The Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross is the Japanese carmaker’s entry in the packed compact SUV model. Unfortunately, there’s not a lot that makes it stand out from the pack. Although the 2022 model will bring some much-needed improvements, the 2022 Eclipse Cross still falls short of a lot of the competitors in the segment. 

The 2022 Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross

Reviewers at MotorTrend liked some changes in the 2022 Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross, but still felt it fell short. Visually, it has a dramatic look, with a low profile, wide rear, and sleek lines. The 2022 model ditches the fixed light bar in the back that gave previous models a weird look. Reviewers enjoyed the ride quality but complained about the loud engine and less than precise handling. 

The powertrain is still on the weaker side when put up against the competition, and the unchanged engine is lacking the wow factor. The Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross has a 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine under the hood, putting out 152 hp and 184 lb-ft of torque. A continuously variable transmission is standard in both all-wheel-drive and four-wheel-drive models.

A big positive for the 2022 Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross is its long list of standard features. These include things that aren’t available on some competitors, such as a heads-up display, power panoramic moonroof, eight-way adjustable power passenger seat, navigation, paddle shifters, heated rear seats, power-folding side mirrors, heated side mirrors, and a multi-view camera system. 

What’s new in the 2022 Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross?

The Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross sat the 2021 model year out, and it’s now back for the 2022 model year. The changes are minimal; for 2022, Mitsubishi added more cargo space thanks to a vehicle that is 5.5 inches longer. There are more upholstery choices, and a repositioned infotainment system. The only mechanical change from 2020 is a revamped suspension with larger shock shafts and modified settings. 

The top model features heated seats, dual-zone climate control, and Android Auto/Apple CarPlay. Reviewers found the cabin adequate but didn’t love the abundance of cheaper, plastic materials. On the plus side, rear passengers have plenty of room to stretch out their legs with improved legroom in the back.

The safety systems also measure up well with the competition, featuring blind-spot monitoring, automatic high beams, forward collision mitigation, lane-change assist, and adaptive cruise control that judges the distance between you and the surrounding vehicles. Other standard safety systems include forward-collision mitigation with pedestrian detection and rear cross-traffic alert. 

The 2022 Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross is also built with Reinforced Impact Safety Evolution, or RISE, which features crumple zones, side-impact door beams, and reinforcements that protect both driver and passengers in case of an accident. There are also fog lights and rain-sensing wipers for inclement weather. 

Other compact SUVs to consider

There are other vehicles in the same class and price range that make better choices than the Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross. The Honda CR-V, the Toyota RAV4, and the Subaru Crosstrek all boast better handling than the Eclipse Cross and more powerful engines. The Volkswagen Tiguan also ranks high in this segment thanks to the fact that it squeezes in a third row. The Mazda CX-5 ranks high for its luxurious feel and abundant features. 

Although the 2022 Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross isn’t a bad compact SUV, it’s also not the best choice, according to reviewers at MotorTrend. There are better choices out there in the segment from Honda, Subaru, VW, Mazda, and Toyota. Unless you love the visual drama of the Eclipse Cross, the weaker powertrain and dated interior probably mean you’re going to look elsewhere.