The 2026 Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross:

 The 2026 Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross:

               The 2026 Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross continues to offer a balanced mix of style, practicality, and technology. As a compact crossover, it blends a modern design with dependable performance and all-wheel-drive capability, all at a reasonable price point. If this model is on your radar, here’s a closer look at what it offers.

What’s New for 2026?

              The 2026 Eclipse Cross largely carries over its existing design and platform, so there aren’t major changes this year. However, a few updates stand out:

→A new LE trim joins the lineup, positioned between the base ES and mid-level SE models.

→The “Eclipse Cross” hood badging is now standard on SEL and SEL Touring trims.

→Embedded navigation has been removed from certain trims, pushing more drivers to rely on smartphone connectivity.

Powertrain & Performance:

                 All versions of the 2026 Eclipse Cross come equipped with a 1.5-liter turbocharged inline-four engine, producing around 152 horsepower and 184 lb-ft (≈250 Nm) of torque.

A CVT (continuously variable transmission) with a Sport Mode is standard, and all-wheel drive (AWD)—or Mitsubishi’s S-AWC system, depending on the market—is included across the range.

Fuel Economy & Efficiency:

Fuel economy is fair for the class, with an estimated 25–28 mpg depending on trim and conditions.

Cargo space is also practical: you get about 50.1 cubic feet of volume with the rear seats folded, making it versatile for everyday use.

Trim Levels & Features:

The Eclipse Cross lineup includes several trims: ES, LE, SE, Black Edition, and SEL (plus Ralliart in select regions). Each step up adds more comfort, convenience, and style.

Trim Key Features:

ES (Base) →Standard AWD, turbo engine, 7-inch infotainment display, and essential safety tech like forward collision mitigation and blind spot warning.

LE →Heated front seats, keyless entry, and upgraded wheels and interior comfort features.

SE →Power driver’s seat, enhanced audio, more USB ports, and improved interior materials.

Black Edition →Unique blacked-out styling elements and premium interior touches.

SEL→ Top-tier features including a power liftgate, heated rear seats, upgraded sound system, and expanded driver-assist options.

Interior & Comfort:

        

             The Eclipse Cross seats five comfortably. Rear legroom is good, and higher trims offer additional seat adjustability.

•Interior materials have been improved, with more refined surfaces and modernized design elements.

•Every model supports Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, though screen size and audio quality vary by trim. Features such as heated front seats, heated mirrors, a power tailgate, and keyless entry add to convenience in upper trims.

Safety & Driver Assistance:

                 Mitsubishi equips the 2026 Eclipse Cross with a strong set of standard safety features, including Forward Collision Mitigation, Blind Spot Warning, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, and Lane Departure Warning.

AWD enhances traction and stability in challenging conditions.

Higher trims may include additional technologies such as adaptive cruise control and automatic high beams.

Pros & Cons:

Strengths:

Standard AWD is a notable advantage in this class.

Generous cargo capacity and flexible rear-seat folding.

Good overall value when equipped with higher-trim features.

Things to Consider:

The 1.5L engine offers adequate power but isn’t particularly sporty.

Fuel economy is mid-range; front-wheel-drive competitors perform better.

Built-in navigation is no longer available on some trims, which may be a drawback for drivers who prefer onboard maps.

EV Variant (Europe & Beyond):

Mitsubishi is also expanding the lineup with a fully electric Eclipse Cross EV, available in select international markets.

Key highlights include:

→Range: Up to 600 km (WLTP) for the long-range 87 kWh version.

→Battery options: A smaller 60 kWh variant will also be offered.

→Charging: AC charging up to 22 kW and DC fast charging up to 150 kW.

→Interior: Premium finishes, larger digital displays, ambient lighting, and available electrochromic panoramic roofs.

Is It a Smart Buy?

           The 2026 Eclipse Cross is a solid choice for drivers who prioritize:

•Reliable AWD performance

•Practical interior and cargo space

•A strong list of comfort and tech features

•Everyday comfort rather than sporty performance

It’s especially appealing in areas with variable weather or rougher road conditions.