Shining Bright or Dimming Out? 2024 Eclipse Cross In-Depth Review

Alright, gather ‘round as we’re about to dig into Mitsubishi’s 2024 Eclipse Cross. Now, if the name “Eclipse” takes you back to street racing fantasies of the late ‘90s, hold up. This isn’t the tuner’s dream coupe anymore…it’s a compact SUV aimed at a very different crowd. But does it live up to its namesake, or is it just riding on nostalgia? Join us as we try to find out.

What’s New for 2024?

Mitsubishi has made some tweaks here and there to the Eclipse Cross for 2024, focusing on keeping it competitive in the ever-crowded compact SUV market. While it’s not a complete overhaul, it’s enough to make you take a second look—especially if you’re shopping for something practical with a touch of flair.

Some Key Specs & Features:

• Engine: 1.5L turbocharged 4-cylinder, making 152 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque.
• Transmission: CVT
• Drivetrain: FWD standard; AWD optional.
• Fuel Economy: Up to 26 MPG city / 29 MPG highway.
• Towing Capacity: 1,500 lbs.
• Infotainment: Standard 8-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
• Safety Features: Forward collision mitigation, lane departure warning, and adaptive cruise control.

Trims & Options

The 2024 Eclipse Cross comes in four trims, with each offering a little something for everyone:

1. ES (Base Trim)

   • 16-inch alloy wheels
   • Cloth upholstery
   • Standard safety suite

2. LE (Value-Oriented)

   • 18-inch black alloy wheels
   • Heated front seats
   • Keyless entry with push-button start

3. SE (Mid-Tier)

   • Leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob
   • Power driver’s seat
   • Dual-zone climate control

4. SEL (Top-Dog)

   • Leather upholstery
   • Power liftgate
   • Head-up display

Optional packages like the Panoramic Sunroof Package and Touring Package add features like a sunroof, premium audio system, and extra safety tech.

The Driving Impressions

Let’s get real: The Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross isn’t trying to blow your socks off with performance. The 1.5L turbocharged four banger gets the job done for daily commuting and weekend errands, but don’t expect to leave anyone in the dust at a green light. The CVT, while smooth, might feel a little uninspired for those of us who love the roar of a traditional automatic or manual gearbox.

That said, the Eclipse Cross shines in comfort and practicality. The suspension is tuned for a cushy ride, soaking up potholes like a champ. And while the steering isn’t exactly razor-sharp, it’s light and easy to maneuver—perfect for city driving and tight parking spots.

Off-road? Well, it’s no Jeep Wrangler, but the available Super All-Wheel Control (S-AWC for short) system gives it a surprising amount of grip on dirt roads or snowy driveways. If you’re tackling anything more rugged, though, you might want to look elsewhere.

The Competition

The compact SUV market is like a crowded buffet in that there’s something for everyone. Even though the Eclipse Cross stands out with some unique attributes of its own, it still faces some stiff competition that many compact SUV buyers are sure to cross shop. Here are a few challengers to consider:

1. Honda CR-V

   • Strengths: Spacious interior, excellent fuel economy, and Honda’s legendary reliability.
   • Why it’s a threat: It’s the safe, dependable choice.

2. Toyota RAV4

   • Strengths: Rugged styling, hybrid option, and a reputation for durability.
   • Why it’s a threat: The RAV4’s versatility is hard to beat.

3. Mazda CX-5

   • Strengths: Sharp handling, upscale interior, and a powerful turbocharged engine option.
   • Why it’s a threat: It’s the fun-to-drive choice in this segment.

4. Hyundai Tucson

   • Strengths: Bold design, loads of tech, and an unbeatable warranty.
   • Why it’s a threat: It’s a lot of car for the money.

5. Kia Sportage

   • Strengths: Stylish, tech-packed, and offered in a hybrid version.
   • Why it’s a threat: Kia’s aggressive pricing and features are hard to ignore.

Pros & Cons of the 2024 Eclipse Cross

Some Pros:

• Affordable price point compared to rivals.
• Standard advanced safety features.
• Unique styling that stands out.
• Comfortable ride quality.

Some Cons:

• Mediocre engine performance.
• CVT may not appeal to driving enthusiasts.
• Smaller cargo space compared to competitors.

Our Final Thoughts

The 2024 Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross is like that friend who’s not the life of the party but always shows up on time and remembers your birthday. It’s dependable, practical, and offers just enough flair to keep things interesting. While it’s not the flashiest or most powerful option in the compact SUV segment, it’s still a solid choice for those who want comfort, safety, and especially affordability.

But hey, don’t just take my word for it. What do you think? Is the Eclipse Cross the compact SUV for you, or are you eyeing one of its rivals? Drop your thoughts in the comment section below as I’d love to hear your take. If you’ve driven one, let us know what you think about Mitsubishi’s latest compact SUV offering.