Introduction and Overview
Welcome to another episode of CarTell.tv, where today, we’ll be taking a closer look at the Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross Plugin Hybrid in its top-of-the-line Exceed trim. With the shift towards electric vehicles gaining momentum, a subcompact SUV that can function as a pure electric or a hybrid vehicle is an attractive prospect. So, let’s dive in and discover what this stylish crossover has to offer.
Exterior Design
The Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross is a subcompact SUV that boasts an array of distinctive design elements. Upfront, the vehicle features sleek LED headlights and a muscular, rounded grille reminiscent of the Outlander’s style. Mitsubishi has managed to incorporate various design elements that work together harmoniously, resulting in a sophisticated and technologically advanced aesthetic.
From the side, sculpted lines and striking black 18-inch alloy wheels make a statement, along with the PHEV badging. The rear of the Eclipse Cross continues the sharp design language, sporting LED tail lights and brake lights. Overall, the Eclipse Cross offers a stylish alternative in the subcompact category, without being as obnoxious as the Toyota CHR or as plain as the Subaru XV.
Performance and Range
Under the hood, the Eclipse Cross Plugin Hybrid is powered by a 2.4L petrol engine and two electric motors—one on each axle. The engine generates 94 kW of power and 199 Nm of torque, while the electric motors produce up to 60 kW and 137 Nm of torque for the front wheels, and 70 kW and 195 Nm for the rear. This powertrain is mated to a CVT gearbox, providing a smooth and responsive driving experience without the need for a turbo.
The vehicle’s official fuel consumption is 1.9 L per 100 km, and with a 45 L fuel tank capacity, you could almost reach Perth from Adelaide on a single tank. However, in reality, fuel consumption depends on factors such as your daily route, driving habits, and EV mode usage. Drive sensibly, and your average consumption could be close to the advertised figure.
One of the standout features of the Eclipse Cross is its ability to drive in EV mode alone without engaging the engine, even during hill climbs or overtaking maneuvers. This is a rarity among hybrid vehicles. The 13.8 kWh battery offers up to 54 km of EV-only range, which should be sufficient for most daily drives, as the average Australian drives only 36 km per day.
Battery & Charging Times
Charging the Eclipse Cross is a breeze. You can use a regular 240V power outlet with the supplied 3-pin to Type 2 cable, taking approximately 6 hours to charge. Faster charging times are achievable with installed charging systems or public charging stations, which can charge the battery up to 80% in around 25 minutes. The vehicle also features both Type 2 and CHAdeMO charging inputs, allowing for greater charging station compatibility.
A standout feature of the Eclipse Cross is its Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) capability. This allows you to power appliances or equipment with a total output of up to 1500W using the 3-pin 240V power outlet. This versatility is not common in many more expensive EVs or plugin hybrids.
Driving Experience
The Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross provides an engaging driving experience, thanks in part to its two electric motors. It boasts good pickup, even in pure EV mode, making it perfect for city driving and expressway cruising. While it takes over 8 seconds to reach 100 km/h, it’s not designed to be a sports car—it’s a city crossover that excels in its intended purpose.
The suspension setup is softer than some rivals, making for a comfortable ride over most road surfaces. The Eclipse Cross also benefits from Mitsubishi’s Super All-Wheel Control (S-AWC), which offers excellent traction in various conditions. Its steering is well-weighted and responsive, providing confidence when navigating tight city streets or winding country roads.
Interior Features
Inside, the Eclipse Cross Exceed offers a premium feel with leather-appointed seats, heated front and rear seats, and a power-adjustable driver’s seat. The 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, allowing for seamless smartphone integration. Additionally, the Exceed trim comes with a head-up display, dual-zone climate control, and a power panoramic sunroof for an enhanced driving experience.
Rear Seats, Boot & Storage
The rear seats provide ample legroom and headroom, making it suitable for both adult and child passengers. The 60/40 split rear seats can fold down to increase the cargo space from 359 liters to 1,108 liters. While the boot may not be class-leading, it offers adequate space for daily use and weekend trips.
Safety Features
The Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross PHEV Exceed is equipped with a comprehensive suite of safety features, including Forward Collision Mitigation, Blind Spot Warning, Lane Departure Warning, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, and Adaptive Cruise Control. Additionally, it has a 5-star ANCAP safety rating, providing peace of mind for you and your passengers.
Conclusion and Pricing
The Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross PHEV Exceed is a stylish, eco-friendly, and versatile city crossover that offers a unique blend of performance, practicality, and value. With a starting price of around $48,000, it presents a compelling alternative to its rivals, such as the Nissan Qashqai and the Hyundai Kona Electric.
If you’re looking for a comfortable, efficient, and feature-packed vehicle for daily commuting and occasional adventures, the Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross PHEV Exceed is definitely worth considering. Head over to our YouTube channel to watch the full video review, where we explore this captivating crossover in even greater detail. Don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe for more in-depth car reviews!
#MitsubishiEclipseCross #PHEV #PluginHybrid #SUV #CarReview #TestDrive #CityCrossover #CarTellTV #ElectricVehicle #EVLife #CarLovers #Automotive #DriveElectric #EcoFriendly
