I have been behind the wheel of the redesigned 2022 Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross this week, a compact SUV that is intended to rival the RAV4, Honda CR-V, Ford Escape, and others.
Under the sculpted hood, you find a 1.5-liter 4-cylinder with a turbo that is putting out a somewhat paltry 152-horses, but it does produce 184-pound feet of torque. It is mated to a continuously variable transmission that you can somewhat control with large shift paddles on the steering column. My review vehicle is all-wheel drive, but it comes in two-wheel as well.
I will say I was impressed with the exterior looks of this SUV. The front end looks unlike any of the many others on the market, Mitsubishi has really stepped it up in the wheel department, and the rear lights and spoiler set it off.
The body lines from the side view are unique, but it all works. Overall, Mitsu designers did a super job making you take notice of this SUV, especially in the Red Diamond color.
Credit: Mitsubishi.
Equally impressive is the light grey interior that has slightly bolstered power seats that have light stitching. The gauge cluster is easy to see, though not fancy, and in the middle is a driver info center that offers minimal information.
I do like the steering wheel with controls that has gloss black along the bottom and has a good feel to the touch.
A look to the right center, up high, is a touchscreen that is smaller than I typically like, and not as colorful, but it does the job. You control audio, the navigation system, Bluetooth, vehicle settings, you can add apps, and you get Apple Carplay and Android auto also.
Back seat headroom will be good for people under 6-feet tall and legroom is normal for a compact SUV. Cargo area in the rear is fine too, with 50-cubic feet of storage with the back seats folded down. There is a real spare tire underneath, and a little lip in the rear to keep things from rolling out.
I am reviewing the SEL trim, which is the top-of-the-line. It is really quite well-equipped.
Credit: Mitsubishi.