26 MPG combined isn’t going to win any hypermiling competitions, but for the 2019 Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross 2WD 1.5L, it’s perfectly adequate. It’s not trying to be a Prius; it’s a stylish, affordable compact SUV aimed at urban dwellers who prioritize value and practicality over outright fuel efficiency. The Eclipse Cross, in this configuration, caters to buyers who want the elevated seating position and cargo flexibility of an SUV without breaking the bank at the dealership or the gas pump.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates place the Eclipse Cross 2WD at 25 MPG in the city and 28 MPG on the highway. These figures reflect the engine’s characteristics and the efficiency of the continuously variable transmission (CVT). The 1.5L turbocharged four-cylinder provides decent low-end torque for city driving, allowing you to dart through traffic without excessive throttle input. The highway MPG is reasonable for its class and powertrain, though drivers should be aware that extended periods at higher speeds can negatively impact fuel consumption due to the CVT’s programming and the vehicle’s aerodynamics.

Annual fuel cost

According to the EPA, the estimated annual fuel cost for the 2019 Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross 2WD 1.5L is $1,700. This figure assumes 15,000 miles of driving per year, using the national average fuel price at the time of calculation. Individual fuel costs may vary depending on driving habits, local fuel prices, and the percentage of city versus highway driving. If you live in an area with higher fuel costs or drive significantly more than 15,000 miles annually, you can expect to pay more than the stated $1,700.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA estimates provide a good baseline, real-world fuel economy can differ. The driving style plays a significant role. Aggressive acceleration and hard braking will lower fuel economy. Carrying heavy loads or frequently using the air conditioning system can also negatively impact the MPG. The 1.5-liter turbo engine needs to be worked to get the Eclipse Cross moving swiftly, which can decrease fuel economy if you are constantly pushing it. With mindful driving, achieving the stated EPA numbers is entirely realistic; exceeding them is also possible, particularly in favorable conditions.

How it compares

The Eclipse Cross’s fuel economy sits squarely in the middle of its competitive set. The Honda HR-V, for example, achieves around 28 MPG combined in its 2WD configuration, offering a slight advantage. The Mazda CX-5 with its naturally aspirated engine gets around 26 MPG combined, making it about equal. A Nissan Kicks, which is a smaller vehicle, achieves approximately 31 MPG combined, a strong choice if fuel economy is a top priority. These differences, while seemingly small, can add up over the long term, so understanding your priorities is essential when cross-shopping. You can review all Mitsubishi fuel economy data to see how the Eclipse Cross fits within the brand’s overall lineup, as well as research ECLIPSE MPG across all years.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Gentle acceleration will save fuel. The Eclipse Cross’s 1.5L turbo doesn’t need to be pushed hard to maintain speed in most conditions, especially in urban environments. Avoid sudden, jerky acceleration and braking, as these actions waste fuel and increase wear and tear on your vehicle.

Maintain proper tire inflation. Underinflated tires create more rolling resistance, making your engine work harder and using more fuel. Check your tire pressure regularly and inflate them to the recommended level listed on the driver’s side doorjamb. A simple tire pressure gauge will save you money over the long run.

Reduce unnecessary weight. Carrying extra weight in your vehicle reduces fuel economy. Remove any unnecessary items from your trunk or cargo area that aren’t needed on a daily basis.

Every little bit helps.

Minimize idling. Modern engines don’t need to “warm up” for extended periods. Excessive idling wastes fuel. If you’re stopped for more than a minute, it’s generally more efficient to turn off the engine. The stop-start system included on higher trims can help with this.

Plan your routes strategically. Reduce the amount of stop-and-go involved with efficient route planning. Avoiding rush-hour traffic, using routes with fewer traffic lights, and combining errands can significantly improve fuel efficiency for the Eclipse Cross, a vehicle that is usually used for errands and not long trips.