Mitsubishi is poised to launch an all-electric iteration of its Eclipse Cross, a vehicle that, beneath its Japanese badging, shares its core engineering with the award-winning Renault Scenic E-Tech. This strategic alliance could subtly reintroduce Renault's technology to the American automotive landscape, a market the French automaker exited decades ago. The vehicle blends Mitsubishi's contemporary design philosophy with a robust electric powertrain, advanced infotainment, and comprehensive driver-assistance systems, offering a compelling package for the European compact SUV segment and potentially opening doors for a broader market presence.
The Eclipse nameplate, once associated with a sporty coupe, has evolved into a compact crossover, a transformation that has generated discussion among automotive enthusiasts. This new electric variant is crucial for Mitsubishi's survival and market strategy. If this EV makes its way to the United States, it would signify more than just a new electric model; it would represent a significant, albeit indirect, return for Renault, embedding its sophisticated electric platform within an accessible American-market vehicle.
The Electric Eclipse Cross: A Gateway for Renault's American Return
The Eclipse Cross has undergone a significant transformation, evolving from its sporty coupe origins to become a compact crossover, a move critical for Mitsubishi's continued presence in the automotive market. This evolution now includes a fully electric variant, which, despite bearing the Mitsubishi badge, is fundamentally a re-engineered version of the acclaimed Renault Scenic E-Tech. Should Mitsubishi introduce this electric Eclipse Cross to the United States, it would subtly facilitate the return of Renault's advanced engineering to the American market, a presence that has been absent for decades. This strategic rebadging leverages the strengths of both brands, offering consumers a familiar nameplate with cutting-edge French electric vehicle technology underneath.
The decision to bring the electric Eclipse Cross to America would be a pivotal moment, effectively allowing Renault's CMF-EV platform to re-enter a market it left in the late 1980s following the end of its alliance with American Motors. This reintroduction would be under the guise of a Mitsubishi, making the crossover a blend of Japanese and French automotive innovation. The vehicle boasts an 87 kWh battery, providing an estimated 373 miles of range on the WLTP cycle, with a mid-range variant planned for 2026. Its permanent-magnet synchronous motor delivers approximately 214 horsepower and 221 lb-ft of torque, enabling a 0–62 mph acceleration in 8.4 seconds and a top speed of 106 mph. The Eclipse Cross EV is equipped with flexible charging options, including AC charging up to 22 kW and DC fast charging up to 150 kW, along with four levels of regenerative braking and customizable drive modes, ensuring both efficiency and responsive performance.
Advanced Design and Interior: Blending Aesthetics with Technology
Unveiled in Brussels, the electric Eclipse Cross is built on the CMF-EV platform, a foundation shared with both Renault and Nissan, showcasing a collaborative effort in electric vehicle development. The exterior design incorporates Mitsubishi's latest Dynamic Shield language, echoing the aesthetics of models like the Xforce and Destinator 7-seater SUV popular in Southeast Asia. This design features a sculpted three-dimensional grille, a wide hexagonal rear motif, and offers a choice of 19- or 20-inch wheels. With dimensions of approximately 176 inches in length, 73 inches in width, and 62 inches in height, the vehicle is perfectly positioned within the competitive European compact SUV market, balancing a modern visual appeal with practical utility.
The interior of the Eclipse Cross EV is designed to provide a premium and technologically advanced experience. A full-size electrochromic panoramic roof allows ample natural light to fill the cabin, complemented by customizable 48-color LED ambient lighting. The cockpit features a 12.3-inch portrait infotainment display seamlessly integrated with a matching digital driver screen, offering a sophisticated and user-friendly interface. Modern conveniences include Google built-in services, wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a high-fidelity 410-watt Harman & Kardon audio system, ensuring a connected and enjoyable journey. The vehicle further enhances its appeal with over-the-air update capabilities, remote functions accessible via the Mitsubishi Motors app, and an extensive array of driver-assistance features, providing a comprehensive and contemporary driving packag