SUV crossover makes world debut down under

Kiwis will be among the first in the world to get their hands on the new Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross.

The SUV crossover is 140mm longer than the previous model and offers 405 litres of cargo space, which is 71 litres – or 19 per cent – more than its predecessor.

Other changes for the 2021 model include a new headlamp arrangement, a new black grille, a honeycomb centre bumper and new 18-inch alloy wheels.

At the rear, the split-window design makes way for a single window and roof spoiler.

On the inside is a new eight-inch Smartphone Link Display Audio system, positioned closer to the driver for easy-reach operation. 

Forward collision mitigation remains standard across the range, with blind spot warning, rear cross traffic alert and lane change assist introduced to the XLS for improved safety.

A plug-in hybrid vehicle (PHEV) version will follow in 2021 and will use a modified version of the twin-motor system in the Mitsubishi Outlander.

Stock is due to start arriving in New Zealand and Australia from late November, with the two countries the first to debut the Eclipse Cross. Japan and North American markets will be the next to receive the vehicle.

Reece Congdon, head of marketing and corporate affairs at Mitsubishi Motors NZ, says: “We are very pleased to be able to give Kiwi motorists the chance to be among the first in the world to get behind the wheel of this exciting new model. 

“New Zealand has a very strong market in this class. Competition is high and we are convinced that Kiwis will find plenty to satisfy their demands in the newly imagined Eclipse Cross.”