. Small cracks will send minor vibrations up through the seats. Steering feels on-point and is lightweight enough, building bulk properly as you go.
Fuel Economy
The 2022 Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross has a fuel economy that is nothing to marvel at, but it also is not terrible. It gets an EPA estimate of 27 mpg combined on the FWD-equipped base ES trim level (with 26 mpg in the city and 29 mpg on the highway). Real-world tests have shown that the SEL with AWD equipped can get about 26 mpg on the highway. This leads us to believe that the ES should be able to at least match its estimate. Does it blow away the competition? No. But it also does not fall below segment average.
The 2022 Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross sees a lot of nice additions for the new generation, especially the changes made to the infotainment and safety features. However, the base engine needed some alterations. A higher-powered option for the higher trim levels would be nice to see, especially if it could balance power with fuel efficiency.
Formula for Calculating Dealer Cost:
Total Dealer Cost - Rebate and Incentive + Taxes / Licensing Fees = True Dealer Cost. (You can get rebates and incentives here.)
Note: All Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross MSRP, invoice and dealer cost dollar figures above are approximate amounts. Prices are subject to change without notice.
A note about rebates: Most rebates are subtracted from the "on the road" figure. In most cases, you can have the rebate if you are arranging your own financing or you are paying cash. If you decide to use the manufacturer’s low interest financing, you do not usually get the rebate. Ask your dealer for details.
