- Mitsubishi is reviving the Eclipse name for a fully electric crossover.
- Unique fascias and lighting set it apart from its Nissan sibling.
- Mitsubishi plans to launch the new model in North America this fall.
The Eclipse name keeps finding new homes that have nothing to do with the sport coupe sold from 1989 to 2011. First it landed on the Eclipse Cross crossover, and now Mitsubishi has confirmed a new Eclipse Sportback EV bound for North America as a 2027 model in the back half of this year. Beneath that Triple Diamond badge sits nothing more than a lightly reskinned new-generation Nissan Leaf, so anyone holding out for a true heir to the original should brace for disappointment.
Visually, most people will see a Leaf with Mitsubishi emblems but the Eclipse Sportback actually has a few redesigned bits. Starting with the front end, the bumper features a different grille and horizontal intakes with aerodynamic features. Despite the official claims, the LED headlights look very similar to the Nissan units but they are not connected by a black trim.
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The profile is identical, retaining the original crossover fastback silhouette albeit with fresh EV emblems on the front doors as well as chrome details around the windows and on the three-spoke 18-inch aero wheel covers of the Leaf S+.
At the back, Mitsubishi designers limited their input on a sculpted rear bumper, a new tailgate without the glossy black trim of the Nissan twin, and custom LED taillight graphics. Naturally, the Eclipse Cross won’t be getting the Z-inspired “3D holographic LEDs” of the flagship Nissan Leaf Platinum+ trim.
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The company has yet to show photos of the interior but don’t expect big changes other than the Mitsubishi emblem on the steering wheel. The Leaf is available with dual screens measuring 12.3 or 14.3 inches depending on the trim. It remains to be seen whether the Mitsubishi version will get the dimming panoramic electrochromic roof and the sophisticated Bose Personal audio system with speakers mounted on the headrests.
Under the skin, the Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross utilizes the CMF-EV architecture, also used by the Nissan Leaf and Ariya. Technical specifications will be announced on a later date, but the Leaf offers the option between 52 kWh and 75 kWh battery packs and comes fitted with a single electric motor producing 174 hp (130 kW / 176 PS) or 214 hp (160 kW / 218 PS). The EPA range figure is up to 303 miles (488 km).
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Mitsubishi promised to reveal more information and pricing in the near future ahead of the upcoming market launch. Furthermore, the company has confirmed that the Eclipse Sportback will be joined by an “all-new rugged, off-road derivative of the Outlander SUV” in early 2027, followed by a new or significantly revised vehicle each year until 2030.
