
The Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross is a manual transmission. Taking the 2021 Eclipse Cross as an example, its body dimensions are: length 4405mm, width 1805mm, height 1685mm, wheelbase 2670mm, fuel tank capacity 63l, and the body structure is a 5-door 5-seat SUV. The 2021 Eclipse Cross is equipped with a 1.5T turbocharged engine, with a maximum power of 125kW and a maximum torque of 250Nm, matched with a 6-speed manual transmission. It adopts a front suspension type of MacPherson independent suspension and a rear suspension type of multi-link independent suspension, with tire specifications of 215/70R16.

As a long-time fan of Japanese cars, I've checked the configurations of the Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross and found that it mainly offers CVT automatic transmission options. Manual transmissions were available in some early 2018 or 2019 models, such as in the European market, but they were very rare. Nowadays, the new models are almost exclusively automatic. This is mainly because automatic transmissions are more convenient for city driving, reducing the hassle of gear shifting, and they also offer better overall fuel efficiency. Although manual transmissions can provide a more direct driving experience, Mitsubishi has now focused on smart technologies, where intelligent assistance systems pair more harmoniously with automatic transmissions. If you insist on a manual transmission, I recommend checking the used car market or contacting specific dealers, but keep in mind that options are limited, and it's best to visit a physical store to personally test the configuration sheet. The trend with modern SUVs is shifting toward automatics to cater to the public's preference for convenience and environmental friendliness, which I think is quite reasonable for everyday drivers.

I've driven the Eclipse Cross for several years with an automatic transmission. From daily experience, manual versions are usually only found in base models like the entry-level trim, but they are rarely available in actual sales. Manual transmissions have a more complex structure and potentially higher maintenance costs, especially when dealing with traffic congestion—stepping on the clutch can be exhausting. Modern car manufacturers prefer automatic CVTs for their smoothness and reliability, as they integrate better with electronic systems for optimized power output. If you're considering buying a new car, you're likely to get an automatic. The used market might still have older manual models. I recommend checking dealer inventory lists rather than just relying on ads—actual demand drives market changes, and Mitsubishi is also rolling out new energy versions now.

In frontline automotive sales experience, the Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross is almost exclusively equipped with automatic transmissions, with manual versions becoming a thing of the past – primarily offered in certain special markets like the Middle East or Southeast Asia for first-generation models. The mainstream choice is CVT, which aligns with cost-saving measures and modern driving habits, with customer feedback praising its quiet operation and fuel efficiency. While the manual version appeals to a niche group of enthusiasts, scarce inventory makes it difficult to order. We recommend prioritizing automatic models to avoid extended wait times. When considering overall vehicle performance, automatic transmissions support more flexible road assistance features, which is a significant plus.

I often see the Eclipse Cross coming in for repairs, with automatic transmissions accounting for over 99% of cases, while manual transmission instances are very rare. Technically speaking, although the manual structure is simpler, its failure points such as clutch wear do not align with the current trend of automotive intelligence. Mitsubishi's shift to automatic is aimed at simplifying driving and reducing after-sales issues, especially since SUVs focus on comfort. If you check the vehicle manual, it will indicate that the main model is CVT, but some older models may be exceptions. When choosing a car, considering long-term usage and maintenance costs, automatics are more worry-free.


