Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross review

Mitsubishi might not spring to mind as immediately as Land Rover or Jeep when you think about SUVs, but the japanese brand actually beat both of those brands to the punch when it built its first 4x4 back in 1936, and has enjoyed a big market presence ever since.

With models like the Shogun Sport and Outlander on its CV, Mitsubishi certainly has experience under its belt. Today, the Eclipse Cross is intended to bring the brand’s expertise to the family SUV market, where it competes directly with the Skoda Karoq, Peugeot 3008 and Nissan Qashqai, as well as the Seat Ateca, Kia Sportage and Renault Kadjar – all of which are deservedly popular.

Car buffs may remember the ‘Eclipse’ part of its name appearing on a sporty hatchback that never made it to the UK, but which appeared prominently in a movie full of fast cars being driven furiously. But while the Eclipse Cross isn’t at all sporty, it eschews the boxiness of some rival SUVs in favour of a sleeker styling – think BMW X4 at a much lower price and you’re on the right lines.

Power comes from a 1.5-litre turbocharged petrol engine which is connected to the front wheels via a manual gearbox. A CVT automatic gearbox is optional and is mandatory if you want if you want four-wheel drive – the latter being more geared towards adding traction on slippery roads than any serious off-roading.

Of course, the Eclipse Cross has no shortage of talented rivals. But could the Mitsubishi’s blend of style and substance be what you’re looking for?

Read on for our in-depth review; we’ll tell you how the Eclipse Cross drives, how practical it is and how much it costs to run. And, if it – or any of its rivals – tickles your fancy, our New Car Buying page is where you should head, for a great deal with no need to haggle.