# Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross — Used Car Buying Guide

AutoScout's analysis of the Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross on the UK used-car market. Backed by 33 million DVSA MOT tests, current AutoTrader pricing, and depreciation curves derived from CAP/Glass's Guide data.

Live interactive report: https://autoscout.fyi/cars/mitsubishi-eclipse-cross

## Verdict

- **Best value year**: 2021
- **Ideal trim**: Design
- **Target mileage**: 30,000–50,000 miles
- **Max previous owners**: 2
- **Target price**: £12,397

## Why this model

The Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross PHEV is a solid choice if you're looking for a reliable, practical family SUV with the added benefit of plug-in hybrid efficiency. It's got a decent electric-only range for daily commutes, which can save you a lot on fuel if you charge regularly. Mitsubishi has a strong reputation for building tough, dependable cars, and the Eclipse Cross generally lives up to that. It's also quite spacious and comfortable, making it a good all-rounder for families.

## What you should pay

Based on current UK market data (February 2026), a 2021 Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross Design PHEV with around 30,000-50,000 miles typically sells for around £12,397. This represents excellent value, as the initial depreciation hit has already been absorbed. Prices can vary by a few hundred pounds depending on exact mileage, condition, and optional extras, but aim for this ballpark figure. Don't be afraid to negotiate, especially if a car has been on the forecourt for a while.

## Which trim to buy

The 'Design' trim hits the sweet spot for value. It comes with a good array of features like a touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, rear parking sensors, a reversing camera, and dual-zone climate control, without pushing the price up too much. You get all the essentials for comfort and convenience without paying extra for the more luxurious 'Exceed' trim features that many people don't necessarily need, like leather seats or a panoramic roof. It's the best balance of equipment and affordability.

## What to check before you buy

- Infotainment system can be a bit clunky or slow
- Some owners report minor rattles from interior trim
- PHEV battery degradation (check battery health report if possible, though generally robust)
- Brake wear can be slightly higher due to regenerative braking system complexity

## Running costs

Running costs for the Eclipse Cross PHEV can be very low if you utilise its electric range. Home charging on a standard tariff (around 25p/kWh) would cost roughly 7-8p per mile for electric driving. If you're on a smart tariff like Octopus Go or Intelligent Octopus (around 7.5p/kWh overnight), that drops to about 2-3p per mile. With a 28-mile electric range, many daily commutes could be electric-only. For longer trips, the 1.5T petrol engine is reasonably efficient. Road tax (VED) for PHEVs registered before April 2025 is currently free, but from April 2025, it will be £195 per year. Insurance costs are generally mid-range for a family SUV, typically £450-£750 per year depending on your personal circumstances.

## Key stats

- **Fuel Type**: Plug-in Hybrid
- **Horsepower**: 188 hp (combined)
- **Mpg**: Up to 159 mpg (official WLTP, depends heavily on electric use)
- **Reliability Score**: Above average
- **Safety Rating**: 5-star Euro NCAP (2017)

## Trim comparison

| Trim | Price new | Price used | Key features |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |
| Verve | £26,000 | £10,500 | 16-inch alloy wheels; DAB radio; Bluetooth connectivity |
| Design | £28,500 | £11,800 | 18-inch alloy wheels; 8-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay/Android Auto; Rear parking sensors |
| Exceed | £31,000 | £13,200 | Leather upholstery; Heated front seats; 360-degree camera |

## Depreciation forecast

| Year | Estimated value | Retention |
| --- | --- | --- |
| 2026 | £12,397 | 0% |
| 2027 | £11,281 | 9% |
| 2028 | £10,175 | 18% |
| 2029 | £9,174 | 26% |
| 2030 | £8,300 | 33% |

The 2021 model year is a great sweet spot because it's already taken the steepest depreciation hit from new. You're buying it at a point where its value will decline more gradually, meaning you'll lose less money over your ownership period compared to buying a newer model. It's also recent enough to have modern features and lower mileage.

Total value lost since new: 33%.

## Alternatives to consider

- [Kia Niro PHEV](https://autoscout.fyi/cars/kia-niro-phev.md)
- Hyundai Tucson PHEV
- Toyota C-HR Hybrid

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Source: AutoScout (https://autoscout.fyi). Part of a review of the UK used-car market across 500+ models.