The 2018 Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross ES 2WD 1.5L 4-cyl achieves 27 MPG combined. It’s a middle-of-the-road efficiency for a stylish, compact crossover aimed at budget-conscious urban dwellers and young families who prioritize unique styling and features over ultimate fuel savings. These buyers accept the Eclipse Cross’s fuel economy because it balances practicality with distinctive looks and a manageable monthly payment. They aren’t hypermilers, but they appreciate that the Eclipse Cross sips fuel reasonably well compared to larger, thirstier SUVs.

City and highway performance

The 2018 Eclipse Cross ES 2WD gets an EPA-estimated 26 MPG in the city and 29 MPG on the highway. This split reveals a vehicle that’s more at home in urban environments than on cross-country trips. The turbocharged 1.5L engine provides adequate pep for merging into traffic and darting around town, where stop-and-go driving amplifies the efficiency benefits of its relatively small displacement.

The highway figure, while acceptable, shows the engine working harder at higher speeds to overcome aerodynamic drag. If you frequently travel with a full load of passengers or cargo, or against strong headwinds, expect slightly lower highway numbers.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2018 Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross ES 2WD at $1,600. This calculation assumes 15,000 miles per year and national average fuel prices for regular gasoline.

The actual amount any driver spends will vary based on their driving habits, the type of roads they travel, and local fuel prices. Aggressive driving or consistently higher fuel costs can easily push that $1,600 figure higher. It’s a useful benchmark, but not a guarantee.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA estimates provide a standardized comparison, real-world mileage often differs. Owners of the 2018 Eclipse Cross ES 2WD generally report figures close to the EPA estimates. Some see slightly lower numbers, especially in colder climates or with frequent short trips. Consistent highway driving at moderate speeds tends to yield the best real-world results, closely mirroring the EPA’s 29 MPG rating.

As expected, aggressive acceleration and hard braking will reduce fuel economy. Pay attention to your driving style and adjust accordingly to maximize efficiency. Also consider that factors like tire pressure and vehicle maintenance influence gas mileage. Use all Mitsubishi fuel economy data to compare to other vehicles in the lineup.

How it compares

Compared to other compact crossovers in 2018, the Eclipse Cross’s 27 MPG combined rating places it competitively. The front-wheel drive Honda CR-V achieved 28 MPG combined. The Toyota RAV4 LE with front-wheel drive also posted 26 MPG combined. The Nissan Rogue S FWD earned 29 MPG combined.

Buyers in this segment would be hard-pressed to find a significantly more fuel-efficient choice unless they want a hybrid. For buyers on a strict budget, that small difference in MPG must be weighed against initial purchase price and overall cost of ownership. View ECLIPSE MPG across all years. The all-wheel drive Eclipse Cross models will have a lower MPG.

Tips to maximize efficiency

The Eclipse Cross benefits from smooth and steady acceleration. The 1.5L turbo works best with a gentle right foot, especially from a standstill. Avoid “jackrabbit” starts and anticipate traffic flow to maintain momentum and reduce the need for frequent braking. This saves fuel and contributes to a more relaxed driving experience.

The continuously variable transmission (CVT) in the Eclipse Cross is designed to optimize fuel efficiency. Allow it to do its job by avoiding sudden bursts of acceleration, which can cause the engine to rev unnecessarily. Trust the CVT to find the optimal ratio for the driving conditions, and resist the urge to manually shift unless absolutely necessary.

Ensure your tires are properly inflated to the recommended pressure, which is usually found on a sticker inside the driver’s side door frame. Underinflated tires create more rolling resistance, which reduces fuel economy. Check your tire pressure regularly, especially during temperature changes, since pressure can fluctuate.

Reduce unnecessary weight in the vehicle. Remove any items you don’t need, as extra weight requires the engine to work harder, leading to increased fuel consumption. A clean and uncluttered car is also more efficient.

Consider using cruise control on the highway when conditions allow. Maintaining a consistent speed helps to optimize fuel economy by minimizing fluctuations in engine RPM. This is effective on long, flat stretches of road where you can set the cruise control and let the vehicle maintain a steady pace.