The compact SUV segment is getting bigger and bigger. Also at Mitsubishi you can still see growth potential, which is why the Japanese position the Eclipse Cross another model in the not very big gap between Outlander and ASX. The model celebrates its world premiere at the Geneva Motor Show (March 9 to 19); it will be on the market at the end of 2017.
The name Eclipse is not entirely new to Mitsubishi, because by 2012 the car maker had marketed a sports coupe of the same name. With a little goodwill, the design of the Eclipse Cross could be assumed to be coupé-like. Thanks to its heavily beveled rear section, the 4,40-meter-long Hochbeiner offers at least a certain basic dynamic, which is enhanced by character lines in the flanks, exhibited wheel arches and a large air opening in the chrome-decorated front.
The interior of the Eclipse is tidy and modern. Among other things, the workplace offers a large display for the infotainment system in the center of the dashboard, which is operated via the touchpad in the center console. The multimedia system can integrate smartphones via Apple Carplay or Adroid Auto, which allows the driver to call up text messages or make calls using a voice command. So that the driver can concentrate better on the traffic, there will also be a head-up display for the Eclipse Cross, which projects driving-relevant information into the driver's field of vision.
Mitsubishi initially planned two conventional internal combustion engines as the drive. A direct-injection 1,5-liter turbo gasoline engine can optionally be combined with a manual six-speed gearbox or a continuously variable automatic CVT. Alternatively, a 2,2-liter diesel will be available in combination with an eight-speed automatic. Mitsubishi has not yet mentioned performance and driving values, but thanks to an electronically controlled all-wheel drive in conjunction with the yaw moment control AYC (Active Yaw Control), the Japanese promise safe and dynamic driving behavior.
The Eclipse Cross is scheduled to come onto the German market at the end of 2017. In terms of price, it should be slightly above the ASX, which starts at around 20.000 euros. (Mario Hommen / SP-X)