2007 Mitsubishi Eclipse in Joliet, IL - $2,995

I have to be honest with you, there was a time not so long ago, that I thought that the Mitsubishi brand of motor vehicles was doomed in the United States. Popular vehicles like the Eclipse coupe, Gallant sedan and Lancer sedan variants were no longer in the line-up, while the Endeavor SUV that was introduced with so much promise back in 2004 has become a historical footnote. But then, the folks at Renault/ Nissan, who had been buying rebadged Mitsubishi mini cars in Japan took an interest in the struggling automaker. Putting its money behind its intentions, Mitsubishi turned the “Dynamic Duo” into a “Terrific Three”. Their first act as a result has all the makings of a winner!

For 2018, the Eclipse nameplate is making a comeback in the form of a compact utility vehicle (CUV), the all-new Eclipse Cross. The Eclipse Cross is a fusion of sharp coupe looks and dynamic SUV mobility with signature Mitsubishi styling, technology and driving confidence.

Available in ES, LE, SE, and SEL trim levels, power is generated by a 1.5L turbocharged engine. Torque is communicated to the pavement through an eight-speed continuously variable automatic transmission. All-wheel drive is available.

Inside the passenger cabin represents a new design direction for Mitsubishi. The cockpit style interior wraps around the driver for a sporty feel. Everywhere the driver looks and everything touchable is of the utmost quality with no compromise on the detail. This is achieved by the use of high-grade interior materials and the use of piano-black and luminous silver interior accents.

The Eclipse Cross doesn’t come up short when it comes to safety features! The compact Mitsubishi CUV offers a list of sophisticated technology depending on trim level. The base ES includes heated sideview mirrors, Bluetooth wireless technology, rearview camera, seven airbags and an anti-theft alarm. SE trim adds Blind Spot Warning, Lane Change Assist, Rear Cross Traffic Alert and MITSUBISHI CONNECT communications system. The top-of-the-line SEL adds LED headlights and head-up display. The safety conscious can add a Touring Package to the SEL trim to gain additional safety technology such as Forward Collision Mitigation, Lane Departure Warning, Adaptive Cruise Control, and Automatic High Beams.

The base Manufacturers Suggested Retail Price for the 2018 Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross starts from $23,295 and will arrive in dealerships starting in March. Mitsubishi’s back in the game!