Page 16 - Irene Farm Villages Issue 1 2022

Motoring

mitsubishi eClipse Cross

1.5t gls

By ALAN ROSENMEyER

aving last experienced the Mitsubishi Eclipse around 400l, with the option of extending this by dropping
Cross at the SA launch just over two years ago, this the rear seats in a 60/40 split. The GLS spec gives you
Htest has been long awaited. At the launch, only 7 airbags, leather seats, an infotainment screen with
2l naturally aspirated models were available. In the interim, Android Auto and Apple Carplay, plus a Head-up display
the 1.5l turbo model was added to the range. that rises in front of the driver. The rear seat provides a
Whereas the 2l version was adequate in performance, 12V power socket that can be utilised for charging devices.
the excitement factor was lacking. I’m happy to say up My test was limited to urban driving with no real open-
front that the new turbo motor rectifies this issue. It may road driving, so the fuel economy of approximately 9l/100km
not be a sports car but, as a medium SUV, it now provides should be the worst that drivers will experience in general use.
performance that is far more enjoyable. The Eclipse is an anomaly in some ways, it’s priced closer
The motor delivers 110kW and 250Nm to the front wheels to many top spec smaller Crossover/SUVs yet is similar in
through a CVT automatic transmission. Like previous tests size to most medium SUVs. Although it offers most of the
of the Mitsubishi range, this is an excellent CVT and I luxuries, I would love to see a model with added safety
honestly believe that this type of transmission is well suited features like adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency
to a family type SUV. Driven in a relaxed manner, at which braking, blind-spot warning and cross-traffic warning
this car excels, the motor has reserves of power for cruising amongst other features. I believe that there is room for a
and overtaking when required. halo model in the range with all of this included.
The Eclipse Cross is deceptive in some ways, as it has As tested, the current price is R499 995, including a
excellent space in the rear, as well as a large boot measuring 5-year/90 000km service plan.

Click here for our full video review:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0Ec-U4MpynY

14 • Issue 1 2022 • The Villager