2026 Chevrolet Trailblazer vs 2026 Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross
Comparison Overview
Trying to balance budget and capability in a new crossover can feel tricky, especially when comparing the affordable 2026 Chevrolet Trailblazer against the slightly more premium 2026 Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross. The Trailblazer jumps out immediately with a sharp $23,000 MSRP, significantly undercutting the Eclipse Cross's $27,695 price tag by $4,695. While the Chevy offers superior efficiency, netting 30 combined MPG versus the Mitsubishi's 26 combined MPG, it sacrifices some muscle, generating 137 horsepower compared to the Eclipse Cross's 152 hp. Space utilization is close; the Trailblazer is marginally shorter at 174.1 inches long but offers slightly more cargo room at 25.3 cubic feet versus the Eclipse Cross's 23.4 cubic feet. Ultimately, deciding comes down to prioritizing significant upfront savings and fuel economy (Car1) versus gaining standard AWD and more standard torque (184 lb-ft in Car2).
Size Comparison
Performance
Fuel Efficiency
Full Specifications
Our Verdicts
2026 Chevrolet Trailblazer
The 2026 Chevrolet Trailblazer wins for commuters due to its excellent 30 combined MPG and lower initial $23,000 cost.
2026 Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross
The 2026 Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross is better suited for families by offering standard All-Wheel Drive and slightly more height at 66.5 inches for easier loading.
2026 Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross
The Eclipse Cross appeals more to enthusiasts, delivering 152 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque compared to the Trailblazer's 137 hp and 162 lb-ft.
2026 Chevrolet Trailblazer
The Trailblazer provides clear upfront value, saving the buyer $4,695 right off the sticker price compared to the Eclipse Cross.
Choose the Chevrolet Trailblazer if...
- Your primary focus is minimizing running costs, as indicated by its 30 combined MPG rating.
- You need the lowest possible entry price for a new crossover, starting at just $23,000.
- You prefer slightly easier maneuverability due to its shorter 174.1-inch overall length.
Choose the Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross if...
- You frequently encounter slick roads, as the Eclipse Cross includes standard All-Wheel Drive.
- You prioritize maximum power, benefitting from 152 horsepower versus Car1's 137 hp.
- You plan to use E85 fuel sometimes, as the Trailblazer is the only flex-fuel option.
Key Dimensions
| Dimension | Chevrolet Trailblazer | Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross |
|---|---|---|
| Length | 174.1" | 179.0" |
| Width | 71.2" | 71.1" |
| Height | 64.2" | 66.5" |
| Wheelbase | 104.0" | 105.1" |
Features Comparison
Safety
| Feature | Chevrolet | Mitsubishi |
|---|---|---|
| Lane Departure Warning | โ | โ |
| Lane Keeping Assist System | โ | โ |
| Pre-Collision Safety System | โ | โ |
| Post-Collision Safety System | โ | โ |
| Dual Front Side-Mounted Airbags | โ | โ |
| Front Head Airbags | โ | โ |
| Rear Head Airbags | โ | โ |
| Passenger Airbag Occupant Sensing Deactivation | โ | โ |
| Electronic Stability Control | โ | โ |
| Traction Control System | โ | โ |
| LATCH System | โ | โ |
| Rear Door Child Safety Locks | โ | โ |
| Anti-lock Brakes (ABS) | 4-Wheel | 4-Wheel |
| Brake Drying | โ | โ |
| Front Ventilated Disc Brakes | โ | โ |
| Rear Solid Disc Brakes | โ | โ |
| Brake Assist | โ | โ |
| Tire Pressure Monitoring System | โ | โ |
| Automatic Headlights | โ | โ |
| Headlight Delay-Off | โ | โ |
| LED Headlights | โ | โ |
| Daytime Running Lights | โ | โ |
| Front Headrests | 2 | 2 |
| Front Height Adjustable Headrests | โ | โ |
| Rear Headrests | 2 | 3 |
| Rear Height Adjustable Headrests | โ | โ |
| Rear Center 3-Point Seatbelt | โ | โ |
| Anti-Theft Alarm System (Remote) | โ | โ |
| Engine Immobilizer | โ | โ |
| Front Fog Lights | โ | โ |
| Integrated Turn Signal Mirrors | โ | โ |
Engine
| Feature | Chevrolet | Mitsubishi |
|---|---|---|
| Base Engine Displacement | 1.2 L | 1.5 L |
| Number of Cylinders | inline 3 | inline 4 |
| Base Engine Type | gas | gas |
| Horsepower | 137 hp @ 5000 rpm | 152 hp @ 5500 rpm |
| Torque | 162 lb-ft @ 2500 rpm | 184 lb-ft @ 2000 rpm |
| Number of Valves | 12 | 16 |
| Camshaft Type | Double overhead cam (DOHC) | Double overhead cam (DOHC) |
| Variable Valve Timing | Variable | Variable |
| Fuel Injection Type | โ | โ |
Drive Train
| Feature | Chevrolet | Mitsubishi |
|---|---|---|
| Transmission Type | continuously variable-speed automatic | continuously variable-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain Type | front wheel drive | all wheel drive |
| Center Differential Type | โ | Limited Slip |
Fuel
| Feature | Chevrolet | Mitsubishi |
|---|---|---|
| Fuel Type | flex-fuel (unleaded/E85) | regular unleaded |
| EPA Fuel Economy (City/Highway) | 30/31 MPG | 25/28 MPG |
| EPA Fuel Economy (Combined) | 30 MPG | 26 MPG |
| EPA Driving Range (City/Highway) | 396.0/409.2 mi. | 395.0/442.4 mi. |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 13.2 gal. | 15.8 gal. |
Comfort & Convenience
| Feature | Chevrolet | Mitsubishi |
|---|---|---|
| Push Button Start | โ | โ |
| Tilt and Telescopic Steering Wheel | โ | โ |
| Audio Controls on Steering Wheel | โ | โ |
| Cruise Control on Steering Wheel | โ | โ |
| Electric Power Steering | โ | โ |
| Rear View Camera | โ | โ |
| Cruise Control | โ | โ |
| Front Cupholders | โ | โ |
| Front Door Pockets | โ | โ |
| Rear Door Pockets | โ | โ |
| Front Seatback Storage | โ | โ |
| Single Zone Climate Control | โ | โ |
| Rear Ventilation Ducts | โ | โ |
| Interior Air Filtration | โ | โ |
| Dual Vanity Mirrors | โ | โ |
| Turn Signal Indicators in Mirrors | โ | โ |
In Car Entertainment
| Feature | Chevrolet | Mitsubishi |
|---|---|---|
| Infotainment Display | 11.0 in | 8.0 in |
| AM/FM Stereo | โ | โ |
| Speaker System | 4 | 4 |
| Android Auto (Wireless) | โ | โ |
| Apple CarPlay (Wireless) | โ | โ |
| USB Port | โ | โ |
| Auxiliary Audio Input | โ | โ |
| USB Port with External Media Control | โ | โ |
| Satellite Radio | โ | โ |
| Speed Sensitive Volume Control | โ | โ |
| Android Auto (Wired) | โ | โ |
| Apple CarPlay (Wired) | โ | โ |
| Satellite Radio Trial Period | โ | 3 months |
Power Feature
| Feature | Chevrolet | Mitsubishi |
|---|---|---|
| One-Touch Power Windows | 4 | 1 |
| Remote Keyless Entry | โ | โ |
| Heated Mirrors | โ | โ |
Frontseats
| Feature | Chevrolet | Mitsubishi |
|---|---|---|
| Front Head Room | 40.0 in. | 39.5 in. |
| Front Leg Room | 40.9 in. | 40.9 in. |
| Front Shoulder Room | 55.4 in. | 56.2 in. |
| Front Hip Room | 52.3 in. | 53.0 in. |
| Seat Material: Cloth | โ | โ |
| Front Seat Type: Bucket | โ | โ |
| Driver Seat Manual Adjustments | 6-way | 6-way |
| Driver Seat Height Adjustment | โ | โ |
| Passenger Seat Manual Adjustments | 4-way | 4-way |
| Passenger Seat Folding Capability | โ | โ |
Rearseats
| Feature | Chevrolet | Mitsubishi |
|---|---|---|
| Rear Head Room | 38.4 in. | 37.3 in. |
| Rear Leg Room | 39.0 in. | 37.1 in. |
| Rear Shoulder Room | 53.8 in. | 55.1 in. |
| Rear Hip Room | 50.4 in. | 52.0 in. |
| Split-Folding Rear Seatback | โ | โ |
| Reclining Rear Seats | โ | โ |
Tires and Wheels
| Feature | Chevrolet | Mitsubishi |
|---|---|---|
| Wheel Finish | Painted Alloy | Painted Alloy |
| Wheel Diameter | 17 in | โ |
| Tire Type | All Season | All Season |
| Tire Size | 225/60R17 | 215/70R16 |
| Wheel Size | โ | 16 x 6.5 in |
| Spare Tire Type | โ | Temporary |
| Spare Tire Location | โ | Inside Mounted |
Suspension
| Feature | Chevrolet | Mitsubishi |
|---|---|---|
| Front Suspension Type | Independent | โ |
| Front Stabilizer Bar | โ | โ |
| Rear Stabilizer Bar | โ | โ |
| Four-Wheel Independent Suspension | โ | โ |
Warranty
| Feature | Chevrolet | Mitsubishi |
|---|---|---|
| Basic Warranty | 3 yr./ 36000 mi. | 5 yr./ 60000 mi. |
| Drivetrain Warranty | 5 yr./ 60000 mi. | 10 yr./ 100000 mi. |
| Corrosion/Rust Warranty | 6 yr./ 100000 mi. | 7 yr./ 100000 mi. |
| Roadside Assistance | 5 yr./ 60000 mi. | 5 yr./ unlimited mi. |
| Complimentary Scheduled Maintenance | 1 yr./ unlimited mi. | 2 yr./ 30000 mi. |
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about comparing the 2026 Chevrolet Trailblazer and 2026 Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross.
What is the main trade-off when choosing the cheaper 2026 Trailblazer over the Eclipse Cross?
The main trade-off involves power and drivetrain capability. The Trailblazer costs $4,695 less and gets 4 MPG better (30 combined vs. 26 combined), but it only offers Front Wheel Drive and produces 137 horsepower.
Does the Eclipse Cross handle bad weather better than the Trailblazer?
Yes, the 2026 Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross comes standard with All-Wheel Drive, making it inherently better suited for poor weather conditions than the Front Wheel Drive configuration of the 2026 Chevrolet Trailblazer.
Which vehicle offers more room for luggage?
The 2026 Chevrolet Trailblazer provides slightly more dedicated storage space, boasting 25.3 cubic feet of cargo capacity compared to the Eclipse Cross's 23.4 cubic feet.
If I only use regular unleaded gas, which car is cheaper to fuel?
While the Trailblazer offers superior efficiency at 30 MPG, if you exclusively use regular unleaded gas (Car2's fuel type) and avoid the Trailblazer's E85 option, the overall fuel cost difference might narrow slightly, though Car1 is still expected to be cheaper to run.
How much more horsepower does the Eclipse Cross offer?
The 2026 Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross generates 152 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque, giving it a noticeable advantage over the 2026 Trailblazer, which is rated at 137 horsepower and 162 lb-ft of torque.
Is the Trailblazer significantly smaller than the Eclipse Cross?
Not significantly; the Trailblazer is 174.1 inches long while the Eclipse Cross measures 179.0 inches long. The Eclipse Cross is also 2.3 inches taller.
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