Source: EPA FuelEconomy.gov & manufacturer data. Figures reflect base trim; actual specs vary by trim level.
About the 2021 Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross
With an overall Carivo score of 6.9/10, the 2021 Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross earns a Good rating among the suvs we've scored. Its strongest dimension is Safety at 8.0/10, while Technology at 6.2/10 is where it trails the competition most noticeably. It's a capable but unexceptional suv — stronger alternatives exist if you're willing to shop the segment carefully.
Reliability and safety are the two dimensions that matter most for long-term ownership costs. We rate reliability at 6.7/10 — below the segment average in our scoring. Budget for potentially higher maintenance costs and check the recall record below before buying. On safety it earns 8.0/10: respectable, if not class-leading — several competitors bundle more driver-assist tech as standard. Check your trim's official ratings at nhtsa.gov.
Performance at 6.2/10 is a genuine liability and a score that should factor heavily into any buying decision. The powertrain and chassis dynamics trail class rivals by a meaningful margin — don't overlook it. Technology scores 6.2/10 — the infotainment and driver-assist features feel dated against current-generation rivals. This is worth weighing if you prioritize connected features or modern safety tech.
Priced from $26,107–$35,120, 25 MPG, seating 5, the Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross sits in the mid-market bracket of the suv segment. Value lands at 7.5/10 — you get what you pay for, no more and no less, with a few rivals offering slightly better per-dollar returns. At 5 years old, it's worth checking whether a newer generation or refresh has addressed any weaker dimensions — compare it to the current model year before buying.
Bottom line: There's a case for the 2021 Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross, but it needs the right buyer. Its reliability and performance and technology scores trail the class, and several higher-rated rivals sell for similar money — comparison-shop before committing.
Carivo scores are our own editorial assessment, informed by NHTSA safety and recall records, EPA fuel-economy figures, and manufacturer-published specifications. Scores are reviewed periodically and updated when new data becomes available. See our full methodology →
How It Ranks Among SUVs
The 2021 Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross ranks #2137 of 2454 suvs in the Carivo database — better than 13% of the segment. Its 6.9/10 overall score is 0.5 points below the segment average of 7.4/10. Its $26,107 starting price undercuts the segment's median of $36,079 by about 28%.
Varies widely by driver and state — always quote the exact trim before buying
We only print costs we can compute from sourced data (EPA fuel economy, NHTSA recalls). We don't estimate maintenance or depreciation — anyone who gives you one number for those is guessing.
Which Eclipse Cross Year Should You Buy?
Smart-money pick: the 2018 Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross scores 6.7/10 — within striking distance of the 2021's 6.9 — and starts roughly $2,500 lower. If you don't need the newest model year, that's money better spent on a higher trim or kept in your pocket.
Strong safety ratings from NHTSA and independent testers
Good overall value; holds its own against pricier alternatives in the segment
Versatile body style handles daily commuting and weekend adventures equally well
✗ Where it falls short
Reliability scores are mid-pack; some owners report higher-than-expected maintenance needs
Performance is a genuine liability — well below class rivals and worth factoring into any decision
Infotainment and tech features feel dated compared to newer rivals in this segment
Common Questions — 2021 Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross
Is the 2021 Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross reliable?
We rate the 2021 Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross's reliability 6.7/10 — below the segment average, so budget for higher maintenance.
Is the 2021 Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross worth buying?
It scores 6.9/10 overall, ranking #2137 of 2454 suvs in our database (better than 13% of the segment). Stronger-scoring alternatives exist at similar prices — use our compare tool before committing.
How much does the 2021 Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross cost?
The 2021 Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross starts at $26,107 and ranges up to $35,120 across trims (MSRP when new). At 25 MPG, expect roughly $2,100/year in fuel at 15,000 miles/year.
Which Eclipse Cross years should you avoid?
No standout weak years: across the 9 Eclipse Cross model years we've scored, every year lands within half a point of the best (7.1/10). Pick on price and condition rather than year.
Owner Essentials — Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross
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More Mitsubishi Reviews
Explore the full lineup of Mitsubishi models scored by Carivo — ranked by overall score across reliability, safety, value, performance, and technology.
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