IT ONLY SEEMS LIKE YESTERDAY the new Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross was being revealed, but now it’s time for the latest version to take its place.
With the latest iteration of the Eclipse Cross, product designers and engineers have focused on improving both driver comfort and on-road handling.
“We listened to customers, and we are pleased to bring to market an elegant enhancement to the driving experience by bringing comfort, technology and driving dynamics for their next adventure,” said Minoru Uehara, Chief Product Specialist of MMC.
“The new Eclipse Cross builds on its core attributes of being a stylish, contemporary and fun to drive vehicle,” said Tony Dorrington, MMAL’s product strategist responsible for the local specification of the new Eclipse Cross. “It’s packed with technology to ensure our customers enjoy their daily city commute, while also being capable enough to take them on their next weekend adventure. The new Aspire model hits the sweet spot of offering even more technology at a great price point.”
Under the design concept of “Daring Grace”, designers have extended the front and rear overhangs. The front end adopts an evolved Dynamic Shield design concept, including new headlamps and LED daytime running lamps. The restyled rear creates a more sleek and elegant appearance, while also expressing the strength and toughness of an SUV. Combined with new 18-inch alloy wheels, the Eclipse Cross’ on-road presence is even more sophisticated.
The redesign has increased luggage room to 405 litres, a significant and usable increase from the previous model, despite an increase of only 140mm in overall vehicle length. Overall aerodynamic performance has been retained through the reshaping of the front and rear of the vehicle.
Boosted road performance is made possible by an electronically controlled 4WD system in combination with Mitsubishi’s Super-All Wheel Control (S-AWC) system. S-AWC offers integrated control of Active Stability Control (ASC), Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS) and Active Yaw Control (AYC) to regulate braking force and torque. The integrated control of these systems with finely tuned rear suspension by adopting the rigidly connected rear suspension crossmember produces vehicle behaviour true to the driver’s intent, and delivers ample manoeuvrability.
For drivers’ peace of mind, the new Eclipse Cross employs driver assistance technologies such as Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC), Forward Collision Mitigation system (FCM), Lane Departure Warning (LDW), Blind Spot Warning (BSW) with Lane Change Assist (LCA) and Automatic High Beam (AHB) in response to the acceleration, deceleration or stopping of the vehicles or objects ahead. It comes with a five-star ANCAP (Australasian New Car Assessment Program) rating, offering additional peace of mind for both private passengers and fleet buyers.
The new Eclipse Cross comes with an improved infotainment system that helps drivers operate safely on the road. A new 8-inch screen is now mounted in a position closer to the driver for improved touchscreen operability and visibility. MMC also teams up with what3words to deploy the industry’s first built-in offline navigation which is integrated in the TomTom satellite navigation system. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility comes standard on all models. A full-colour Head-Up Display (HUD) presents dashboard information, alerts and navigation signals that helps drivers acquire information safely and quickly.
Engineers also specially designed Mitsubishi Power Sound System to deliver a lush, fluid sound quality. The system comprises a high-powered 510 watt tuned amp and eight speakers that are arranged to fit to the shape of the Eclipse Cross.
The infotainment and sound system have been improved with a bigger display with embedded satellite navigation.
Colours (Australian specification)
White Diamond (new), Red Diamond, Lightning Blue (pearlescent), Sterling Silver Metallic, Titanium Grey Metallic, White (solid), Black (pearlescent).
Metallic and Pearlescent paint $740; Prestige paint $940
| Model | Plus on road costs |
| Eclipse Cross ES 2WD 1.5L CVT | $30,290 |
| Eclipse Cross LS 2WD 1.5L CVT | $32,590 |
| Eclipse Cross LS AWD 1.5L CVT | $35,090 |
| Eclipse Cross Aspire 2WD 1.5L CVT | $34,990 |
| Eclipse Cross Exceed 2WD 1.5L CVT | $38,290 |
| Eclipse Cross Exceed AWD 1.5L CVT | $40,790 |
Once we have tested and assessed the new Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross, seniordriveraus will bring you a comprehensive review, including everything the over-50 driver needs to know.