Shop a used Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross as a compact AWD crossover built around a 152-hp 1.5-liter turbo and a CVT, sold in the U.S. from 2018 onward (with no 2021 model year). I'd pick a 2020 or newer example when the price gap is small, mostly to clear the early Forward Collision Mitigation software recalls. As of mid October 2026 the NHTSA API still shows those 2018-2019 campaigns, and IIHS still rates the updated side test Poor even though older side scores look fine.
This is the smaller sibling to the three-row used Mitsubishi Outlander. If you want a different compact crossover feel, our used Honda HR-V buying guide and used Mazda CX-30 buying guide cover two common cross-shops. Look, the Eclipse Cross wins on standard AWD and a long powertrain warranty more than it wins on speed.
What you get under the hood
Car and Driver's Eclipse Cross overview lists a turbocharged 1.5-liter four at 152 hp and 184 lb-ft, a continuously variable automatic, and all-wheel drive. In C/D testing a recent example reached 60 mph in 8.6 seconds and returned 26 mpg on the 75-mph highway loop, with EPA combined figures around 25-26 mpg depending on trim. The cabin is quiet for the class, the ride is soft, and the back seat has decent legroom with tighter headroom. Cargo space is small-crossover sized -- fine for groceries, tight for a road-trip stack. For engine and options codes on a specific car, use our Mitsubishi VIN decoder.
Mitsubishi's warranty when new was five years / 60,000 miles basic and ten years / 100,000 miles on the powertrain, per Car and Driver. That can still matter on lower-mileage late cars. I've watched shoppers skip a cold-start test drive and then discover a CVT that surges under light throttle -- take the car out before it is fully warm and feel for shudder between 0 and 30 mph.
Recalls to clear first
I queried the NHTSA recalls API for Eclipse Cross years on Friday evening, October 16, starting with the 2018 Eclipse Cross query. The campaigns that matter most for early cars:
- 18V620, 2018-2019: Forward Collision Mitigation ECU software may keep applying brakes after a pedestrian is no longer detected. Dealers reprogram the FCM-ECU free.
- 18V621, 2018: Hydraulic Unit-ECU software for cars with adaptive cruise and/or electric parking brake. Dealers update that software free.
Years 2020 through 2025 returned Count 0 in the API when I checked. That is not a lifetime clean bill. Our Mitsubishi recall check by VIN post shows how to confirm open work on the exact car. A dealer windshield sticker does not replace that VIN pull.
Crash scores worth reading carefully
IIHS ratings for the 2020 Eclipse Cross give Good marks in small-overlap front (both sides), the original moderate-overlap front, the original side test, and roof strength. The updated side test is Poor. IIHS also notes there was no 2021 model year. Headlight ratings swing from Acceptable on some SEL LED setups to Poor on base halogen ES/LE cars without high-beam assist, so match trim to the headlight table instead of assuming every Eclipse Cross lights the road the same way.
Compared with the Outlander, you give up a third row and some cargo cube for a shorter overall length and a lower entry price on many lots. Honestly, that trade only works if the CVT feels smooth on your drive and the FCM/ACC software campaigns show closed on the service printout. Ask for the repair order with the campaign number printed, not a verbal "we took care of it."
History report before you wire money
Rental fleets and short-term lease returns show up in this segment. Check title brands free on NMVTIS, then pull a full history on the VIN. Do not trust a cropped PDF from a Facebook seller -- we've seen edited accident sections. CarVins is a licensed CARFAX and AutoCheck reseller and is not affiliated with CARFAX, AutoCheck, Experian, or Mitsubishi. In mid October 2026 a single report with us runs about $5.50 guest / about $4.50 member, or near $6.75 for both brands, versus roughly $39.99-$44.99 retail direct. Confirm the number at checkout before you pay.
Comments (0)
No comments yet. Be the first to share your thoughts!
Log in to leave a comment.