The 2025 Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross SE with Super All-Wheel Control (S-AWC) enters the 2026 market as a value-driven compact SUV, balancing advanced traction technology with a mid-tier feature set. Priced at approximately $29,095 MSRP, this specific trim features a 1.5-liter turbocharged engine, 18-inch alloy wheels, and a sophisticated integrated vehicle dynamics control system.
The Eclipse Cross occupies a unique niche within the subcompact and compact crossover segments. While many competitors require expensive upgrades to access premium safety features or advanced all-wheel-drive systems, Mitsubishi has standardized its S-AWC technology across all 2025 trims. The SE (Special Edition) trim, in particular, serves as the "sweet spot" for many buyers in 2026, offering a significant jump in interior refinement and driver-assistance technology over the base ES and LE models without reaching the higher price point of the SEL.
The Role of the SE Trim in the 2025 Lineup
The SE trim is strategically positioned to offer a premium experience at a mainstream price. In the 2025 model year, Mitsubishi focused on consolidating features that were previously optional into the SE's standard equipment list. This includes the implementation of the Mi-PILOT Assist system and enhanced interior materials that bridge the gap between utility and luxury.
For drivers looking at the 2025 Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross SE in 2026, the primary appeal lies in its "all-in" approach to mechanical capability. Unlike rivals that offer front-wheel drive as standard and charge a premium for AWD, the SE comes factory-integrated with S-AWC. This makes it a formidable choice for regions with heavy snowfall or varied terrain. The SE also introduces several aesthetic and functional upgrades, such as synthetic suede and leather-appointed seating, which significantly elevate the cabin's tactile feel compared to the entry-level cloth found in the LE.
Detailed Engine and Powertrain Specifications
At the heart of the 2025 Eclipse Cross SE is a 1.5-liter direct-injection turbocharged four-cylinder engine. This powerplant is designed for efficiency and low-end torque rather than raw high-speed performance.
Performance Output
The 1.5L engine produces 152 horsepower at 5,500 rpm and 184 lb-ft of torque, which is available early in the rev range (2,000 to 3,500 rpm). This torque curve is essential for the vehicle’s drivability, allowing for responsive acceleration during city driving and confident merging onto highways.
Transmission and Drivability
The engine is paired with a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) that includes an 8-speed Sport Mode. Mitsubishi’s CVT is programmed to mimic traditional gear shifts under heavy acceleration, reducing the "rubber band" effect often associated with this transmission type. While it does not offer the visceral engagement of a dual-clutch system, it maximizes fuel efficiency and maintains the engine in its optimal power band.
Technical Specifications Table
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Engine Type | 1.5L Direct-Injection Turbocharged 4-Cylinder |
| Horsepower | 152 hp @ 5,500 rpm |
| Torque | 184 lb-ft @ 2,000–3,500 rpm |
| Transmission | CVT with 8-speed Sport Mode |
| Drivetrain | Super All-Wheel Control (S-AWC) |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 15.8 Gallons |
| Wheelbase | 105.1 inches |
| Ground Clearance | 8.0 inches |
| Towing Capacity | 1,500 lbs (when properly equipped) |
Understanding Super All-Wheel Control (S-AWC)
The "S-AWC" designation is the defining technical feature of the 2025 Eclipse Cross SE. Unlike basic "slip-and-grip" AWD systems found in many budget crossovers, S-AWC is an integrated vehicle dynamics control system that manages four distinct systems simultaneously:
- Active Yaw Control (AYC): This system manages the braking and torque distribution between the left and right wheels. By applying slight braking pressure to the inner wheel during a turn, it helps "rotate" the vehicle, reducing understeer.
- Anti-lock Braking System (ABS): Integrated to ensure that braking force does not compromise steering control during emergency maneuvers on slippery surfaces.
- Active Stability Control (ASC): Monitors vehicle path and adjusts engine power and braking to prevent skidding.
- Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD): Optimizes the distribution of braking force between the front and rear axles based on load and road conditions.
In the 2025 SE model, drivers can toggle through specific drive modes—Normal, Snow, and Gravel—using a dedicated selector. Each mode alters the logic of the S-AWC to prioritize stability or traction depending on the environment. In "Snow" mode, the system increases the locking effect of the center differential to ensure power is sent to the wheels with the most grip.
Exterior Design and SE-Specific Appointments
The 2025 Eclipse Cross SE maintains the "Dynamic Shield" design language but adds several trim-specific enhancements that distinguish it from the lower tiers. The SE features 18-inch two-tone alloy wheels as standard, filling the wheel wells more effectively than the 16-inch or 17-inch options found on some competitors.
Lighting and Visibility
The SE comes equipped with automatic LED headlights and LED daytime running lights. A significant upgrade for the SE trim is the inclusion of automatic high-beam assist, which uses a forward-facing camera to detect oncoming traffic and switch between high and low beams automatically. The power-folding, heated side mirrors are also a standard SE feature, including integrated turn signals for better visibility to other drivers.
Dimensions and Presence
With a total length of approximately 179 inches, the Eclipse Cross SE sits between the traditional subcompact (like the Mitsubishi Outlander Sport) and the larger compact SUVs (like the Outlander). This positioning makes it easier to park in urban environments while still providing a commanding 8.0-inch ground clearance, which is superior to many "soft-roaders" in its class.
Interior Comfort and Technology
The interior of the SE trim is where Mitsubishi has made the most significant efforts to provide value. The 2025 model year utilizes a mix of high-quality materials and ergonomic layouts.
Seating and Ergonomics
The SE features synthetic suede and leather-appointed seats, which offer better grip and temperature regulation than full leather or basic cloth. The driver’s seat is 8-way power-adjustable, and both front seats are heated. This level of adjustment is critical for long-distance comfort, especially considering the vehicle's upright seating position which provides excellent outward visibility.
Infotainment and Connectivity
Central to the dashboard is an 8.0-inch Smartphone-link Display Audio (SDA) system. This system includes:
- Integrated Navigation: Unlike the LE trim, the SE includes factory-installed TomTom navigation, which is useful in areas with poor cellular reception.
- Apple CarPlay and Android Auto: Standard wired connectivity allows for seamless integration of maps and media.
- Six-Speaker Audio: An upgrade over the base four-speaker system, providing a fuller sound stage within the cabin.
- FAST-Key Entry: Allows drivers to unlock and start the vehicle without removing the key fob from their pocket.
Cargo and Utility
The Eclipse Cross SE offers roughly 23.4 cubic feet of cargo space behind the second row. While this is less than the class-leading Honda CR-V, the second-row seats feature a 60/40 split-fold design and can slide and recline. This flexibility allows owners to prioritize rear legroom or cargo volume depending on the specific trip requirements.
Safety Systems and Mi-PILOT Assist
One of the strongest arguments for the SE trim is the inclusion of Mi-PILOT Assist. This is a Level 2 driver-assistance system that combines Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) with Lane Keep Assist (LKA).
When engaged on a highway, Mi-PILOT Assist can maintain a set distance from the vehicle ahead and provide steering inputs to keep the Eclipse Cross centered in its lane. In 2026, this technology has become a benchmark for what consumers expect in a mid-range SUV. The SE also includes:
- Blind Spot Warning (BSW) with Lane Change Assist: Crucial for highway safety.
- Rear Cross-Traffic Alert (RCTA): Notifies the driver of approaching vehicles while reversing out of parking spots.
- Multi-View Camera System: The SE provides a 360-degree overhead view of the vehicle, making tight parking maneuvers much safer.
Fuel Economy and Real-World Range
The EPA estimates for the 2025 Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross SE with S-AWC are approximately 25 mpg city, 26 mpg highway, and 25 mpg combined. Because the S-AWC system is always active and adds weight compared to a front-wheel-drive setup, the fuel economy is slightly lower than some FWD competitors.
With a 15.8-gallon fuel tank, the SE offers a theoretical cruising range of nearly 400 miles on the highway. Owners in 2026 have noted that fuel efficiency is highly sensitive to driving style, particularly because the small displacement 1.5L engine relies heavily on its turbocharger during acceleration.
Pricing and Total Cost of Ownership
As of 2026, the 2025 Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross SE with S-AWC maintains a strong value proposition in the used and new-old-stock markets. The initial MSRP for the SE trim was positioned around $29,095, plus a destination fee (typically $1,445).
Maintenance and Warranty
One of the most significant factors in the total cost of ownership is Mitsubishi’s warranty program, which remains one of the best in the industry:
- 10-Year/100,000-Mile Powertrain Limited Warranty: This is a major selling point for those planning to keep the vehicle long-term.
- 5-Year/60,000-Mile Basic Warranty: Comprehensive coverage for the vehicle's components.
- 5-Year/Unlimited Mile Roadside Assistance: Provides peace of mind for the first half-decade of ownership.
In 2026, the cost of regular maintenance (oil changes, tire rotations) remains competitive, with the 1.5L engine requiring 0W-20 synthetic oil. The S-AWC system requires periodic differential fluid checks, which is a standard part of the 30,000-mile service interval.
Comparison: SE vs. SEL
Prospective buyers often weigh the SE against the top-tier SEL. While the SEL adds full leather seats, a heated steering wheel, and a head-up display, the SE provides the same mechanical underpinnings (1.5L Turbo + S-AWC) and the core safety tech (Mi-PILOT) for roughly $2,000 to $3,000 less. For most drivers, the SE represents the most logical balance of luxury and cost.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between S-AWC and standard AWD?
Standard AWD systems typically only transfer power to the rear wheels when the front wheels lose traction. Mitsubishi’s S-AWC is an "active" system that uses torque vectoring (via braking) to proactively manage the vehicle's rotation and stability, even on dry pavement. It integrates the engine, transmission, and brakes into a single control logic.
Does the 2025 Eclipse Cross SE have a sunroof?
A panoramic sunroof is typically part of the "SE Panoramic Sunroof and Accessories" package rather than a standard feature of the base SE trim. If having a sunroof is a priority, buyers should look for SE models specifically equipped with this optional package, which also often adds roof rails.
How does the 2025 model differ from previous years?
The 2025 model year saw the standardization of S-AWC across all trims and a refinement of the Mi-PILOT Assist software. Additionally, Mitsubishi updated the interface of the 8.0-inch SDA system for better responsiveness compared to the 2022-2023 versions of the vehicle.
Is the 1.5L Turbo engine reliable?
The 4B40 engine used in the Eclipse Cross has been in production since 2017. It has proven to be a reliable unit, provided that owners adhere to the recommended oil change intervals. The use of a timing chain rather than a belt reduces long-term maintenance costs.
Can the Eclipse Cross SE tow a trailer?
Yes, the SE with S-AWC has a maximum towing capacity of 1,500 pounds. This is sufficient for small utility trailers, jet skis, or a motorcycle, but it is not intended for heavy campers or large boats.
Final Recommendation for 2026 Buyers
The 2025 Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross SE with S-AWC remains a compelling choice for those who prioritize safety technology and foul-weather capability over outright speed or cargo volume. In the 2026 market, its industry-leading powertrain warranty provides a level of security that many competitors cannot match.
If you are looking for a vehicle that offers a "set it and forget it" all-wheel-drive system, comfortable interior materials, and a suite of advanced driver-assistance features like Mi-PILOT, the SE trim is the optimal configuration. It avoids the austerity of the base models while bypassing the higher price of the luxury-oriented SEL, making it a highly practical investment for the modern driver.
