Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross I facelift (GK) (2021 – 2025)

Reliability score : 8.6/10

The Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross Phase 2 (Facelift, code GK), introduced in late 2020 for the 2021 model year, corrects the main aesthetic flaw of the first phase: the split rear window. Lengthened by 14 cm, it offers a larger trunk and a more consensual design. This facelift mainly marks the arrival of the plug-in hybrid (PHEV) powertrain inherited from the Outlander, which becomes the only offering in many European markets. Elsewhere (North America, Oceania, Asia), the gasoline engines (1.5 Turbo and naturally aspirated 2.0) remain in the catalog. It is a compact SUV with an atypical positioning, relying on proven (even rustic) mechanical reliability, an excellent S-AWC AWD system, but penalized by an aging interior and pure gasoline fuel consumption above the category average. Overall relia

✅ Strengths

Exceptional overall mechanical reliability (very robust gasoline and PHEV engines)
S-AWC (Super-All Wheel Control) AWD system among the best in the segment
Corrected rear design and increased trunk volume (+14 cm of overhang)
Often very long manufacturer warranty (up to 10 years / 160,000 km depending on markets)
Dual injection on the 1.5 Turbo preventing valve fouling

⚠️ Weaknesses

High fuel consumption on gasoline engines (1.5T and 2.0)
CVT gearbox mandatory on gasoline versions, generating a slipping effect under hard acceleration
Dated interior presentation and infotainment system lagging behind the competition
Modest electric range of the PHEV (around 35-40 km real-world)
Soundproofing could be improved at high speeds

🎯 Verdict

The Eclipse Cross Phase 2 is a pragmatic and reassuring choice. If you are looking for the latest onboard technologies, giant screens, or record fuel consumption in pure gasoline, look elsewhere. On the other hand, if your absolute priority is long-term reliability, this SUV is an excellent option. The 1.5 Turbo gasoline engine is very well designed (dual injection is a major asset for longevity) and the S-AWC AWD system is formidable in winter conditions. In Europe, the PHEV version is a very safe used purchase, provided you check the battery condition and charge daily.