Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross vs. Toyota RAV4: A Compact SUV Comparison for Terre Haute Drivers

Shopping for a compact SUV means weighing performance, comfort, technology, and long-term value. For Terre Haute drivers, two models that often come up are the Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross and the Toyota RAV4. Both are stylish, versatile, and practical choices for everything from commuting to weekend trips. But when you take a closer look, the Eclipse Cross offers unique advantages that make it a standout in this competitive segment.

At Dorsett Mitsubishi, we’re here to help drivers in Terre Haute, Brazil, and West Terre Haute make confident car-buying decisions. That’s why we’ve created this in-depth comparison of the Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross vs. the Toyota RAV4. Whether you’re navigating downtown Terre Haute, cruising along I-70, or heading to Turkey Run State Park, this guide will help you decide which SUV is the best fit for your lifestyle.

Performance and Driving Experience

The Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross comes equipped with a 1.5L turbocharged engine that produces 152 horsepower. Its turbo design delivers strong low-end torque, giving it responsive acceleration for city driving and smooth highway merging. With Mitsubishi’s available Super All-Wheel Control (S-AWC), the Eclipse Cross also offers confident handling and traction in Indiana’s unpredictable weather.

The Toyota RAV4 comes standard with a 2.5L 4-cylinder engine producing 203 horsepower, giving it more output on paper. However, its naturally aspirated design means you don’t get the same immediate turbocharged feel at lower speeds. Toyota also offers hybrid options, but those come at a higher price point.

Verdict: The RAV4 is stronger on raw horsepower, but the Eclipse Cross’s turbocharged response and advanced S-AWC system make it a great choice for Terre Haute drivers who value agility, control, and year-round confidence.

Interior Comfort and Space

Inside, the Eclipse Cross offers seating for five with a refined, driver-focused cabin. Supportive seats and a stylish dashboard design give it a premium feel, while its versatile cargo area makes it easy to pack groceries, sports gear, or luggage.

The RAV4 is larger overall, which translates to more cargo volume and rear-seat legroom. However, some drivers find its interior design more utilitarian than upscale, with a focus on function over refinement. Meanwhile, the Eclipse Cross balances practicality with comfort, offering an interior that feels modern and user-friendly.

Verdict: The RAV4 wins in terms of sheer space, but the Eclipse Cross delivers a more refined, comfortable cabin experience for everyday driving.

Technology and Infotainment

The Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross comes standard with a 7-inch touchscreen and offers an available 8-inch upgrade. Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ integration are included across the lineup, so you can easily stay connected no matter which trim you choose.

The Toyota RAV4 offers a standard 8-inch touchscreen, with larger 10.5-inch options available on higher trims. While the bigger screens are impressive, many of Toyota’s most advanced tech features require stepping up to more expensive trims.

Verdict: The Eclipse Cross gives Terre Haute drivers strong tech value by making smartphone integration standard on all models.

Safety and Driver Assistance

Safety is a top priority in the Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross, which offers available features like Forward Collision Mitigation with Pedestrian Detection, Lane Departure Warning, Blind Spot Warning, and Rear Cross Traffic Alert. These features are designed to keep drivers confident on busy Terre Haute roads and highways.

The Toyota RAV4 comes standard with Toyota Safety Sense™, which includes adaptive cruise control, lane departure alert, and automatic emergency braking. It’s a strong package, though many of the more advanced features—like parking assist—are reserved for higher trims.

Verdict: Both SUVs offer impressive safety features, but the Eclipse Cross ensures advanced driver-assistance tech is more accessible across the lineup.

Value and Warranty Coverage

The Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross stands out when it comes to long-term value. It’s backed by Mitsubishi’s 10-year/100,000-mile Powertrain Limited Warranty and 5-year/60,000-mile New Vehicle Limited Warranty, giving Terre Haute drivers exceptional peace of mind.

The Toyota RAV4 comes with a 5-year/60,000-mile Powertrain Warranty and a 3-year/36,000-mile New Vehicle Limited Warranty. While Toyota’s reliability reputation is strong, Mitsubishi’s warranty coverage is significantly more generous.

Verdict: The Eclipse Cross delivers unbeatable long-term value thanks to its industry-leading warranty coverage.

5 Terre Haute Drives Perfect for the Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross:

The Eclipse Cross isn’t just a commuter vehicle — it’s built for every part of life in Terre Haute. Here are five local drives where it shines:

Turkey Run State Park – Enjoy smooth rides on scenic parkways.
Griffin Bike Park – Pack up your gear with ease thanks to versatile cargo space.
Dobbs Park Nature Center – Family-friendly outings with three-row seating.
Wabashiki Fish and Wildlife Area – Confident AWD for gravel and backroads.
Downtown Terre Haute Shopping District – Stand out with stylish design and maneuverable size.

Real-Life Considerations for Terre Haute Drivers

Here’s how the Eclipse Cross and RAV4 stack up for everyday Indiana driving:

Daily Driving: The Eclipse Cross’s turbocharged torque makes city and highway driving smooth and confident.
Weekend Adventures: With S-AWC and versatile cargo space, it’s ready for road trips and outdoor fun.
Weather Readiness: Indiana’s snowy winters and rainy springs are no match for Mitsubishi’s advanced AWD.
Long-Term Value: With its unmatched warranty and accessible features, the Eclipse Cross is a smart investment.

The Toyota RAV4 may be the right pick if you need maximum cargo space or want a hybrid option. But for drivers who value comfort, technology, and long-term peace of mind, the Eclipse Cross is hard to beat.

Final Thoughts: Why Choose the Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross?

The Toyota RAV4 is a proven contender in the compact SUV segment, but when it comes to turbocharged performance, refined comfort, user-friendly technology, and unbeatable warranty protection, the Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross takes the lead.

At Dorsett Mitsubishi, we’re proud to serve drivers across Terre Haute, Brazil, and West Terre Haute. If you’re ready to experience the Eclipse Cross firsthand, visit our showroom, explore our inventory, and take a test drive today. Discover why so many Indiana drivers are choosing the Eclipse Cross over the competition.