Key Takeaways
- The 2027 Mitsubishi Eclipse Sportback EV shares specifications and design elements with the Nissan Leaf.
- It features a 75 kWh battery, charging from 10-80% in about 35 minutes, and offers a maximum range of 303 miles.
- Pricing is expected to start around $31,535, with the vehicle launching this fall.
Mitsubishi Eclipse Sportback: A Budget-Friendly Electric Option
The Mitsubishi Eclipse Sportback EV, set to debut this fall, is a rebranded version of the Nissan Leaf with some distinct design tweaks. While the name “Eclipse” may evoke nostalgia for Millennials, the model is primarily a budget-friendly electric vehicle option in the market.
Mitsubishi recently revealed battery and charging specifications for the Eclipse Sportback, confirming that it uses the same 75 kWh battery pack as the Leaf, providing a maximum range of 303 miles. Charging speed, while not industry-leading, allows the battery to go from 10-80% in about 35 minutes. This performance is adequate for most users and should prove beneficial for those looking to maximize their time behind the wheel.
In terms of appearance, the Eclipse Sportback comes with modified front and rear bumpers, new wheels, and slight variations in the taillights, but the overall design remains closely tied to the Leaf. The aggressive exterior styling is a minor evolution but may not distinguish the two vehicles significantly in real-world driving conditions. Specific details about the interior remain undisclosed, which could provide further differentiation.
The charging infrastructure for the Eclipse Sportback is versatile. It features twin charging ports: a NACS charging port on the passenger side fender for Tesla Supercharger access, capable of charging at up to 150 kW, and a J1772 port on the driver’s side for Level 1 or Level 2 AC charging. This dual functionality makes the Eclipse compatible with various charging stations, highlighting its convenience for potential buyers.
There is currently no official price announcement, but industry speculation suggests it may begin around $31,535, similar to that of the Nissan Leaf. A competitive price might encourage consumers to choose the Mitsubishi version over the Nissan model, especially if Mitsubishi decides to undercut its rival to carve out its market share.
The Eclipse Sportback aims to appeal to budget-conscious consumers looking for an eco-friendly vehicle without sacrificing style or essential features. Although the sentiment associated with the “Eclipse” name may bring a wave of nostalgia, it embodies the evolving electric vehicle landscape, providing more affordable options in this expanding market. As consumers eagerly await its official launch, Mitsubishi appears poised to hit the ground running with this latest offering.
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