Hey guys! Are you thinking about getting a new SUV? Then you might have heard about the Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross Elite. It's a pretty popular choice, and for good reason. But before you jump in and buy one, let's take a closer look and see if it's really the right car for you. We're going to dive deep into its features, performance, and overall value to help you make an informed decision. So, buckle up and let's get started!

What's the Deal with the Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross Elite?

Okay, so first things first, what exactly is the Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross Elite? Well, it's the top-of-the-line trim level for the Eclipse Cross, which is a compact SUV that Mitsubishi offers. Think of it as the fully-loaded version with all the bells and whistles.

When you're considering a car like the Eclipse Cross Elite, you're probably looking for something that offers a blend of style, comfort, and technology. And that's exactly what Mitsubishi aims to deliver with this model. It's designed to stand out with its sleek lines and modern design, while also providing a comfortable and tech-filled interior for both the driver and passengers. But does it actually live up to the hype? Let's dig deeper into what makes this car tick.

The Eclipse Cross Elite is more than just a pretty face. It's equipped with a range of features that are designed to make your driving experience more enjoyable and convenient. We're talking about things like a panoramic sunroof, which lets in tons of natural light and gives the cabin a more open and airy feel. Then there's the premium audio system, which is a must-have for music lovers. And of course, it comes with a suite of advanced safety features to help keep you and your loved ones safe on the road. But we'll get into all the specifics later on.

Now, you might be wondering, who is this car really for? Well, the Eclipse Cross Elite is likely to appeal to a wide range of drivers. It's a great choice for small families who need a versatile and practical vehicle for everyday use. It's also a good option for young professionals who want a stylish and tech-savvy car that reflects their personality. And if you're someone who enjoys road trips and weekend adventures, the Eclipse Cross Elite has enough space and capability to handle those too. But ultimately, the best way to know if it's the right car for you is to really understand what it offers and how it performs in the real world.

Key Features of the Eclipse Cross Elite

Let's break down the key features of the Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross Elite. This is where we get into the nitty-gritty details that can really make or break a car. We'll be looking at everything from the engine and performance to the interior comforts and technology. So, grab a cup of coffee and let's get started!

Performance and Engine

Under the hood, the Eclipse Cross Elite typically comes with a 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine. Now, that might not sound like a powerhouse, but it actually delivers a decent amount of punch. We're talking around 152 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque. That's enough to get you moving around town and merge onto the highway without feeling like you're struggling. The engine is paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT), which is designed to maximize fuel efficiency. Some people love CVTs for their smooth and seamless acceleration, while others find them a bit less engaging than a traditional automatic transmission. It really comes down to personal preference.

One of the cool things about the Eclipse Cross Elite is that it comes standard with Mitsubishi's Super All-Wheel Control (S-AWC) system. This is an advanced all-wheel-drive system that helps improve traction and stability in a variety of driving conditions. Whether you're dealing with rain, snow, or just want some extra grip on curvy roads, S-AWC can make a noticeable difference. It's definitely a feature that sets the Eclipse Cross Elite apart from some of its competitors.

Interior Comfort and Technology

Moving inside, the Eclipse Cross Elite offers a pretty comfortable and well-equipped cabin. The seats are typically upholstered in leather, which gives them a premium feel. And there's plenty of space for both front and rear passengers, making it a good option for families or anyone who regularly carries passengers. The rear seats also recline, which is a nice touch for added comfort on long trips.

When it comes to technology, the Eclipse Cross Elite has a lot to offer. It usually comes with an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system that supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. This makes it easy to connect your smartphone and access your favorite apps, music, and navigation. You'll also find features like a Rockford Fosgate premium audio system, which delivers crisp and clear sound. And there's often a head-up display, which projects important information like your speed and navigation directions onto the windshield, so you can keep your eyes on the road.

Safety Features

Of course, safety is a top priority for most car buyers, and the Eclipse Cross Elite doesn't disappoint in this area. It typically comes standard with a suite of advanced safety features, including:

• Forward collision mitigation: This system can detect potential frontal collisions and automatically apply the brakes to help prevent or mitigate an accident.
• Lane departure warning: This feature alerts you if you start to drift out of your lane without signaling.
• Blind-spot monitoring: This system warns you if there's a vehicle in your blind spot, making it safer to change lanes.
• Rear cross-traffic alert: This feature helps you back out of parking spaces by alerting you to vehicles approaching from the side.

These safety features can give you extra peace of mind on the road and help you avoid accidents.

Driving Experience

Alright, let's talk about what it's actually like to drive the Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross Elite. We've covered the specs and features, but now we need to get into the real-world driving experience. How does it handle? How comfortable is it on long trips? Let's find out.

Handling and Performance

As we mentioned earlier, the Eclipse Cross Elite has a 1.5-liter turbocharged engine that puts out around 152 horsepower. While that might not sound like a ton of power, it's actually pretty well-suited to the car's size and weight. Acceleration is decent, and the engine feels responsive enough for everyday driving. The CVT transmission does a good job of keeping the engine in its optimal power range, but it can sometimes feel a bit drone-y under hard acceleration. If you're someone who prefers a more sporty and engaging driving experience, you might find the CVT a bit lacking.

One of the standout features of the Eclipse Cross Elite is its Super All-Wheel Control (S-AWC) system. This system really helps improve the car's handling and stability, especially in slippery conditions. It can distribute torque between the front and rear wheels, as well as between the left and right wheels, to maximize traction. This makes the Eclipse Cross Elite feel confident and composed on a variety of road surfaces. Whether you're driving in the rain, snow, or just on a winding road, S-AWC can give you added peace of mind.

Ride Comfort and Noise

In terms of ride comfort, the Eclipse Cross Elite does a pretty good job of absorbing bumps and road imperfections. The suspension is tuned to provide a comfortable ride without being too soft or floaty. The seats are also supportive and comfortable, even on longer drives. You shouldn't have too many complaints about ride quality in this car.

One area where the Eclipse Cross Elite could be improved is in terms of noise. Some drivers have noted that there can be a fair amount of road and wind noise that enters the cabin, especially at highway speeds. This can make it a bit challenging to have conversations or listen to music. It's not a deal-breaker, but it's something to be aware of if you're particularly sensitive to noise.

Overall Driving Impression

Overall, the driving experience in the Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross Elite is pretty positive. It's a comfortable and capable SUV that's well-suited to everyday driving. The S-AWC system is a real highlight, and the engine provides adequate power for most situations. While the CVT transmission might not be for everyone, it does help improve fuel efficiency. And while the noise levels could be better, the overall ride quality is good.

Pros and Cons

Let's break it down simply, what's great and what's not so great about the Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross Elite? This is where we get to the heart of the matter and weigh the positives against the negatives.

Pros

• Stylish Design: The Eclipse Cross Elite has a distinctive and modern design that helps it stand out from the crowd. If you're looking for an SUV that's not boring, this could be a good choice.
• Super All-Wheel Control (S-AWC): This is a major selling point. The S-AWC system provides excellent traction and stability in a variety of driving conditions, making it a great choice for those who live in areas with inclement weather.
• Well-Equipped Interior: The Eclipse Cross Elite comes with a lot of features, including leather seats, a premium audio system, and advanced safety technologies.
• Comfortable Ride: The suspension is tuned to provide a comfortable ride, even on rough roads.
• Good Value: Compared to some of its competitors, the Eclipse Cross Elite offers a lot of features for the money.

Cons

• CVT Transmission: The CVT transmission can feel a bit drone-y under hard acceleration, and it's not as engaging as a traditional automatic.
• Engine Power: While the 1.5-liter engine is adequate for most situations, it's not the most powerful engine in its class.
• Road Noise: There can be a fair amount of road noise that enters the cabin, especially at highway speeds.
• Rear Visibility: The sloping roofline of the Eclipse Cross can make rear visibility a bit challenging.
• Infotainment System: While the infotainment system has a lot of features, it's not the most intuitive to use.

Is the Eclipse Cross Elite Worth It?

So, the big question: Is the Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross Elite worth your hard-earned money? Well, it depends on your needs and priorities.

If you're looking for a stylish and well-equipped SUV with excellent all-wheel-drive capabilities, the Eclipse Cross Elite is definitely worth considering. The S-AWC system is a real standout feature, and the interior is comfortable and packed with technology. It also offers good value for the money, especially when compared to some of its competitors.

However, if you're a driving enthusiast who prioritizes performance and a sporty driving experience, the Eclipse Cross Elite might not be the best choice. The CVT transmission and the somewhat limited engine power might leave you wanting more. And if you're particularly sensitive to road noise, you might want to look at other options.

Ultimately, the best way to decide if the Eclipse Cross Elite is right for you is to take it for a test drive and see how it feels. Pay attention to the handling, the ride comfort, and the noise levels. And be sure to compare it to other SUVs in its class to see which one best meets your needs.

Alternatives to Consider

Okay, so maybe you're not 100% sold on the Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross Elite. That's totally fine! There are tons of other great SUVs out there in the same class. Let's take a quick look at some alternatives you might want to consider:

• Honda CR-V: The CR-V is a perennial favorite in the compact SUV segment, and for good reason. It's known for its reliability, fuel efficiency, and spacious interior. It's a great all-around choice for families and individuals alike.
• Toyota RAV4: Like the CR-V, the RAV4 is another top seller in the compact SUV class. It offers a comfortable ride, a fuel-efficient engine, and a wide range of features. Plus, Toyota has a reputation for reliability that's hard to beat.
• Mazda CX-5: If you're looking for an SUV that's fun to drive, the CX-5 is a great option. It has sporty handling and a stylish interior, making it a favorite among driving enthusiasts.
• Hyundai Tucson: The Tucson is a stylish and well-equipped SUV that offers a lot of value for the money. It comes with a long list of standard features and a comfortable interior.
• Kia Sportage: The Sportage is another strong contender in the compact SUV class. It has a bold design, a spacious interior, and a long warranty.

Each of these SUVs has its own strengths and weaknesses, so it's worth doing your research and test-driving a few different models to see which one you like best.

Final Thoughts

The Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross Elite is a solid choice in the compact SUV market. It offers a unique blend of style, features, and all-wheel-drive capability. The S-AWC system is a real highlight, and the interior is comfortable and well-equipped. However, the CVT transmission and road noise might be drawbacks for some buyers.

Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to buy the Eclipse Cross Elite is a personal one. It depends on your individual needs, preferences, and budget. But hopefully, this in-depth review has given you a better understanding of what the Eclipse Cross Elite has to offer, and has helped you make a more informed decision. Happy car shopping, guys!