The Eclipse Cross plug-in hybrid (PHEV) has a special launch price of $49,990 (plus on-road costs), says Mitsubishi Motors New Zealand in announcing its June arrival.
It’s built on the same second-generation drivetrain as the best-selling Outlander PHEV and delivers what MMNZ marketing and corporate affairs head Reece Congdon describes as “the perfect cross between fuel-free, around-town driving and high-performance, open-road adventure”.
The Eclipse Cross PHEV offers up to 55km electric range and 650km combined range, with 75% less CO2 emissions than the petrol version.
“Eclipse Cross occupies a distinct position in our range for those who want the style, value and capability of a smaller SUV without the family-sized space of Outlander,” Congdon says.
“We are excited to introduce a PHEV option in this segment for the increasing number of drivers for whom more sustainable transport solutions are a key consideration.”
The drivetrain is the same 2.4L twin electric motor S-AWC configuration found in the Outlander PHEV – a system proven over seven years on New Zealand roads.
That’s the same combined electric motor output of 130kW in a smaller package, powered by a high-capacity 13.8kWh lithium-ion battery and supported by a 94kW/199Nm 2.4L engine.
In all modes, the motors deliver drive force to each axle for a quiet and smooth driving experience across the board, with no shift shock when the engine kicks in.
In Series Hybrid Mode the engine is only used to generate electric power, while in Parallel Hybrid Mode it is assisted by the motor.
To make life even easier for drivers, the PHEV system automatically selects the most efficient drive mode based on the situation for dynamic and secure performance at every turn.
More than 250 fast charging stations around the country mean the PHEV can recharge to 80% in about 25 minutes and broadens the outlook for PHEV owners wanting to go further in pure electric mode.
Charging can also be done via a household outlet in about seven hours, or in around four hours using Mode 3 charging.
Body-colour bumpers and side skirts on the VRX, and silver front and rear lower garnishes on the premium XLS model help the Eclipse Cross PHEV stand out.
Both variants sport an alloy wheel design with fuel-efficient Bridgestone Ecopia rubber on the rims.
Inside XLS models, new high-grade fabric upholstery with leather trim features, along with heated front seats and, in the VRX model, a heated steering wheel, well-timed for the winter.
Pre-heating, defrosting or cooling can be initiated via a smartphone app for added convenience, as can the charging timer.
Both models have all the safety gear, plus an eight-inch smartphone link display audio system to enable hands-free mobile connectivity and entertainment, along with handy PHEV status screens and navigation.
The Eclipse Cross PHEV is backed by Mitsubishi’s 10-year Diamond Advantage warranty, 160,000km powertrain warranty, plus an eight year/160,000km li-ion battery warranty.
