The 2019 Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross 4WD with its 1.5L turbo four gets 25 MPG combined. While this isn’t class-leading, it’s a reasonable figure for a small, all-wheel-drive crossover that provides decent utility and unique styling. People typically buy this vehicle for its affordability, a good warranty covering 5 years or 60,000 miles, and the added safety of all-wheel drive in areas with frequent snow and ice.

City and highway performance

The EPA combined rating is 25 MPG, but the city and highway numbers offer more detail. The city cycle mirrors the combined, at 25 MPG. The highway figure is slightly better, at 26 MPG. This small range shows the Eclipse Cross’s fuel efficiency is fairly consistent across different driving conditions, mainly due to the continuously variable transmission (CVT). Its smooth operation helps efficiency in both city stop-and-go and highway cruising.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2019 Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross 4WD at $1,750. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year with a mix of city and highway driving, and using the national average fuel price. Individual fuel costs will vary based on driving habits and local fuel prices, but this provides a standard benchmark for comparison with other vehicles. Remember that changing gas prices will affect what you pay.

Real-world expectations

The EPA provides standard testing, but real-world fuel economy can be different. Aggressive driving, heavy loads, and mountainous terrain will hurt fuel mileage. Smooth acceleration, consistent speeds, and regular maintenance can help you get the EPA estimates or even a little better. Even tire pressure can make a difference. Owners who track MPG may see better or worse numbers than the EPA estimates, but 25 MPG combined is a good figure to expect.

How it compares

The Eclipse Cross’s efficiency is about average in the crowded compact crossover segment. A Subaru Crosstrek with its standard 2.0L engine gets around 29 MPG combined, a noticeable advantage. The Mazda CX-5, a favorite among drivers, gets around 26 MPG combined with its base 2.5L engine, very close to the Eclipse Cross. The Nissan Rogue offers similar space and specs, with around 29 MPG combined for its front-wheel-drive version. These differences are important to buyers comparing overall value when considering purchase price, warranty, and running costs. See all Mitsubishi fuel economy data for brand comparisons, or examine ECLIPSE MPG across all years.

Tips to maximize efficiency

The Eclipse Cross’s 1.5L turbo engine works best with smooth acceleration. Avoid quick starts and stops; instead, gradually increase speed to save gas. The CVT is designed for efficiency, so driving smoothly will give you the best results.

Regular maintenance is important. Make sure your tires are inflated to the recommended pressure, which reduces rolling resistance and improves fuel economy. Schedule regular oil changes and keep the engine tuned for the best performance.

Reduce the use of air conditioning, especially on short trips. Air conditioning puts a load on the engine, which lowers fuel efficiency. When you can, use the fan or open the windows instead. This is especially helpful in cooler weather when you don’t need AC as often.

Plan your routes carefully. Avoiding traffic reduces stop-and-go driving, which uses more fuel. Use a navigation app to find the best route, even if it’s a bit longer.

Take out extra weight from the vehicle. The heavier the load, the more fuel the engine uses. Removing items you don’t need will free up space and improve efficiency.