Mitsubishi must be hoping some holiday spirit will rub off on buyers with news the all new Eclipse Cross goes on sale, just three days before Christmas.
The all-new SUV priced from $30,500 slots between the ASX and Outlander and is the first of a new generation of Mitsus.
You’d be forgiven for wondering whether there’s room for another SUV between this pair, but apparently this one follows a sportier theme.
A dash of excitement is just what Mitsubishi needs right now.
In terms of size, the ASX and Outlander share the same 2670mm wheelbase – so too does the Eclipse – which suggests they’re all spawned from the same platform.
All versions of the Eclipse Cross will be powered by an all-new, 1.5-litre direct injection turbocharged petrol engine that delivers 110kW of power and 250Nm of torque, coupled with a new CVT style automatic with eight steps, Sport mode, manual override and paddle shifters.
Mitsu says the new transmission benefits from the latest step logic technology to combine the packaging and running cost benefits of a CVT with the smoothness and responsiveness of a traditional automatic.
The Eclipse Cross will be available with two or four-wheel drive, the latter with Auto, Snow and Gravel modes.
A cockpit-style driving environment reinforces the focus on driving pleasure, with a rear seat that has eight recline settings and can be moved backwards or forwards 20cm.
“Mitsubishi has a long history in developing innovative and exciting new models and the Eclipse Cross will build on our reputation as a leader in the SUV segment,” said Mitsubishi Australia’s CEO, John Signoriello.
“We are excited to be able to announce the details of the forthcoming Eclipse Cross and we are looking forward to a strong 2018, as our expanded SUV range hits the road.”
Like previous models to emerge from the Japanese car maker in recent times the styling is sure to polarise opinion.
Mitsu seems a little reluctant to focus on the rear of the car with its two-tier boot lid in publicity shots.
Three variants will be offered in LS and Exceed specification levels.
- LS 2WD is priced from $30,500 and includes 18-inch alloys, Smart key, 7” SDA, 7 airbags, FCM, AHB, LDW, ASTC, HSA.
- 2WD Exceed takes the price to $36,000 with the addition of dual-zone air conditioning, leather interior, power and heated front seats, LED headlamps with auto levelling, double panoramic sunroof, HUD, BSW, RCTA, AVM, UMS.
- AWD Exceed tops the range at $38,500and comes with the same features plus the addition of Mitsubishi’s Super All Wheel Control four-wheel drive system.
