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Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross gets important role in C-segment

With the arrival of the new Eclipse Cross, Mitsubishi is taking another step in strengthening its position within the popular C-SUV segment. From the end of 2025, the Japanese brand will have two models in this class, clearly targeting Europe’s largest car segment. The new electric SUV follows the introduction of the new Mitsubishi Grandis (July 2025) and follows the recently launched Outlander PHEV.

First all-electric Mitsubishi since i-MiEV

The Eclipse Cross is the first all-electric model (BEV) introduced by Mitsubishi Motors in Europe since the arrival of the i-MiEV in 2010. At the time, that compact city car was the first mass-produced electric car from a major manufacturer. The i-MiEV was a collaboration with the Peugeot iOn and Citroën C-Zero. So the new Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross marks an important step in the electrification of the brand.

Renewal of the European lineup

Mitsubishi aims to offer customers a complete range in the core market segments. The focus is on SUV models, with a variety of powertrains: from gasoline (ICE) to hybrid (HEV), plug-in hybrid (PHEV) and all-electric (BEV).

Overview European lineup from the end of 2025:

• COLT – B-segment, ICE/HEV – based on Renault Clio
• ASX – B-SUV, ICE/HEV – based on Renault Captur
• Grandis – C-SUV, ICE/HEV – based on Renault Symbioz
• Eclipse Cross – C-SUV, BEV – based on Renault Scenic E-Tech Electric
• Outlander PHEV – D-SUV, PHEV – own model

Own face

Compared to the Renault Scenic E-Tech Electric – on which the car is based – the new Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross gets a face of its own. In particular, think of its own front with Dynamic Shield design.

Choice of two battery variants

The electric car will be available with a choice of two battery options. At launch in late 2025, a long-range version will be available, suitable for longer trips and daily use. A mid-range version with a more compact battery pack will follow in 2026.

One advantage

With the new Eclipse Cross, Mitsubishi Motors adds a strategic model to its lineup. The electric SUV fits within the accelerated rollout of models in cooperation with alliance partner Renault. In doing so, Mitsubishi is moving toward a broader, more modern and more electrified offering for the European market. Compared to Renault, Mitsubishi does have an advantage: a more extensive warranty. Mitsubishi offers up to 8 years or 160,000 km of warranty, while with Renault it is only 2 years with no mileage limitation.

History of Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross

The Eclipse Cross is a compact SUV introduced in 2017. The name “Eclipse” refers to Mitsubishi’s sporty coupe produced between 1989 and 2012, while “Cross” makes it clear that this is a crossover. The Eclipse Cross was presented as a new model between the ASX and the Outlander. Mitsubishi positioned it as a modern alternative for people seeking a sporty look and a higher seating position. Built on a modified platform from the Outlander Sport, the model was given a striking, dynamic design with a sloping rear window, sharp lines and a distinctive two-piece rear window.

Motors and drive

At launch, the Eclipse Cross was available with a 1.5-liter turbocharged gasoline engine mated to a manual transmission or a CVT automatic transmission. A diesel variant (in certain markets) and an all-wheel-drive version also followed later. A facelift came in 2021, with a sharpened design and a greater emphasis on comfort and modern technology.

Plug-in hybrid

In 2021, Mitsubishi introduced a plug-in hybrid version of the Eclipse Cross, mainly for the European market. This PHEV used technology from the Outlander PHEV, with two electric motors and a 2.4-liter gasoline engine, allowing electric driving up to about 45-55 kilometers. This move was in line with Mitsubishi’s electrification strategy.

Market position and production

The Eclipse Cross was sold worldwide, including in Europe, North America, Asia and Australia. Production took place in Japan and Thailand. Although sales results varied by market, the Eclipse Cross was important to Mitsubishi as a bridge between traditional SUVs and modern, more electrified models. The new Eclipse Cross to be presented in September 2025 will be marketed exclusively as an EV.