You’ll want to skip the 2018 and 2019 Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross models due to documented reliability concerns and design flaws that plagued these initial years. The 2018 launch suffered from transmission issues, subpar interior quality, and inadequate safety features. While 2019 showed marginal improvements, it didn’t resolve fundamental problems. The 2020 model year marked a significant turnaround with enhanced reliability and performance upgrades. Your best value proposition comes from 2022 and newer models, where mid-generation refinements delivered substantial improvements that make ownership considerably more rewarding.
The Problematic 2018 Model Year: Why It Tops the Avoid List
When Mitsubishi launched the Eclipse Cross in 2018, the model immediately established itself as the most problematic year in the vehicle’s lineup. You’ll find this year consistently featured on industry “years to avoid” lists, and for good reason. The 2018 issues span multiple critical systems, including transmission problems manifesting at just 5,000 miles, with owners reporting lunging, lagging, and rough shifts between gears.
Customer feedback reveals electrical system failures, engine management defects requiring frequent software updates, and significant brake concerns that prompted a major recall affecting ABS and stability control systems. NHTSA data documents complaints across seven distinct categories, while cracked windshields appeared at an average of 4,000 miles. Later model years demonstrate substantial improvements in reliability. CarComplaints.com publishes complaint data based on submissions from site visitors, providing transparency in identifying these recurring defects.
2019 Eclipse Cross: A Marginal Improvement Still Worth Skipping
Several cosmetic refinements distinguish the 2019 Eclipse Cross from its troubled predecessor, but these surface-level enhancements don’t resolve the fundamental reliability concerns that make this model year problematic. You’ll encounter persistent design flaws including malfunctioning airbag sensors, steering responsiveness issues, and inadequate headlight performance. The brake system continues exhibiting ABS warning lights and inconsistent pedal feel, while electrical problems plague the fuel gauge and infotainment system. Safety concerns extend beyond component failures—a documented recall addressed collision mitigation software that could apply brakes longer than necessary. The 1.5-liter turbocharged engine delivers adequate but unexciting performance, while the CVT transmission receives mixed reviews. The 2019 model does benefit from added safety features compared to the 2018 version, though these improvements prove insufficient given the persistent underlying problems. Similar to how the 2010 through 2014 Mazda 3 models showed persistent mechanical and electrical issues that led to costly repairs, the 2019 Eclipse Cross continues to demonstrate reliability concerns that affect long-term ownership satisfaction. With medium risk for major repairs around 84,000-96,000 miles and pricing above more reliable competitors like the Mazda CX-3 and Subaru Crosstrek, you’re better off avoiding this model year.
The 2020 Turnaround: When the Eclipse Cross Became Reliable
The 2020 Eclipse Cross represents a significant departure from its predecessor’s reliability problems, earning Consumer Reports’ average reliability prediction—a notable achievement after the 2018 and 2019 models’ documented failures. The 2020 improvements extended beyond mechanical refinements to include enhanced safety features across trim levels and expanded drivetrain options with 2WD availability.
You’ll find the reliability ratings reflected in consumer satisfaction, with 77% of owners recommending the vehicle and an overall 4.2/5 rating. The NHTSA awarded it five stars, while the SEL trim earned IIHS Top Safety Pick designation. While some owners still criticize fuel economy and acceleration performance, the significant reduction in mechanical complaints marks 2020 as the turning point where Mitsubishi finally delivered a dependable compact crossover worth considering. Mitsubishi backed this reliability turnaround with a robust 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty, demonstrating confidence in the vehicle’s improved dependability.
Mid-Generation Updates That Made 2022 the Sweet Spot
After Mitsubishi established baseline reliability with the 2020 model, the company invested substantial engineering resources into the 2022 Eclipse Cross’s mid-generation refresh, transforming it from a merely dependable option into the lineup’s most compelling offering. The 2022 improvements included a thorough exterior redesign that extended overall length by five inches to 178.9 inches, enhancing proportions while increasing cargo capacity. Design enhancements featured revised Dynamic Shield elements, full-width taillights, and thin xenon headlamps that elevated visual presence. Interior refinements introduced simulated suede upholstery and a sophisticated light gray-black color scheme. Engineers retuned the rear suspension with larger shock shafts and double vibration insulators, substantially improving ride quality. Advanced safety features became standard across most trims, while seven new exterior colors expanded customization options—collectively establishing 2022 as the generation’s ideal purchase point. The Eclipse Cross earned a five-star overall safety rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, reinforcing its position as a well-rounded vehicle in the competitive crossover segment.
Recent Model Years: What 2024 and 2025 Bring to the Table
While Mitsubishi discontinued the Eclipse Cross in the U.S. market after 2024, understanding both final model years reveals minimal evolutionary changes that won’t greatly impact your buying decision. The 2024 features include the standard 1.5L turbo engine delivering 152 hp, adaptive cruise control on SE trims, and Mitsubishi Connect services with extensive trial periods. The 2025 enhancements primarily add a rear-seat alert system and rear USB ports—incremental safety and convenience upgrades rather than transformative improvements. Both years maintain identical powertrain specifications, fuel economy ratings around 25-27 MPG combined, and similar pricing structures with approximately $200 separation in base MSRP. The mechanical experience remains unchanged: comfort-tuned suspension, light steering, and moderate performance with 8.6-second 0-60 times. The 2025 model comes backed by a comprehensive 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty, offering substantial long-term coverage. Neither year offers compelling advantages over the other.
Smart Buying Strategy: Which Years Offer the Best Value
Smart Eclipse Cross purchasing hinges on targeting the 2020-2022 model years, where Mitsubishi resolved early production issues and established a stable reliability track record. These models demonstrate considerably reduced complaint rates compared to 2018 variants, with minimal reported issues despite varying sales volumes. The 2022 model year represents the best choice, having addressed nearly all previous concerns while maintaining affordable pricing relative to competitors.
You’ll benefit from Mitsubishi’s all-encompassing warranty coverage across these years, which mitigates ownership risk and reduces maintenance costs. The robust materials used in construction guarantee long-term durability and value retention. All Eclipse Cross models come equipped with standard all-wheel drive, providing enhanced traction and stability across various driving conditions. When evaluating options, prioritize these later years over discounted 2018-2019 models—the incremental cost difference proves worthwhile given the documented reliability improvements and enhanced refinement levels achieved through three generations of development.
