The Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross 1.5 T-MIVEC, produced from 2018 to 2021, represents the first generation (Eclipse Cross I) of Mitsubishi’s compact SUV offering. Positioned as a mainstream contender in the increasingly popular Crossover segment, the Eclipse Cross aimed to blend sporty styling with practical functionality. This particular variant, powered by the 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 163 horsepower, served as a core model within the lineup, offering a balance between performance and fuel efficiency. It was designed to appeal to buyers seeking a modern, feature-rich SUV without the higher price tag of more powerful or luxurious trims.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mitsubishi |
| Model | Eclipse Cross |
| Generation | Eclipse Cross I |
| Type (Engine) | 1.5 T-MIVEC (163 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2018 |
| End of production | 2021 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 8.2 l/100 km (28.7 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5.7 l/100 km (41.3 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 6.6 l/100 km (35.6 US mpg) |
| CO2 emissions | 151 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 10.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 10.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 9.8 sec |
| Maximum speed | 205 km/h (127.38 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 9.2 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6 kg/Nm |
| Power | 163 Hp @ 5500 rpm |
| Torque | 250 Nm @ 1800-4500 rpm (184.39 lb.-ft.) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | 4B40 |
| Engine displacement | 1499 cm3 (91.47 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 75 mm (2.95 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 84.8 mm (3.34 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.3 l (4.54 US qt | 3.78 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 5 l (5.28 US qt | 4.4 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1507 kg (3322.37 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2050 kg (4519.48 lbs.) |
| Max load | 543 kg (1197.11 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 378 l (13.35 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1159 l (40.93 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 63 l (16.64 US gal | 13.86 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 50 kg (110.23 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1600 kg (3527.4 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 80 kg (176.37 lbs.) |
| Length | 4405 mm (173.43 in.) |
| Width | 1805 mm (71.06 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2166 mm (85.28 in.) |
| Height | 1685 mm (66.34 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2670 mm (105.12 in.) |
| Front track | 1545 mm (60.83 in.) |
| Rear track | 1545 mm (60.83 in.) |
| Front overhang | 955 mm (37.6 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 780 mm (30.71 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 183 mm (7.2 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 10.6 m (34.78 ft.) |
| Approach angle | 18.8° |
| Departure angle | 29.6° |
| Ramp-over angle | 18.0° |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 6 |
| Type of gearbox | Manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent type McPherson |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 215/70 R16 |
| Wheel rims size | 6.5J x 16 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this Eclipse Cross variant is the 4B40 1.5-liter inline-four cylinder engine. This engine utilizes Mitsubishi’s T-MIVEC (Mitsubishi Innovative Valve timing and lift Electronic Control) technology, which allows for both variable valve timing and lift. This system optimizes engine performance across a wider range of engine speeds, improving both power and fuel efficiency. The engine employs direct fuel injection, further enhancing combustion efficiency and reducing emissions. A single-scroll turbocharger with an intercooler is used to boost power output. The engine is transversely mounted in the front of the vehicle. The six-speed manual transmission was chosen to provide a more engaging driving experience, and to keep the cost down compared to the optional CVT.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.5 T-MIVEC engine, paired with the six-speed manual transmission, delivers adequate performance for everyday driving. Acceleration from 0-60 mph takes approximately 9.8 seconds, and the vehicle has a top speed of 127.38 mph. While not particularly sporty, the engine provides sufficient torque (184.39 lb.-ft.) for merging onto highways and passing other vehicles. The manual transmission allows for greater driver control, but the gear ratios are tuned more for fuel economy than outright performance. Compared to higher-output versions of the Eclipse Cross, this variant feels less responsive, but it offers a more economical and engaging driving experience than the CVT-equipped models.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.5 T-MIVEC variant typically came standard with features such as automatic climate control, a touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, and a rearview camera. Safety features included ABS, stability control, and multiple airbags. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, and the dashboard featured a straightforward design. Optional extras included a panoramic sunroof, leather upholstery, and a premium sound system. The specific trim level (ES, LE, SE, etc.) determined the availability of these optional features.
Chassis & Braking
The Eclipse Cross utilizes a front-wheel-drive platform with an independent McPherson strut suspension in the front and an independent multi-link suspension in the rear. This suspension setup provides a comfortable ride quality, although it’s not particularly sporty. The vehicle is equipped with ventilated disc brakes in the front and solid disc brakes in the rear. The electric power steering provides light and precise steering feel.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross 1.5 T-MIVEC received mixed reviews from critics. While praised for its stylish design and comfortable interior, some reviewers found the engine to be underpowered and the handling to be somewhat uninspired. Fuel economy was generally considered to be good, and the vehicle offered a competitive price point. Compared to other trims in the Eclipse Cross lineup, this variant offered a more affordable entry point, but it lacked the performance and features of the higher-end models. It competed with other compact SUVs such as the Honda HR-V, Mazda CX-5, and Toyota C-HR.
Legacy
The 1.5 T-MIVEC engine has proven to be relatively reliable, with few widespread mechanical issues reported. The Eclipse Cross, as a whole, has established itself as a solid contender in the compact SUV segment. On the used car market, this variant offers good value for money, providing a practical and fuel-efficient option for buyers seeking a small SUV. While not a performance standout, its blend of features, fuel economy, and affordability has ensured its continued appeal.
