26 MPG combined is an acceptable number for the 2023 Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross ES 4WD 1.5L 4-cyl, but it’s not exceptional. This combination of trim, drivetrain and engine is aimed at budget-conscious buyers who live in areas where all-wheel drive is needed for at least part of the year. They’re willing to accept average fuel economy for a lower price and better capability in snow or on slick roads. It prioritizes surefootedness and affordability over efficiency.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the 2023 Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross ES 4WD at 25 MPG in the city and 28 MPG on the highway. This small difference suggests consistent fuel consumption across different driving environments. The 1.5L turbocharged four-cylinder engine, paired with its continuously variable transmission (CVT), aims for smooth, linear power delivery. This tuning generally leads to more predictable fuel consumption patterns. These figures aren’t spectacular, but they reflect the demands of powering an all-wheel-drive system and the small engine working to move a vehicle of this size.

Annual fuel cost

According to the EPA, the estimated annual fuel cost for the 2023 Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross ES 4WD is $1,700. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. Individual costs will vary depending on driving habits and local fuel prices, but this provides a benchmark for potential owners to understand the ongoing expenses of running this vehicle. Careful drivers can improve upon this number, while those with a heavier foot will likely exceed it. The annual fuel cost reinforces that while the Eclipse Cross might be affordable to buy, it’s not the most economical to operate.

Real-world expectations

Official EPA estimates are useful for comparison, but real-world fuel economy often varies. Drivers can expect the Eclipse Cross ES 4WD to deliver figures close to the EPA’s estimates under normal driving conditions, but several factors affect the mileage. Aggressive acceleration, frequent stop-and-go traffic, prolonged idling, and extreme weather conditions can negatively affect fuel consumption. Likewise, maintaining proper tire inflation, performing routine maintenance, and adopting a gentle driving style can help achieve figures closer to the 28 MPG highway rating, especially on longer trips. Before making any decisions, check ECLIPSE MPG across all years to see how they stack up.

How it compares

The Eclipse Cross ES 4WD competes in a crowded segment. The Subaru Crosstrek, with its standard all-wheel drive, offers slightly better fuel economy at an EPA-estimated 29 MPG combined. However, the Crosstrek can feel underpowered to some drivers. The Mazda CX-5, known for its engaging driving dynamics, achieves around 26 MPG combined in its all-wheel-drive configurations, similar to the Eclipse Cross. The Nissan Rogue, a popular choice in the compact SUV segment, delivers a more impressive 30 MPG combined with its front-wheel-drive configuration, but drops slightly with all-wheel drive. These comparisons illustrate that while the Eclipse Cross isn’t the most fuel-efficient option, it holds its own against some of its competitors, particularly considering its readily available all-wheel drive.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Gentle acceleration is crucial in the Eclipse Cross. The 1.5-liter turbocharged engine can become thirsty when pushed hard. Avoid aggressive starts and maintain a smooth, steady pace to stay within its most efficient operating range.

Tire pressure plays a significant role in fuel economy. Check your tire pressures regularly and inflate them to the manufacturer’s recommended level, usually found on a sticker inside the driver’s side door. Underinflated tires create more rolling resistance, which reduces fuel efficiency.

Minimize idling time. Idling consumes fuel without covering any distance. If you anticipate waiting for more than a minute, switch off the engine. Modern engines are designed to restart quickly and efficiently, making it more economical to turn them off rather than let them idle.

Regular maintenance is essential for optimal fuel economy. Ensure your engine gets routine oil changes and that the air filter is clean. A well-maintained engine operates more efficiently, burning fuel more completely and reducing emissions. Check all Mitsubishi fuel economy data to see if there’s anything more you can do.

Use cruise control on the highway whenever possible. Maintaining a consistent speed helps avoid unnecessary acceleration and deceleration, contributing to better fuel economy. Cruise control is especially effective on relatively flat roads with minimal traffic when it can hold a steady setting for miles at a time.