Battle of the rookies: the all-new 2018 Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross versus the all-new 2018 Toyota C-HR

In case you missed the memo, Mitsubishi brought a new vehicle to the 2018 lineup: the Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross. No, this isn't a coupe like the retired Eclipse from yesteryear. Instead, Mitsubishi revitalized the nameplate and developed a crossover model, which makes sense due to the body style's popularity in the American market.

Today, we at South Suburban Mitsubishi are placing the all-new 2018 Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross next to the 2018 Toyota C-HR. The C-HR is also brand-new to the Toyota lineup for 2018, so let's see how these rookies compete on the Tinley Park pavement.

Engine & Performance

Right out of the gate the Eclipse Cross flexes its muscle against the C-HR. Our competitor has a turbocharged 1.5L engine with 152 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque. The transmission is a CVT and when properly equipped it can tow up to 1,500 pounds. You'll also feel confident in all driving conditions thanks to standard All-Wheel Control on all trims except for the base which comes as a FWD, though there is a AWC option.

The C-HR lags in the engine department. Its 2.0L isn't turbocharged and it only has 144 horsepower and 130 lb-ft of torque. Unlike the Eclipse Cross the C-HR has no towing capacity and shockingly no option for all-wheel control. Sure, it may have a "sportier" and more aggressive look than the Eclipse Cross, but what's the point if it cannot truly keep up when driving in Chicago?

Safety Features

All Eclipse Cross models come with a standard rearview camera as a convenience and safety aid. The top two trims have standard Blind Spot Monitoring with Rear Cross Traffic Alert and Lane Change Assist. With those trims you can also get a package with Automatic High Beam, Forwarding Collision Mitigation, Lane Departure Warning, and Adaptive Cruise Control. If you're big on having advanced safety features, it is possible if you're able to go with a higher trim and pay extra for the package.

Admittedly, Toyota really stands out in the market because so many on its models come equipped with the Toyota Safety Sense package. Even on the base trim the C-HR gets: Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist, Automatic High Beams, Pre-Collision Alert with Pedestrian Detection, and Dynamic Radar Cruise Control. The second trim has Blind Spot Monitoring and Rear Cross-Traffic alerts.  The C-HR is technically the technological safety winner in this section, though we do like to remind customers that advanced safety features are no replacement for proper motor skills and habits whether you're driving in laidback Chicago Heights or on the highway!

Convenience Technology

Both crossovers have a large 7-inch touchscreen and Bluetooth capabilities. That said, Toyota has been notorious for being slow to adopt Apple CarPlay™ and Android Auto™ technology. Currently, only one model (the Avalon) has it and it's uncertain if/when other models will get the upgrade. Fortunately for those interested in the Eclipse Cross, all trims minus the base will be able to pair their iPhones and Androids and get the familiar icons and layout on the screen.

The Eclipse Cross also has some class-above features for at techier feel. The top trim has a head-up display that gives you cruise control, speed, and safety reminders. There's also a touchpad to control the touchscreen. Pretty snazzy.

Trim Selection & Refinement

With the Eclipse Cross you can choose from ES, ES S-AWC, LE S-AWC, SE AWC, and SEL S-AWC trims and many packages.  The C-HR only has two trims: XLE and XLE Premium. The only package either C-HR has is a paint-job upgrade. The Eclipse Cross also has standard leather seats and panoramic moonroof on the top trim; neither is even available on the C-HR. If you're a driver from Park Heights who wants those creature comforts when you're behind the wheel, you'll find more on our preferred model.

The C-HR might beat out the Eclipse Cross if you're looking for advanced safety technologies without a premium price tag, but when it comes to power, convenience technology, and refinement, the Eclipse Cross is the clear winner. To see how great this all-new vehicle is, stop into our dealership this week for a test drive!