26 MPG combined won’t win any hypermiling awards. For the 2024 Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross ES 4WD, it’s a functional compromise buyers accept in exchange for all-wheel drive and the elevated driving position of a compact SUV. This isn’t a vehicle purchased for maximum fuel savings; it’s bought by those who prioritize all-weather capability and reasonable versatility in a value-oriented package.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the 2024 Eclipse Cross ES 4WD at 25 MPG in the city and 28 MPG on the highway. These figures reflect the 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine and its continuously variable transmission (CVT). The CVT, programmed with eight simulated gear ratios, optimizes fuel efficiency, sacrificing some driver engagement. City driving sees the engine working harder, especially during acceleration from stoplights, hence the slightly lower MPG. Highway cruising allows the engine to settle into its most efficient range, resulting in a modest improvement despite aerodynamic drag at higher speeds.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2024 Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross ES 4WD at $1,700. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using the national average fuel price at the time of calculation. Individual spending may fluctuate significantly, depending on driving habits, local fuel costs, and the proportion of city versus highway miles driven. While $1,700 is a benchmark for comparison, real-world spending will vary from driver to driver, making it a useful, but not definitive, metric.

Real-world expectations

EPA estimates provide a standardized baseline, but real-world fuel economy often differs. Don’t expect to consistently achieve the EPA’s 28 MPG highway figure during rush-hour commutes or on trips loaded with passengers and cargo. Also, stop-and-go city driving, especially during colder months, can drag the average below the EPA’s 25 MPG estimate. Most owners report numbers within a reasonable range of the EPA figures, acknowledging that individual driving styles and conditions heavily influence the final result. Check all Mitsubishi fuel economy data.

How it compares

The Eclipse Cross’s 26 MPG is near the bottom of its competitive set among AWD offerings. The Subaru Crosstrek, with its standard all-wheel drive, achieves up to 29 MPG combined with the 2.0-liter engine and CVT. The Honda HR-V, another popular choice, earns up to 28 MPG combined in its AWD configuration. The Mazda CX-5, often praised for its engaging driving dynamics, manages around 26 MPG combined with its base 2.5-liter engine and AWD. While the Eclipse Cross matches the CX-5, its competitors offer slightly better economy in the AWD trims. Buyers generally choose the Eclipse Cross because it offers a combination of price, features, and warranty, accepting a slight trade-off in fuel efficiency. Be sure to thoroughly research the ECLIPSE MPG across all years.

Tips to maximize efficiency

The 1.5-liter turbo engine in the Eclipse Cross is sensitive to driving style. Avoid aggressive acceleration and hard braking. Gentle throttle modulation will keep the turbocharger from spooling unnecessarily, reducing fuel consumption. Using cruise control on the highway can help maintain a consistent speed and optimize fuel economy on long trips.

Keep your tires properly inflated. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder and reducing fuel efficiency. Check your tire pressure regularly and inflate them to the recommended pressure listed on the sticker inside the driver’s side door.

Minimize idling. Leaving the engine running while stationary consumes fuel without adding any miles to the odometer. If you anticipate being stopped for more than a minute, it’s generally more efficient to turn off the engine.

Reduce unnecessary weight. Carrying extra cargo in the vehicle increases its overall weight, which in turn reduces fuel economy. Remove any unnecessary items from the trunk or cargo area to minimize the load on the engine.