 |
| Source: autoblog |
Revealed at a motor show in Geneva at the start of May, the long-awaiting Eclipse Cross finally has a release date. Touted as Mitsubishi’s sports car SUV that will compete directly with high power SUVs that are becoming very popular in the market and nearly all car manufacturers are exploring intently. The Outlander has performed well in its niche but doesn’t have the power to compete with some of these other mid-sized SUV’s currently on the market. The Eclipse Cross, named as such after the sports car sedan released back in 1989, will allow Mitsubishi to enter the power SUV race with a car that is stirring up a lot of interest already. Let’s have a look at the information currently on hand.
Appearance
The success and early buzz for most new car announcements depend on its appearance, so it’s no surprise that the 2018 Eclipse is a bit of a knockout. Sharp and muscular looking, the model’s exterior has that unique Mitsubishi look with flat headlights and a large grill. Mitsubishi has managed to nail down how SUV’s are expected to look stylistically, the Eclipse is large, bold and vibrant, which is the aesthetic that has come to be expected of this class of cars.
Strictly speaking, the Eclipse is something crossover of a coupe and an SUV and finds a middle ground that will appeal to many, with a slanted roofline and a large presence despite its relatively small frame compared to other SUVs on the market. These things considered, rather than being a family vehicle like the Mitsubishi Outlander, for example, the Eclipse is very much a sports car first and foremost.
Under the Hood
The Eclipse’s fierce appearance is matched with a feisty 1.5 litre turbocharged 4 cylinder petrol engine, with 4WD capability adding to the power and overall performance. Consumers will also have a 2.2-litre turbo diesel option, with the eight-speed auto transmission. The car’s smaller, light-weight frame will give it a little extra power compared to other SUVs on the market.
The Competition
Despite being slightly smaller than them, the Eclipse is set up to mix it with the likes of the Hyundai Tucson and the Toyota RAV4, both of which have had success in the Australian market over many years. In addition to it’s bolder, more daring design, the Eclipse is also quite a bit smaller than its competition. While it will be competing with these larger SUVs, Mitsubishi hopes that the Eclipse will also attract some buyers looking for a more compact SUV, with the feel and power of a sports car.
The Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross is set to be released in late 2017, though a specific date is yet to be confirmed. We and many other will be keeping our eyes out for updates through the year, as the Eclipse is certainly something to look forward to. To browse through more Mitsubishi cars on offer, visit our website at chadstonemitsubishi.com.au.
