The 2022 Eclipse Cross PHEV is not just another compact SUV. It’s a strategically designed plug-in hybrid that offers a unique combination of Mitsubishi’s legendary all-wheel-control expertise, zero-emissions daily driving, and a high level of standard equipment, especially in the fully-loaded trim.
1. Powertrain & Performance Benefits
Dual-Power Efficiency: Combines a 2.4L gasoline engine with two high-output electric motors.
Significant Electric-Only Range: Offers approximately 35-40 miles (55-65 km) of pure electric driving. This covers the vast majority of daily commutes with zero fuel consumption and zero tailpipe emissions.
Seamless Power Delivery: The electric motors provide instant torque for smooth, responsive city driving, while the gasoline engine acts as a generator and provides power for highway cruising.
Super All-Wheel Control (S-AWC): This is Mitsubishi’s crown jewel and a major differentiator.
Superior Traction & Stability: It’s not just a simple AWD system. S-AWC actively manages torque distribution between the front and rear wheels and incorporates Active Yaw Control to brake individual wheels, enhancing stability and grip in corners and on slippery surfaces.
Multiple Drive Modes: Includes Tarmac, Snow, and Gravel modes, allowing the driver to optimize performance for different conditions.
Multiple Driving Modes:
EV Priority Mode: Forces the vehicle to run on electricity until the battery is depleted.
Series Hybrid Mode: The engine acts as a generator to charge the battery while the electric motors drive the wheels, ideal for city traffic.
Parallel Hybrid Mode: The engine and motors work together for high-power demands like highway merging or steep climbs.
Battery Save Mode: Allows you to reserve battery charge for later use (e.g., saving it for zero-emission driving in a city center).
2. „Full Extras“ / High Trim Level Benefits
This is where the „Full Extras“ specification truly shines, adding luxury, convenience, and advanced safety.
Premium Interior & Comfort:
Heated Leather Seats: Often includes heated front and rear seats, a rarity in this class.
Dual-Zone Automatic Climate Control: Enhances cabin comfort for both driver and passenger.
Power Adjustable Driver’s Seat: Allows for a perfect driving position.
Panoramic Glass Roof: Opens up the cabin, making it feel more spacious and airy.
Advanced Technology & Infotainment:
High-Quality Audio System: Often a premium Rockford Fosgate® sound system for an immersive audio experience.
Head-Up Display (HUD): Projects key information (speed, navigation) onto the windshield, allowing the driver to keep their eyes on the road.
Smartphone Integration: Full Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility for seamless phone integration.
360-Degree Camera System: Provides a bird’s-eye view of the vehicle, making parking and maneuvering in tight spaces incredibly easy.
Comprehensive Safety Suite (Often branded as MI-PILOT or similar):
Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC): Maintains a set speed and distance from the car ahead, even in stop-and-go traffic.
Lane Keep Assist (LKA): Helps prevent unintentional lane drifting.
Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB): Detects potential collisions and can apply the brakes automatically.
Blind-Spot Warning with Lane Change Assist: Alerts you to vehicles in your blind spot and can help prevent a collision during a lane change.
Rear Cross-Traffic Alert: Warns of approaching traffic when reversing out of a parking space.
3. Financial & Practical Benefits
Lower Running Costs: Charging with electricity is significantly cheaper than refueling with gasoline for daily trips. Reduced brake wear due to regenerative braking.
Government Incentives: In many regions (e.g., UK, Europe, some US states), PHEVs qualify for substantial tax credits, rebates, or grants, lowering the initial purchase price.
Reduced Environmental Impact: For eco-conscious drivers, it offers a tangible way to reduce their carbon footprint without range anxiety associated with full EVs.
Versatile Charging: Can be charged using a standard household outlet (slow), a dedicated home wallbox (faster, ~3-5 hours for a full charge), or public charging stations.
4. Design & Practicality
Bold & Distinctive Styling: The Eclipse Cross has a unique, coupe-like SUV design that stands out from more conservative competitors like the Toyota RAV4 or Honda CR-V.
Practical Cargo Space: The split-folding „Easy Fold“ rear seats can be adjusted for cargo or passenger space, offering good utility despite the stylish roofline.
Potential Considerations (for a balanced view)
Cargo Space Compromise: The sloping roofline and battery placement can result in slightly less cargo space than some boxier rivals.
Infotainment System: Some reviewers find the standard infotainment interface to be less intuitive than systems from Hyundai/Kia or Mazda.
Powertrain Refinement: Under hard acceleration, the engine can become noisy as it works to power the vehicle and/or charge the battery.
Conclusion
The 2022 Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross PHEV „Full Extras“ is an excellent choice for a buyer who:
Wants the environmental and cost benefits of an EV for daily commuting but isn’t ready for a full-electric vehicle.
Values superior all-weather capability and traction provided by the advanced S-AWC system.
Desires a highly-equipped, comfortable, and tech-laden cabin without paying a luxury brand premium.
It successfully packages a thoughtful and efficient plug-in hybrid system with top-tier luxury and safety features into a stylish and capable SUV, making it a compelling and often overlooked option in the compact PHEV segment.