Qashqai vs. eclipse cross: the crossover showdown you don’t want to miss

The compact crossover segment is fiercely competitive, with automakers vying for market share with feature-packed and stylish offerings. Two such contenders are the Nissan Qashqai and the Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross. Both vehicles boast a blend of practicality, comfort, and technological advancements. In this comprehensive comparison, we delve into the intricacies of each model, exploring their strengths, weaknesses, and ultimate value proposition.

Performance and Efficiency:

Under the hood, the Nissan Qashqai offers a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 141 horsepower and 147 lb-ft of torque. The Eclipse Cross, on the other hand, comes equipped with a 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that generates 152 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque. While the Eclipse Cross boasts slightly more power and torque, both vehicles offer adequate performance for everyday driving.

In terms of fuel efficiency, the Qashqai has a slight edge over the Eclipse Cross. The Qashqai returns an EPA-estimated 26 mpg in the city and 33 mpg on the highway with front-wheel drive, while the Eclipse Cross gets 25 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway with all-wheel drive.

Interior Space and Comfort:

Inside, the Qashqai and Eclipse Cross offer spacious cabins with comfortable seating for five passengers. However, the Qashqai provides a more generous amount of legroom and headroom in both the front and rear seats. The Eclipse Cross, on the other hand, features a more sculpted dashboard and center console, which may restrict legroom for taller occupants.

When it comes to cargo space, the Qashqai offers a slightly larger trunk with 28.6 cubic feet of cargo capacity behind the rear seats, compared to the Eclipse Cross’s 22.6 cubic feet. Both vehicles offer foldable rear seats to expand cargo capacity as needed.

Technology and Features:

Both the Qashqai and Eclipse Cross come well-equipped with a suite of technology features. The Qashqai features an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, as well as a Bose premium audio system. The Eclipse Cross offers a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system with smartphone integration and a Rockford Fosgate premium audio system.

In terms of safety features, the Qashqai comes standard with automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and blind-spot monitoring. The Eclipse Cross offers similar safety features, but adds adaptive cruise control and lane keep assist as standard equipment.

Handling and Ride Quality:

On the road, the Qashqai and Eclipse Cross offer a comfortable and composed ride. The Qashqai’s suspension is slightly softer, providing a more plush ride over rough roads. The Eclipse Cross, on the other hand, has a firmer suspension that provides better handling and stability during spirited driving.

Both vehicles offer all-wheel drive as an option, which enhances traction in slippery conditions. The Eclipse Cross‘s all-wheel-drive system is more advanced, with a torque-vectoring feature that improves handling and traction on uneven surfaces.

Design and Styling:

The Qashqai and Eclipse Cross adopt distinct design philosophies. The Qashqai features a more conventional crossover design with a sloping roofline and a bold grille. The Eclipse Cross, on the other hand, has a more aggressive and futuristic design with a split-window rear end and sharp angles.

Ultimately, the choice between the Nissan Qashqai and Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross depends on individual preferences and priorities. The Qashqai offers a spacious and comfortable cabin, good fuel efficiency, and a comprehensive suite of technology features. The Eclipse Cross, on the other hand, provides more power and torque, a more advanced all-wheel-drive system, and a more aggressive design.

Which Vehicle is Right for You?

If you prioritize space, comfort, and fuel efficiency, the Nissan Qashqai is an excellent choice. If you prefer sportier handling, a more advanced all-wheel-drive system, and a bolder design, the Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross is a worthy contender.

Summary:

The Nissan Qashqai and Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross are both compelling options in the compact crossover segment. They offer a blend of practicality, comfort, and technology, with each vehicle catering to specific needs and preferences. Ultimately, the best choice for you depends on your individual driving style, space requirements, and technological preferences.

What You Need to Learn

Which vehicle has a more powerful engine?

The Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross has a more powerful engine, with 152 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque, compared to the Nissan Qashqai’s 141 horsepower and 147 lb-ft of torque.

Which vehicle has a more spacious interior?

The Nissan Qashqai has a more spacious interior, with more legroom and headroom in both the front and rear seats.

Which vehicle has a better fuel economy?

The Nissan Qashqai has a better fuel economy, with an EPA-estimated 26 mpg in the city and 33 mpg on the highway, compared to the Eclipse Cross’s 25 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway.

Which vehicle has a more advanced safety features?

The Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross has more advanced safety features, including adaptive cruise control and lane keep assist as standard equipment.

Which vehicle has a more aggressive design?

The Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross has a more aggressive design, with a split-window rear end and sharp angles.