Has the 2019 Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross evolved the brand’s rally DNA?
Not too long ago, Mitsubishi was known for their rally heritage with the iconic Lancer Evolution series. Now, though, the company’s lineup has changed. The Lancer is dead, with no direct replacement in sight. In its place, the company has evolved toward a range of all-wheel drive crossovers, the latest of which is the 2019 Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross.
The decision to revive the Eclipse name in a crossover came as a surprise to many. Mitsubishi recently launched the model – complete with the brand’s S-AWC all-wheel drive system. With that system lies an important question for the Eclipse Cross: Does it retain any of the brand’s rally pedigree? In this video, Sarah heads into the Arizona desert on her own special stage to find out.
By the numbers
The 2019 Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross packs a 1.5-liter turbocharged engine with 152 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque. That engine comes mated to a Continuously Variable Transmission, as is the way with modern Mitsubishis. That does mean it returns decent fuel economy – at 25 City / 26 Highway / 25 Combined mpg for the top-spec SEL model. Prices kick off at $28,195 and rise to $32,015, as this car is equipped.
On the equipment front, the 2019 Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross does come with everything you’d expect in a modern crossover. There’s a Rockford Fosgate premium audio system and a 7.0-inch infotainment system. On the SEL, you get Forward Collision Mitigation braking, Blind Spot Warning with Lane Change Assist, Adaptive Cruise Control and Automatic High Beam assist. Mitsubishi also provides a 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty.
That aside, does the 2019 Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross feel like it retains any of Mitsubishi’s rally DNA? Watch the video above to find out! Subscribe to The Fast Lane Car and TFLnow for more news, views and real-world reviews.