For the first time, the Eclipse Cross is getting all-wheel-drive as a standard feature across the entire trim lineup. According to Mitsubishi this isn’t just any AWD system either but is inspired by rally racing victories at the WRC and Dakar. Here’s a deeper look at what the new system does and how much you’ll pay to get it. Super All-Wheel Control is the name of this dynamic AWD technology and on paper, it does look very capable. Instead of simply splitting torque from front to rear based on conditions, it integrates both the ABS system, Active Stability Control, and Mitsubishi’s Active Yaw Control to improve handling and grip.
Through the use of those tools and an
electronically controlled center differential, the Eclipse Cross should prove
to be more sure-footed than ever before. At the same time, it still doesn’t
feel like it’s worthy of the historically sporty name it carries. Under the
hood is still a 1.5-liter turbocharged engine with just 152-horsepower and 246 Nm of torque. In other words, it makes just barely more
power than a 1995 Eclipse coupe while weighing around 272 kg more. It’s also sending all of that power to the wheels through a CVT.
Mitsubishi also announced pricing for the Eclipse Cross lineup which starts at US$ 25,795 excluding destination/handling, tax, title, license, etc. Go for the very most expensive trim and it’ll start out at just US$ 31,395. Considering that Mitsubishi also offers one of the longest warranties in the market, the Eclipse Cross isn’t without some attractive qualities. Aside from the AWD system, little else is new with regard to the 2023 Eclipse Cross. Mitsubishi does say that it’s added new 18-inch wheels, new exterior trim, and a whole new rear hatch and window.
