Pulse - Value Added
FRACTIONAL CRO · MARYLAND-BASED, NATIONWIDE · $0→$200M

Kory White

RevOps & Revenue Leadership

Get a free 30-minute revenue checkup — Kory reviews your pipeline and forecast, then names the 1–2 fixes that move revenue fastest. 25 yrs scaling teams $0→$200M.

Free 30-min revenue checkup →
Hire a Fractional CROHow We Help?LinkedInRésuméCRO Syndicate
← Library
Knowledge Library · pulse-reviews
13/13 Gate✓ IQ Certified10/10?

Best Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross Model Years (Ranked) in 2027

CarsBest Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross Model Years (Ranked) in 2027
📖 2,630 words🗓️ Published Aug 5, 2026
Direct Answer

The 10 best best mitsubishi eclipse cross model years (ranked) are ranked below on measured performance, build quality, price, and how each one actually holds up in daily use rather than how it reads on a spec sheet. Each pick lists what it costs, who it suits, and what it gives up against the one above it, so the list can be read straight down without doubling back.

1. 2022-2024 Facelift

The 2022-2024 facelift is the best Eclipse Cross because it fixes the model's biggest flaws. Mitsubishi replaced the split rear window with a single conventional pane, improving rear visibility, and added about a cubic foot of cargo space. The awkward center touchpad was deleted in favor of an 8-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a volume knob. These newest cars also carry the most remaining 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty.

This generation is for buyers who want the most refined and usable Eclipse Cross with the longest warranty. It trades a higher used price for the improved design and tech. Compared to the 2020-2021 pre-facelift, it offers a better rear view and simpler infotainment, but costs noticeably more. If your budget reaches a recent used car, this is the one to buy.

2. 2020-2021 Pre-Facelift

The 2020-2021 pre-facelift is the best value because it offers the same 152-hp 1.5L turbo and CVT as newer cars at a lower price. By 2020, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, and the trim range spanned ES, LE, SE, and SEL. These cars still have the split rear window and touchpad, but they deliver nearly the same daily experience as the facelift.

This model year is for value-focused buyers who can tolerate the touchpad and split-window quirks. It trades the improved rear visibility and touchscreen of the 2022-2024 facelift for a clearly lower purchase price. The 10-year powertrain warranty still provides a strong safety net. For most shoppers, this is the smartest balance of cost and capability.

3. 2023 Eclipse Cross

The 2023 model year ranks third because it is a facelift-generation car with several years of warranty remaining. It retains the single-pane rear glass and 8-inch touchscreen, with the same 1.5L turbo and CVT. Standard equipment is generous, and SE and SEL trims add heated seats, leather, and a head-up display. As a 2023 build, it has lower mileage than older examples and more warranty left than a 2022.

This year is for buyers who want a nearly new car without paying for the latest build. It trades a slightly higher price than a 2022 for a fresher condition and more remaining coverage. Compared to the 2024 model, it is essentially identical but costs a bit less. A 2023 delivers the best of the facelift generation at a reasonable used price.

4. 2024 Eclipse Cross

The 2024 model is the final US Eclipse Cross and ranks fourth as the newest example with the longest remaining warranty. It carries the facelift styling, touchscreen, and full safety suite, with the lowest mileage on the used market. The 1.5L turbo and CVT are unchanged, and S-AWC remains available. As the most recent build, it has the most factory coverage left.

This year is for buyers who prioritize maximum warranty and freshest condition over value. It trades near-new pricing for the peace of mind of a longer coverage period. Compared to the 2023, it is mechanically identical, so the premium is only for the newer build date. Buy a 2024 only if the extra warranty is worth the higher cost.

5. 2022 Facelift

The 2022 model year introduced the facelift, making it the first Eclipse Cross with the conventional rear window and deleted touchpad. It added cargo space and an 8-inch touchscreen, addressing the main complaints of earlier cars. The 1.5L turbo and CVT are well understood by this point, so there is little new-design risk. A 2022 example pairs the improved design with a slightly lower price than 2023-2024 cars.

This year is for buyers who want the facelift benefits at a lower entry cost. It trades a bit of remaining warranty compared to newer models for a lower price. Compared to the 2020-2021 pre-facelift, it offers better visibility and simpler infotainment. A 2022 is a sensible entry into the facelift generation.

6. 2019 Pre-Facelift

The 2019 Eclipse Cross is the second model year and a solid budget choice. It keeps the launch car's 1.5L turbo, CVT, and available S-AWC, with minor equipment tweaks. These cars still have the split rear window and touchpad controller, which some owners find fiddly. The upside is a low used price, and depending on the original sale date, a meaningful chunk of the 10-year powertrain warranty may remain.

This year is for budget buyers who accept the touchpad and split-window quirks. It trades rear visibility and infotainment ease for a clearly lower cost. Compared to the 2020-2021 models, it is slightly less refined but cheaper. Inspect the infotainment and confirm CVT service, and a 2019 makes a reasonable value commuter.

7. 2018 Launch Year

The 2018 model was the Eclipse Cross's US debut and the first year of the GK platform. As a first-model-year car, it is the one most worth scrutinizing: the early touchpad infotainment drew heavy complaints, and the split rear window hurts visibility. Mechanically, the turbo and CVT are the same units used throughout the run. These are now the cheapest Eclipse Cross examples on the used market.

This year is for bargain hunters who accept the quirks for the lowest price. It trades the refinements of later years for maximum savings. Compared to the 2019, it is essentially the same car but with a higher chance of first-year software issues. Buy a 2018 only at a low price, with a clean inspection and documented CVT maintenance.

8. S-AWC All-Wheel Drive

The S-AWC all-wheel-drive system is the variant to seek for snow-belt and poor-weather buyers. Mitsubishi's S-AWC distributes torque for confident traction and pairs naturally with the 1.5L turbo's low-end response. AWD examples carry a small fuel-economy and price penalty over front-drive cars but add real all-weather security. They also tend to hold value slightly better.

This variant is for buyers who face snow, rain, or light off-road conditions. It trades a bit of fuel economy and a higher purchase price for improved traction and stability. Compared to the front-wheel-drive ES, it offers superior foul-weather grip. An S-AWC SE or SEL is the configuration most worth targeting outside warm, dry climates.

9. Front-Wheel-Drive ES

The front-wheel-drive ES is the most economical way into an Eclipse Cross. It uses the same 1.5L turbo and CVT as pricier trims but drops S-AWC and some equipment. This returns slightly better fuel economy and a lower purchase price. As the value end of the lineup, it is a sensible pick where snow is rare.

This variant is for warm-climate, budget-minded buyers. It trades foul-weather grip and a more basic interior for the lowest cost of entry. Compared to the S-AWC variant, it saves money and fuel but gives up all-weather security. Confirm the CVT has been serviced, and an FWD ES delivers turbocharged commuting at the lowest price.

10. Eclipse Cross PHEV

The Eclipse Cross PHEV is a plug-in hybrid offered outside the US, using twin electric motors and a battery pack for electric-only driving range. It was never sold in the United States, which is why it ranks last for US buyers. Where available, it adds AWD via dual motors and meaningful electric range, at a higher price and weight. It is the most efficient and technically interesting Eclipse Cross for international shoppers.

This variant is for buyers in Europe, Australia, and other regions where it is sold. It trades a higher price and weight for electric-only capability and efficiency. Compared to the US-only gasoline models, it offers better fuel economy but is not available to American buyers. US shoppers should disregard it; international buyers may find it the most compelling option.

How we ranked these

We ranked Eclipse Cross model years by weighting the 2022 facelift's improvements most heavily: single-pane rear window, 8-inch touchscreen with CarPlay/Android Auto, added cargo space, and remaining 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty. We also factored in trim availability, S-AWC all-wheel-drive capability, and typical used-market pricing. Earlier years were scored lower for the touchpad controller, split rear window, and first-year quirks.

We deliberately ignored subjective styling opinions and brand reputation, focusing only on objective, verifiable changes and common owner-reported issues. We did not penalize the model for its modest fuel economy or average cargo space, since those are class-typical. We also excluded the non-US PHEV from the main ranking because it was never sold in America, keeping the list relevant to US shoppers.

Related questions

What is the best Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross model year to buy?

The 2022-2024 facelift models are the best overall. They replaced the split rear window with a single pane, added an 8-inch touchscreen with CarPlay/Android Auto, and have the most remaining powertrain warranty. For the best value, a 2020-2021 pre-facelift offers nearly the same experience for less money.

Are 2018-2019 Eclipse Cross models reliable?

They use the same 1.5L turbo and CVT as later years, so reliability is similar, but they have the touchpad infotainment and split rear window that hurt usability and visibility. They are the cheapest options, so they can be a good budget pick if the CVT has been serviced and the infotainment works.

What is the difference between the 2021 and 2022 Eclipse Cross?

The 2022 model is a facelift: it has a single-piece rear window instead of the split design, about an inch more length, a cubic foot more cargo space, and an 8-inch touchscreen with a volume knob, replacing the touchpad. The powertrain and S-AWC system are unchanged.

Is the Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross all-wheel drive worth it?

Yes, especially in snow or wet climates. The S-AWC system provides confident traction and stability, and it holds value slightly better. The trade-off is a small fuel-economy penalty and higher purchase price, so it's not necessary for warm, dry regions.

What are common problems with the Eclipse Cross CVT?

Some early owners reported hesitation or shudder, but the CVT is generally durable if serviced regularly. The key is to verify that the fluid has been changed at the recommended intervals and to test-drive for smooth, noise-free operation. Neglected fluid is the biggest risk.

How long does the Eclipse Cross powertrain warranty last?

Mitsubishi offers a 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty for the original owner, and it transfers to subsequent owners under its terms. This is a major value point, so check the remaining balance on any used example you consider.

What is the fuel economy of the Eclipse Cross?

The 1.5L turbo with CVT returns around 25-26 mpg city and 28-29 mpg highway for front-wheel drive, and slightly less with S-AWC. These figures are average for the compact crossover class, not class-leading, but acceptable for the performance.

Why is the Eclipse Cross PHEV not in the US ranking?

The PHEV was never sold in the United States, so it's irrelevant for US buyers. It's available in Europe, Australia, and other markets, offering AWD via twin electric motors and electric-only range. For US shoppers, it doesn't exist, so it ranks last.

FAQ

What is the best Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross model year to buy?

The best overall years are the 2022-2024 facelift models, which addressed earlier complaints with a redesigned single-pane rear window, more cargo space, and a standard 8-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. As the newest cars they also retain the most of Mitsubishi's 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty, making them the most well-rounded choice.

Are the older 2018-2019 Eclipse Cross models worth considering?

They are the budget end of the lineup. The 2018-2019 cars use the same 152-hp 1.5L turbo and CVT, but they have the disliked center touchpad controller, the polarizing split rear window that hurts visibility, and less cargo room. They are the cheapest examples, so they make sense only at a low price with a clean inspection and documented CVT service.

What is the best value Eclipse Cross model year?

The 2020-2021 pre-facelift models offer the best value. By then Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard and the full ES/LE/SE/SEL trim range was available, yet they sell for noticeably less than the 2022-plus facelift while sharing the same reliable powertrain and the same long warranty.

Should I get front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive (S-AWC)?

Choose S-AWC all-wheel drive if you face snow, rain, or light off-road conditions, as it improves traction and stability and is one of the model's stronger features. Front-wheel drive is fine for dry climates and saves a bit on fuel and purchase price, but it gives up foul-weather grip.

Are there common issues with the Eclipse Cross's CVT?

The CVT is generally durable for normal driving, but some early owners reported hesitation or shudder, and CVTs in any modern vehicle are sensitive to neglected fluid service. Verify the maintenance history, confirm the fluid has been changed at the recommended intervals, and test-drive for smooth, noise-free operation before buying.

How does the Eclipse Cross compare to rivals like the Honda HR-V or Subaru Crosstrek?

The Eclipse Cross counters with a standard turbocharged engine and a longer warranty than most rivals, but its fuel economy and rear-seat/cargo space are only average for the class. The Honda HR-V emphasizes interior space and resale, and the Subaru Crosstrek offers standard AWD with more ground clearance, so the Eclipse Cross competes mainly on value, warranty, and styling.

What is the towing capacity of the Eclipse Cross?

The Eclipse Cross is not designed for heavy towing; it has a maximum towing capacity of 1,500 pounds when properly equipped. This is sufficient for a small trailer or jet ski, but not for a boat or camper. Most rivals in the class have similar or slightly higher limits.

Does the Eclipse Cross have Apple CarPlay and Android Auto?

Yes, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard on all 2020 and newer models, and on the 2022 facelift they are integrated into the 8-inch touchscreen. Earlier 2018-2019 models do not have these features, which is a significant reason to prefer the later years.

What is the difference between the SE and SEL trims?

The SE adds heated front seats, a power driver's seat, and blind-spot warning, while the SEL adds leather upholstery, a head-up display, and a premium audio system. Both are available with S-AWC. The SEL is the top trim and offers the most comfort and technology features.

Is the Eclipse Cross being discontinued?

Yes, the Eclipse Cross was discontinued in the US after the 2024 model year, as Mitsubishi shifts focus to the Outlander and Outlander Sport. This means used prices may stabilize, and parts and service will still be available through Mitsubishi dealers, but no new models will be sold.

Sources

flowchart TD S["Best best mitsubishi eclipse cross mode"] S --> R0["1. 2022-2024 Facelift"] S --> R1["2. 2020-2021 Pre-Facelift"] S --> R2["3. 2023 Eclipse Cross"] S --> R3["4. 2024 Eclipse Cross"] S --> R4["5. 2022 Facelift"]
flowchart LR A["Choosing best mitsubishi eclipse cross mode"] --> B{"Budget first?"} B -->|"No"| C["2022-2024 Facelift"] B -->|"Yes"| D{"Need every feature?"} D -->|"Yes"| E["2024 Eclipse Cross"] D -->|"No"| F["Eclipse Cross PHEV"]

Related on PULSE

Download:
Was this helpful?  
⌬ Apply this in PULSE
Pulse CheckScore reps on the metrics that matter