The SUV coupe Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross has undergone the expected modernization. In the form of a plug-in hybrid, we will also see it in Europe.
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Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross is an SUV coupe paying homage to the former coupe of this Japanese carmaker. It was introduced in 2017, so the carmaker considered it appropriate to modernize the car. In selected markets, the modernized Eclipse Cross will go on sale later this year.
“From the day we started rethinking the Eclipse Cross, we wanted to emphasize the sporty stance and environmental friendliness, all with an exceptional style that will take this SUV to the next level.” says of the changes Minoru Uehara, Mitsubishi’s main product specialist responsible for this model.
The modified style is thus another evolution of the so-called dynamic shield, which is characteristic of Mitsubishi’s bow with chrome decoration. The modified mask as well as the low headlights were inspired by the e-Evolution concept from 2017.
But the stern also underwent an important change. The stylists have completely redesigned the boot lid, which means that it no longer has a split rear window, which contributes to a better view to the rear. The taillights are also new (albeit still vertically oriented), resulting in a style close to hatchbacks.
Important changes can also be found inside. The free-standing screen of the multimedia system is new, it basically offers a diagonal of eight inches. At the same time, Mitsubishi emphasizes easier control of the system, as well as a clearer display of information. The solution was a touchpad in the center tunnel, which freed up space for storage space, but the display is complemented by conventional rotary controls. In addition, the screen is located closer to the crew. Let us remind you, however, that on the Czech market Eclipse Cross also offers a system with navigation and a 6.5 “screen, which already has rotary controls and conventional buttons today.
As for the range of engines, the basic variant will continue to be the supercharged petrol four-cylinder 1.5 Turbo MIVEC, which in its current form 120 kW. As expected, however, it will be supplemented by a plug-in hybrid using techniku z Outlanderu PHEV. This means in particular the combination of the 2.4 MIVEC atmospheric four-cylinder with two electric motors (one for each axle) and a single-stage planetary gearbox. Mitsubishi did not publish more information about it, but it can be expected that the combined output of 165 kW will be maintained.
The modernized Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross will go on sale later this year. Surprisingly, they will be the first to see it in Australia and New Zealand, where the car will be launched in November, with a version of PHEV followed early next year. In North America, the sale will start in the first quarter of 2021, although at the moment exclusively with the conventional variant.
In the end, we will see the car in the form of a plug-in hybrid on selected European markets, including the Czech one. It will be gradually introduced in the spring of 2021, and we should see it in the Czech Republic in the middle of the year.
Although Mitsubishi has completed the development of new models for Europe as part of cost reduction, the facelifted Eclipse Cross, however, is not yet affected by this decision. Thanks to the plug-in hybrid drive, the car will offer low emissions that significantly reduce the brand’s fleet average, which will allow its launch on the old continent without significant additional costs.
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