Mitsubishi has never been known as a leader in the North American consumer market. Meanwhile, its recent model lineup has failed to help the automaker gain ground on its competition. Its latest attempt to gain favor with car shoppers is the refreshed 2022 Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross.

The Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross has woefully underperformed since debuting just a few years ago. Now, the Japanese manufacturer is doubling down on the crossover with the hopes that a mid-cycle refresh will help sway new buyers toward the Eclipse Cross.

Mitsubishi announced the latest updates to its affordable crossover via a press release. It revealed noticeable stylistic changes and intriguing innovations. However, North American shoppers won’t have the option to experience some of the most significant enhancements.

Do the latest upgrades make the 2022 Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross a contender, or has Mitsubishi missed the mark once again? Let’s take a deeper dive into what this new vehicle has to offer. 

Blunt edges have been smoothed out

Identifying traits aren’t always a positive aspect. Sometimes distracting elements can dissuade a specific segment of a brand’s consumer base, and this may just have been the case with the Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross. The crossover’s previous model years stood out with its distinct rear end, which bulged outward underneath its rear hatch window. 

Whether or not Mitsubishi saw this unique styling as an issue is up for debate. However, it undoubtedly expanded the vehicle’s potential clientele by scaling back the Eclipse Cross’ bold design. This enhancement isn’t merely visual, as Mitsubishi’s press release claims the design change improves rear visibility.

Additionally, the 2022 Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross’ refreshed design included minor changes to the crossover’s front bumper, the grille, and the taillights.

The 2022 Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross’ cabin is more functional

The crossover’s interior upgrades aren’t as significant, but they are still welcome. The 2022 Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross now features volume and tuning knobs in place of a touchpad. This change is expected to make it easier for drivers to adjust particular settings. Mitsubishi also moved the infotainment display system slightly closer to the front seats, allowing for easier use.

Meanwhile, buyers can outfit their 2022 Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross with a little extra flair, as black and silver interior trims are now available.

The 2022 Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross’ performance remains virtually unchanged

The 2022 Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross’ performance isn’t much to write home about – at least when it comes to the North American model. 

Last year, the U.S. News & World Report listed the 2020 Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross second to last in its compact SUV rankings. Only the Mitsubishi Outlander fared worse. The publication criticized the Eclipse Cross’ dull handling and lackluster power.

Unfortunately, the 2022 Eclipse Cross retains the same 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that powers the previous model years.

Meanwhile, Mitsubishi is introducing a plug-in hybrid version of the vehicle in select markets around the globe. However, it will not arrive in North America – at least not for a while. 

The final verdict

There’s more to like about the 2022 Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross following its mid-cycle refresh. However, these changes don’t push it into ‘must buy’ territory. The Eclipse Cross’ predicted reliability, performance, and comfort just don’t compare to other rival vehicles. Those in the market for a crossover would do well to explore models with a more proven track record. 

Although, it wouldn’t hurt to keep a watchful eye out for the Eclipse Cross plug-in hybrid if it makes a debut in the North American region.