Mitsubishi has a plan to break out of its current austerity mode, during which the brand’s occasional sparks of edgy design and performance-oriented engineering have remained in a deep slumber. The 2018 Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross is the first fruit of that effort, and it’s intended to signal a course correction toward a more compelling lineup.
Pros Distinctive design, better interior than the Outlander Sport, lots of tech for the money.
Cons Far from quick, CVT kills driving enjoyment.
The 2018 Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross is a compact crossover that aims to bring high-class looks to a mass-market buyer. It works, but not without some compromise.
Pros Compelling value Competent engine Sharp steering Handsome crossover looks
Cons Bulky infotainment setup Lackluster interior Confused exterior details Advanced safety reserved for top-tier models
The Eclipse Cross is an all-new model for 2018.The SE S-AWC is the trim level that makes the most sense to us. It packs a good amount of technology and active safety features, plus a handful of minor but useful interior upgrades such as illuminated vanity mirrors and a leather-wrapped steering wheel.
PROS Provides plenty of standard features Turbocharged engine delivers peppy performance Easy-to-use infotainment system
CONS Top trim-level pricing is similar to better driving compact SUVs Not much fun to drive around turns Ride quality is a bit rough
The 2019 Mitsubishi Outlander is a solid option outside of the usual crossover SUV choices but is often forgotten for a reason.
Pros Good base features Large touchscreen standard Available all-wheel drive across the range Updated styling for 2019
Cons Cheap interior feel Overworked inline-4 Thirsty, underpowered V-6 Tight third row Expensive active safety tech
Refreshed styling including new headlights.Steering and suspension tweaks for better ride comfort and handling.New rear-seat climate control vents.The 2019 Mitsubishi Outlander is one of the least expensive SUVs you can buy with a third-row seat.
Pros Generous list of standard features Standard three-row seating
Cons Slow, noisy acceleration with the base four-cylinder Thirsty V6 is available only on the top-of-the-line GT Third-row seat is pretty small Limited Mitsubishi dealer network
For 2019, the Outlander receives a host of changes that include revised front-end styling and standard 18-inch wheels. Every model also has more supportive and comfortable front seats, upgraded interior trim, newly illuminated window controls, rear-seat climate-control vents, and an electric parking brake. Likewise, all gasoline-powered models have revised suspension and steering that Mitsubishi says has enhanced the handling and ride quality.
Pros Affordable three-row transportation, advanced plug-in hybrid powertrain, quiet and relaxed ride.
Cons Dull to drive, abysmal infotainment system, contentious front-end styling.