1 Compact SUV Always Costs Under $30,000
One of the most popular vehicle segments is compact SUVs. For the most part, compact SUVs drive like cars but provide SUV-like space inside. In addition, they’re often much more affordable than larger SUVs with more interior space. As a result, people tend to look for compact SUVs that are on the cheaper side. Only one compact SUV costs under $30,000 for any trim level, the 2022 Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross.
The 2022 Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross always costs less than $30,000
The compact SUV that costs under $30,000 for any trim is the 2022 Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross. Of the six trim levels available, the most expensive starts at $29,990 MSRP. That’s remarkably affordable for any model, let alone the top-of-the-line version of a compact SUV. Mitsubishi’s offering starts at $24,990 for the ES trim, which is the base model. This makes the Eclipse Cross one of the most affordable vehicles in its class.
Four other trims sit between the top and bottom of the lineup. Fortunately, the trims cover less than $5,000 total between them. However, that begs the question, is buying one of these Mitsubishi SUVs worth the money? Does the low price equal excellent value or a low-quality vehicle?
2022 Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross standard features
According to Edmunds, the 2022 Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross ES base model is pretty basic. Highlights of the feature lineup are cruise control, a seven-inch infotainment screen, one USB port, and a four-speaker audio system. In addition, the compact SUV has 16-inch wheels, foglights, heated side mirrors, a height-adjustable driver’s seat, automatic climate control, and 60/40-split rear seats that slide and recline. Lastly, advanced driver aids, automatic emergency braking, and lane departure warning are standard for every trim level.
On top of the technology and convenience items, the Eclipse Cross is available in front- or all-wheel drive. This is true for all trims, but AWD costs a little extra. Next, the turbocharged 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine makes 152 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque. It’s the only engine available for the Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross, and despite being weak, it allows owners an excellent 25 city and 28 highway mpg.
Is the fully loaded Eclipse Cross SEL worth the price?
With the entire lineup of 2022 Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross models costing so little, why not go for the best one? The fully-loaded Eclipse Cross SEL is just under $30,000 and is the most well-equipped of the lineup. Technically, it only adds blind-spot monitor with rear cross-traffic alert. However, it comes with everything from trim levels below it too. For example, leather upholstery, a heated steering wheel, navigation, keyless entry/ignition, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, and much more.
In addition, opting for the most expensive version of the compact SUV grants buyers access to the Touring package. As an exclusive package, it’s filled with outstanding features that make the Eclipse Cross much more modern and luxurious than lower-tiered trims. The Touring package adds black roof rails, a panoramic sunroof, an auto-dimming rearview mirror with Homelink, a head-up display, a premium eight-speaker audio system, heated rear seats, high-speed automatic emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control.
Only 1 compact SUV is always under $30,000
In conclusion, only the 2022 Mistubishi Eclipse Cross costs under $30,000 for any trim level. Whether you want the base model, fully-loaded trim, or anything in between, it’ll always cost you below $30,000. While compact SUVs often start in the mid-$20,000-$30,000 range, it isn’t very common for all trims to remain that affordable. Surprisingly, the top-tier trim with the Touring package is well-equipped and affordable. Even a few mid-tier trims come with plenty of standard features for the price.
