The ultimate compact suv showdown: subaru crosstrek vs eclipse cross – which reigns supreme?
What To Know
- The Crosstrek achieves an EPA-estimated 27 mpg in the city and 34 mpg on the highway, while the Eclipse Cross gets 25 mpg in the city and 30 mpg on the highway.
- The Subaru Crosstrek has slightly better fuel economy than the Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross, achieving 27 mpg in the city and 34 mpg on the highway compared to the Eclipse Cross’s 25 mpg in the city and 30 mpg on the highway.
- Both the Subaru Crosstrek and Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross offer a suite of advanced safety features, but the Eclipse Cross has a slight edge with blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert as standard.
In the realm of compact crossovers, two formidable contenders emerge: the Subaru Crosstrek and the Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross. Both vehicles offer a captivating blend of rugged capability, versatility, and everyday practicality. However, which one truly stands out as the superior choice? This comprehensive comparison will delve into every aspect of these two crossovers, revealing their strengths, weaknesses, and the factors that ultimately determine which one deserves the crown.
Performance and Capability
Powertrain and Performance
The Crosstrek comes equipped with a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 152 horsepower and 145 lb-ft of torque. The Eclipse Cross, on the other hand, offers a 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that generates 152 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque. While both engines produce similar horsepower, the Eclipse Cross’s turbocharger gives it a slight edge in torque, resulting in more responsive acceleration and better low-end power.
Fuel Economy
In terms of fuel efficiency, the Crosstrek has a slight advantage over the Eclipse Cross. The Crosstrek achieves an EPA-estimated 27 mpg in the city and 34 mpg on the highway, while the Eclipse Cross gets 25 mpg in the city and 30 mpg on the highway.
Off-Road Capability
Both the Crosstrek and Eclipse Cross offer all-wheel drive systems, providing enhanced traction and stability in various driving conditions. However, the Crosstrek’s Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system, coupled with its higher ground clearance, gives it a slight edge in off-road performance.
Design and Space
Exterior Design
The Crosstrek’s exterior design exudes a rugged and adventurous spirit, with its bold body lines and protective cladding. The Eclipse Cross, in contrast, has a more sleek and aerodynamic profile, with sharp angles and a futuristic aesthetic.
Interior Space
The Crosstrek offers ample interior space for both passengers and cargo. The rear seats provide generous legroom and headroom, while the cargo area can accommodate up to 55.3 cubic feet of luggage with the rear seats folded down. The Eclipse Cross has a slightly smaller interior, with 49.9 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats folded down.
Features and Technology
Standard Features
The Crosstrek comes standard with a 6.5-inch touchscreen infotainment system, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, and a rearview camera. The Eclipse Cross offers a more advanced infotainment system with an 8-inch touchscreen, smartphone integration, and a 360-degree camera system.
Safety Features
Both the Crosstrek and Eclipse Cross come equipped with a suite of advanced safety features, including automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and adaptive cruise control. The Eclipse Cross also offers blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert as standard.
Price and Value
The Subaru Crosstrek has a starting price of $22,995, while the Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross starts at $25,995. While the Eclipse Cross offers a more advanced infotainment system and additional safety features, the Crosstrek’s lower price point and higher fuel efficiency make it a more value-oriented choice.
Takeaways: The Victor Emerges
After a thorough comparison of the Subaru Crosstrek and Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross, the Crosstrek emerges as the victor. Its rugged design, superior off-road capability, and lower price point make it the more compelling choice for buyers seeking a versatile and adventure-ready compact crossover. While the Eclipse Cross offers a more modern interior and advanced infotainment system, these features come at a higher price and sacrifice some of the Crosstrek’s core strengths.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which vehicle has better fuel economy?
The Subaru Crosstrek has slightly better fuel economy than the Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross, achieving 27 mpg in the city and 34 mpg on the highway compared to the Eclipse Cross’s 25 mpg in the city and 30 mpg on the highway.
Which vehicle has more cargo space?
The Subaru Crosstrek has slightly more cargo space than the Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross, offering 55.3 cubic feet with the rear seats folded down compared to the Eclipse Cross’s 49.9 cubic feet.
Which vehicle has more advanced safety features?
Both the Subaru Crosstrek and Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross offer a suite of advanced safety features, but the Eclipse Cross has a slight edge with blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert as standard.