Not many know this, but Mitsubishi Motors actually have had quite a successful run with electrified vehicles. Their i-MIEV was actually the first highway-capable electric cars ever mass produced, and they later sold the Outlander PHEV with much success in countries like the UK. Now it looks like they’re bringing that PHEV system to their more compact Eclipse Cross in the recently announced update. It would be interesting if Mitsubishi Motors Malaysia could make a business case of this particular variant. As it stands, there are no Plug-in Hybrid options from any of their Japanese rivals. With the right incentives from the government and CKD programme, the Cross Eclipse could be a great option for those looking for a relatively affordable electric vehicle that still has a petrol motor for practical concerns.
Details of the new plug-in hybrid system were just shared over the weekend. Some technologies in the powertrain have carried over from the Outlander PHEV with modifications for the Eclipse Cross’ smaller size and weight. There’s one electric motor at the front and one electric motor at the rear, both relatively high powered. If it’s the same exact motors as the Outlander PHEV, then expect a 60kW motor in front and a 70kW motor at the rear. A large-capacity battery and a 2.4-litre MIVEC petrol engine and a single speed planetary gearbox is also present in the hardware set.
The Cross Eclipse PHEV can be driven in 3 modes: EV, Series Hybrid or Parallel Hybrid. On EV mode, the powertrain should be able to deliver more than 35km of range, based on the heavier Outlander’s performance.
What’s also interesting is that the large battery can also be used for leisure activities while the car is parked with 1,5000 watts of power available through an on-board outlet. When fully-charged, it can power a general household for up to 10 days via the Vehicle-to-Home system.
The 1.5-litre MIVEC turbo petrol engine also returns to the Cross Eclipse as the primary powertrain option.
Here’s the press release with more.
PRESS RELEASE
MITSUBISHI MOTORS CORPORATION (MMC) today revealed the restyled ECLIPSE CROSS with a sleek sporty SUV appearance, driving confidence and improved comfort. Also, the model will add a plug-in hybrid (PHEV) powertrain in select markets to fulfil the diversifying needs of customers who are looking for a more sustainable alternative.
The new ECLIPSE CROSS gasoline model will first launch in Australia and New Zealand in November, with the PHEV variant available in 2021. Both the gasoline and PHEV variants start pre-orders today in Japan, and will be available later this year. In North America, the gasoline model will debut in the first quarter of 2021; there are no plans at this time to add the PHEV model for that market. “From the day we started to rethink the new ECLIPSE CROSS, we wanted to address an attitude of boosted road performance and eco-friendliness, all with a stand-out style that will take this SUV to the next level,” said Minoru Uehara, chief product specialist of MMC, who is responsible for leading and facilitating the creation of the new ECLIPSE CROSS. “Besides the contemporary exterior and comfortable and smart interior, MITSUBISHI MOTORS’ legendary Super All Wheel Control (S-AWC) system ensures that drivers are always in control for their next adventure.”
Refreshed Design Inside Out
The redesigned ECLIPSE CROSS features significant styling enhancements, producing a sleek sporty SUV appearance. Never before has a Mitsubishi vehicle been so design-forward, as ECLIPSE CROSS brings sophistication to the next level. The result is a vehicle that looks sleek, stable, upscale and unique. The front end adopts an evolved version of Mitsubishi’s signature Dynamic Shield design concept, expressing strength and security. A new front bumper guard and refreshed light layout completes the front design with a bold, dynamic look. The sleek silhouette continues to the rear with a redesigned hatch and rear window, giving a more sophisticated SUV styling and resulting in improved rear visibility as well as distinctive and contemporary styling. ECLIPSE CROSS’ iconic three-dimensional taillights extend upwards and inwards, and enhance the look with a stable and wide presence. The new tailgate features a sharply sculpted hexagon design reminiscent of the company’s iconic rear-mounted spare tire shape, blending the sleek and elegant style with the ruggedness and dependability expectations of an SUV.
Inside the cabin, a new black interior with silver accents and light gray leather seats creates a more sophisticated look. Door trims also coordinate with the car seat color to feature a high-quality, sporty interior space. ECLIPSE CROSS’ interior has always been an exciting and comfortable place to spend time, and the new changes move it to a more enjoyable and upscale level. A new 8-inch smartphone-link display audio (SDA) system comes standard, giving the driver a better view of the information and easier operation. The screen has been moved closer to the driver and front-seat passenger for ease of use, and now incorporates volume and turning knobs for fast reference. The touchpad that was previously used for multiple functions has been removed to allow for more storage space on the center console.
Engineered For Eco-Friendly and Dynamic Performance
The newest addition of the PHEV powertrain optimizes energy efficiency and offers a smooth driving experience. Riding on the success of the OUTLANDER PHEV, the world’s best-selling plug-in hybrid vehicle, the new ECLIPSE CROSS uses the same twin-motor 4WD PHEV system with modifications specific to the size and weight of the ECLIPSE CROSS chassis. The unique PHEV architecture consists of one front and one rear high-power electric motor, a large-capacity drive battery and a 2.4-liter MIVEC engine with a single-speed planetary gearbox, allowing for the quick, silent, yet powerful acceleration unique to electric vehicles.
For the PHEV variant, the system automatically selects from three driving modes to suit various conditions: EV, Series Hybrid or Parallel Hybrid. The traction battery can also be used as a reliable source of electricity for outdoor leisure or in an emergency as it supplies up to 1,500 watts of power from an on-board outlet. When the vehicle is fully charged and fueled, it can supply power to a general household for up to 10 days via the Vehicle-to-Home system. Carried over from the previous model, the ECLIPSE CROSS is also available with the company’s 1.5-liter MIVEC direct injection turbocharged four-cylinder engine. A thoroughly modern design, the MIVEC engine is all-aluminum for light weight, and perfectly balances the seemingly distinct priorities of power and efficiency. Using a compact turbocharger reduces fuel consumption but also minimizes turbo lag for driver-centric feel and performance, while the combination of direct fuel injection and turbocharging delivers greater efficiency at all roads and engine speeds. Paired with an eight-speed sports mode continuously variable transmission (CVT), the new ECLIPSE CROSS optimizes driving dynamics while also achieving low fuel consumption.
Confidence-Inspiring Driving Pleasure
MITSUBISHI MOTORS’ S-AWC system delivers stable handling and precise control, giving drivers confidence to conquer on-road conditions with ease. The springs in the front MacPherson strut and rear multi-link suspension have been finely tuned. Together with enlarged rear suspension absorbers, the ECLIPSE CROSS exerts the performance of S-AWC and greatly enhances maneuverability. Combining SUV versatility with bold, distinctive design, the ECLIPSE CROSS has won multiple global awards, including the Good Design Award in 2018 and the RJC Car of the Year in 2019.
