2025 Mazda CX-30 vs 2026 Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross
Comparison Overview
Deciding between the refreshed 2025 Mazda CX-30 and the all-new 2026 Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross often boils down to whether you prioritize spirited driving dynamics or maximum utility in a compact footprint. The CX-30 immediately pulls ahead in performance, boasting 191 hp compared to the Eclipse Cross’s 152 hp, giving it a significant 39 hp advantage. Furthermore, the Mazda offers better fuel efficiency, achieving 29 combined MPG versus the Mitsubishi’s 26 combined MPG. However, the Eclipse Cross counters with practicality; it is physically larger, measuring 179.0 inches long and offering a superior 23.4 cubic feet of cargo space compared to the CX-30's 20.2 cu ft. While the Mazda starts at a lower MSRP of $25,195, the higher-priced Eclipse Cross ($27,695) aims to deliver more sheer cabin volume for those needing extra space.
Size Comparison
Performance
Fuel Efficiency
Full Specifications
Our Verdicts
2025 Mazda CX-30
The 2025 Mazda CX-30 wins for commuters due to its superior fuel economy, netting 29 combined MPG.
2026 Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross
The 2026 Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross is better for families as it provides more usable space with 23.4 cu ft of cargo capacity.
2025 Mazda CX-30
The CX-30 is the clear choice for enthusiasts thanks to its robust 191 hp output, significantly outpacing the competition.
2025 Mazda CX-30
The CX-30 offers better performance and efficiency for a lower starting price of $25,195.
Choose the Mazda CX-30 if...
- You want more punch on the highway, evidenced by its 191 hp engine.
- You prioritize saving at the pump, as it achieves 33 MPG on the highway.
- You prefer a slightly smaller vehicle, as its 173.0-inch length makes city maneuvering easier.
Choose the Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross if...
- You frequently haul gear, benefiting from the larger 23.4 cu ft of available cargo room.
- You prefer a taller ride height, indicated by its 66.5-inch overall height.
- You value the slight edge in width, being 71.1 inches wide for potentially more shoulder room.
Key Dimensions
| Dimension | Mazda CX-30 | Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross |
|---|---|---|
| Length | 173.0" | 179.0" |
| Width | 70.7" | 71.1" |
| Height | 61.7" | 66.5" |
| Wheelbase | 104.4" | 105.1" |
Features Comparison
Safety
| Feature | Mazda | Mitsubishi |
|---|---|---|
| Blind Spot Monitor | ✓ | — |
| Lane Departure Warning | ✓ | ✓ |
| Lane Keeping Assist System | ✓ | — |
| Rear Cross Traffic Alert | ✓ | — |
| Driver Attention Alert | ✓ | — |
| Pre-Collision Safety System | ✓ | ✓ |
| Post-Collision Safety System | ✓ | — |
| Dual Front Side-Mounted Airbags | ✓ | ✓ |
| Dual Rear Side-Mounted Airbags | ✓ | — |
| Front Head Airbags | ✓ | ✓ |
| Rear Head Airbags | ✓ | ✓ |
| Passenger Airbag Occupant Sensing Deactivation | ✓ | ✓ |
| Electronic Stability Control | ✓ | ✓ |
| Traction Control System | ✓ | ✓ |
| LATCH System | ✓ | ✓ |
| Rear Door Child Safety Locks | ✓ | ✓ |
| Anti-lock Brakes (ABS) | 4-Wheel | 4-Wheel |
| Front Ventilated Disc Brakes | ✓ | ✓ |
| Rear Solid Disc Brakes | ✓ | ✓ |
| Brake Assist | ✓ | ✓ |
| Tire Pressure Monitoring System | ✓ | ✓ |
| Automatic Headlights | ✓ | — |
| Headlight Delay-Off | ✓ | — |
| LED Headlights | ✓ | ✓ |
| Daytime Running Lights | ✓ | ✓ |
| Front Headrests | 2 | 2 |
| Front Height Adjustable Headrests | ✓ | ✓ |
| Rear Headrests | 3 | 3 |
| Rear Height Adjustable Headrests | ✓ | ✓ |
| Rear Center 3-Point Seatbelt | ✓ | ✓ |
| Engine Immobilizer | ✓ | ✓ |
| Front Fog Lights | — | ✓ |
| Integrated Turn Signal Mirrors | — | ✓ |
| Anti-Theft Alarm System (Remote) | — | ✓ |
Engine
| Feature | Mazda | Mitsubishi |
|---|---|---|
| Base Engine Displacement | 2.5 L | 1.5 L |
| Number of Cylinders | inline 4 | inline 4 |
| Base Engine Type | gas | gas |
| Horsepower | 191 hp @ 6000 rpm | 152 hp @ 5500 rpm |
| Torque | 186 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm | 184 lb-ft @ 2000 rpm |
| Number of Valves | 16 | 16 |
| Camshaft Type | Double overhead cam (DOHC) | Double overhead cam (DOHC) |
| Variable Valve Timing | Variable | Variable |
| Fuel Injection Type | ✓ | ✓ |
| Cylinder Deactivation | ✓ | — |
Drive Train
| Feature | Mazda | Mitsubishi |
|---|---|---|
| Transmission Type | 6-speed shiftable automatic | continuously variable-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain Type | all wheel drive | all wheel drive |
| Center Differential Type | — | Limited Slip |
Fuel
| Feature | Mazda | Mitsubishi |
|---|---|---|
| Fuel Type | regular unleaded | regular unleaded |
| EPA Fuel Economy (City/Highway) | 26/33 MPG | 25/28 MPG |
| EPA Fuel Economy (Combined) | 29 MPG | 26 MPG |
| EPA Driving Range (City/Highway) | 330.2/419.1 mi. | 395.0/442.4 mi. |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 12.7 gal. | 15.8 gal. |
Comfort & Convenience
| Feature | Mazda | Mitsubishi |
|---|---|---|
| Push Button Start | ✓ | — |
| Tilt and Telescopic Steering Wheel | ✓ | ✓ |
| Audio Controls on Steering Wheel | ✓ | ✓ |
| Cruise Control on Steering Wheel | ✓ | ✓ |
| Electric Power Steering | ✓ | ✓ |
| Rear View Camera | ✓ | ✓ |
| Adaptive Cruise Control | ✓ | — |
| Front Cupholders | ✓ | ✓ |
| Rear Cupholders | ✓ | — |
| Front Door Pockets | ✓ | ✓ |
| Rear Door Pockets | ✓ | — |
| Single Zone Climate Control | ✓ | ✓ |
| Dual Vanity Mirrors | ✓ | ✓ |
| Cruise Control | — | ✓ |
| Front Seatback Storage | — | ✓ |
| Rear Ventilation Ducts | — | ✓ |
| Interior Air Filtration | — | ✓ |
| Turn Signal Indicators in Mirrors | — | ✓ |
In Car Entertainment
| Feature | Mazda | Mitsubishi |
|---|---|---|
| Infotainment Display | 8.8 in | 8.0 in |
| AM/FM Stereo | ✓ | ✓ |
| Speaker System | 6 | 4 |
| Android Auto (Wired) | ✓ | ✓ |
| Apple CarPlay (Wired) | ✓ | ✓ |
| USB Port | ✓ | ✓ |
| USB Port with External Media Control | ✓ | ✓ |
| Satellite Radio | — | ✓ |
| Satellite Radio Trial Period | — | 3 months |
Power Feature
| Feature | Mazda | Mitsubishi |
|---|---|---|
| One-Touch Power Windows | 4 | 1 |
| Remote Keyless Entry | ✓ | ✓ |
| Heated Mirrors | ✓ | ✓ |
Frontseats
| Feature | Mazda | Mitsubishi |
|---|---|---|
| Front Head Room | 38.1 in. | 39.5 in. |
| Front Leg Room | 41.7 in. | 40.9 in. |
| Front Shoulder Room | 55.6 in. | 56.2 in. |
| Front Hip Room | 54.6 in. | 53.0 in. |
| Seat Material: Cloth | ✓ | ✓ |
| Front Seat Type: Bucket | ✓ | ✓ |
| Driver Seat Manual Adjustments | 6-way | 6-way |
| Driver Seat Height Adjustment | ✓ | ✓ |
| Passenger Seat Manual Adjustments | 4-way | 4-way |
Rearseats
| Feature | Mazda | Mitsubishi |
|---|---|---|
| Rear Head Room | 38.3 in. | 37.3 in. |
| Rear Leg Room | 36.3 in. | 37.1 in. |
| Rear Shoulder Room | 53.6 in. | 55.1 in. |
| Rear Hip Room | 53.2 in. | 52.0 in. |
| Split-Folding Rear Seatback | ✓ | ✓ |
| Reclining Rear Seats | ✓ | ✓ |
Tires and Wheels
| Feature | Mazda | Mitsubishi |
|---|---|---|
| Wheel Finish | Painted Alloy | Painted Alloy |
| Wheel Size | 16 x 6.5 in | 16 x 6.5 in |
| Tire Type | All Season | All Season |
| Tire Size | 215/65R16 | 215/70R16 |
| Spare Tire Type | Temporary | Temporary |
| Spare Tire Location | Inside Mounted | Inside Mounted |
Suspension
| Feature | Mazda | Mitsubishi |
|---|---|---|
| Front Suspension Type | Independent | — |
| Stabilizer Bar | ✓ | — |
| Four-Wheel Independent Suspension | — | ✓ |
| Front Stabilizer Bar | — | ✓ |
| Rear Stabilizer Bar | — | ✓ |
Warranty
| Feature | Mazda | Mitsubishi |
|---|---|---|
| Basic Warranty | 3 yr./ 36000 mi. | 5 yr./ 60000 mi. |
| Drivetrain Warranty | 5 yr./ 60000 mi. | 10 yr./ 100000 mi. |
| Corrosion/Rust Warranty | 5 yr./ unlimited mi. | 7 yr./ 100000 mi. |
| Roadside Assistance | 3 yr./ 36000 mi. | 5 yr./ unlimited mi. |
| Complimentary Scheduled Maintenance | — | 2 yr./ 30000 mi. |
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about comparing the 2025 Mazda CX-30 and 2026 Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross.
Is the power difference between the CX-30 and the Eclipse Cross noticeable?
Yes, the difference is significant; the 2025 Mazda CX-30 delivers 191 hp, which is 39 more horsepower than the 2026 Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross's 152 hp. This means the Mazda will feel noticeably quicker when accelerating onto highways or passing other vehicles.
Which crossover offers more space for luggage and groceries?
The 2026 Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross is the practical winner here, offering 23.4 cubic feet of cargo capacity. The 2025 Mazda CX-30 trails slightly behind with 20.2 cubic feet, so if space is paramount, the Mitsubishi holds the edge.
Are fuel costs likely to differ substantially between these two AWD models?
They use regular unleaded fuel, but the Mazda CX-30 is more economical with a 29 combined MPG rating. The Eclipse Cross is rated at 26 combined MPG, suggesting the Mazda will save you a bit more money over the course of a year of driving.
How do the starting prices compare for these two compact crossovers?
The 2025 Mazda CX-30 has a lower entry point at $25,195 MSRP. The newer 2026 Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross comes in higher, starting at $27,695 MSRP for comparable base all-wheel-drive configurations.
What is the transmission difference between the two cars?
The Mazda utilizes a traditional 6-speed shiftable automatic transmission, giving a more conventional driving feel. Conversely, the Eclipse Cross employs a continuously variable-speed automatic (CVT), which prioritizes smooth, gearless acceleration and efficiency.
If I plan on frequent highway driving, which car is better for cruising?
For highway cruising, the CX-30 offers better highway fuel economy (33 MPG vs. 28 MPG) and higher torque (186 lb-ft vs. 184 lb-ft), making it a slightly more relaxed and efficient highway companion.
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