The all-new 2018 Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross compact SUV received its world premiere this week at the 2017 Geneva International Motor Show. It will launch first in Europe this fall, before hitting the markets in Japan, North America and other corners of the globe.
Contrary to earlier rumours, the Eclipse Cross will not be replacing the RVR, but instead fit into the manufacturer’s lineup between the RVR and the Outlander.
The designers at Mitsubishi had as a mandate to create an genuine utility vehicle, but one whose styling evoked a coupe and whose lines were highly sculpted. To help ensure maximum impact, they developed a special red paint (similar to the strategy employed with the Mazda CX-5 and the Honda CR-V). And of course, the front end of the Eclipse Cross reflects the company’s new “Dynamic Shield” design concept.
Just as dynamic is the driving experience promised by the new SUV, which benefits from Mitsubishi’s all-wheel control system, as well as a new 1.5L, 4-cylinder turbocharged engine with direct fuel injection wedded to a continuously variable transmission with a simulated 8-speed manual mode. Total power output for the vehicle has not yet been announced.
Inside the 2018 Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross, the horizontal dashboard, silver metal framing elements and a purified decor make for a well-conceived environment. The thin display audio, touchpad controller and Head up display enhance the feeling of streamlined, modern practicality for driver and passengers alike. The system, of course, is Apple CarPlay- and Android Auto-compatible.
Behind the driver, the fold-down 60/40 rear seats feature long slide-and-recline adjustment to maximize occupant comfort or cargo capacity according to need.
