The 2026 Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross LE is worth buying over the base ES trim for drivers who want heated front seats, larger 18-inch black alloy wheels, FAST-Key entry with push-button start, and rain-sensing wipers for a modest price increase of $1,600. Both value trims feature standard Super All-Wheel Control (S-AWC), an 8-inch Smartphone-link Display Audio touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty. Upgrading to the LE trim secures popular everyday comfort and convenience features that deliver strong long-term value for daily commutes.
For budget-conscious crossover buyers, the price difference between the entry-level ES S-AWC at $27,695 base MSRP and the LE S-AWC at $29,295 base MSRP represents one of the most cost-effective trim upgrades in the compact SUV segment. Under the hood, both models share the exact same responsive 1.5L turbocharged four-cylinder engine, generating 152 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque paired with a continuously variable transmission ( CVT). Because performance and baseline mechanical hardware are identical, your decision comes down to interior refinement, exterior style, and daily tech conveniences.
The ES trim delivers excellent core value for buyers who want an affordable, all-weather vehicle with standard all-wheel drive, basic driver-assist technology like Forward Collision Mitigation and Lane Departure Warning, and essential smartphone integration. However, the LE trim transforms the daily driving experience by adding automatic high beams, black exterior styling accents, heated front seating, and keyless access. Buyers comparing both options on our showroom floor frequently find that the added convenience of the LE trim may be worthwhile for many shoppers.
To experience both trims in person, visit our showroom location in Seminole or give our team a quick call to check current availability. You can also explore our full new Mitsubishi inventory online to see which configurations are currently in stock.
Table of Contents
- What Are the Key Feature and Equipment Differences Between the ES and LE Trims?
- How Do MSRP, Destination Fees, and Optional Packages Impact Your Total Price?
- Which Trim Retains Better Resale Value: Eclipse Cross ES or LE?
- How Does Mitsubishi Super All-Wheel Control (S-AWC) Enhance Driving in Rainy Conditions?
- How Does Eclipse Cross Cargo Space Compare to the Toyota RAV4?
- Common Questions About the 2026 Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross ES and LE
- Find Your Ideal 2026 Eclipse Cross at St. Pete Mitsubishi
What Are the Key Feature and Equipment Differences Between the ES and LE Trims?
The key differences between the 2026 Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross ES and LE trims lie in wheel sizing, interior heating, keyless entry technology, exterior accents, and connected vehicle services. While the ES trim serves as the foundational baseline with 16-inch two-tone alloy wheels and fabric seating, the LE trim upgrades to 18-inch black-painted alloy wheels, heated front seats, FAST-Key entry with push-button start, front rain-sensing wipers, and black side mirror caps.
Both trims include an 8-inch Smartphone-link Display Audio system featuring Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, giving drivers seamless access to navigation, music, and hands-free communication. Standard safety systems across both models include Forward Collision Mitigation with Pedestrian Detection, Lane Departure Warning, Active Stability Control, and Hill Start Assist. However, the LE trim adds Automatic High Beam headlights and a 24-month trial of Mitsubishi Connect with Safeguard and Remote Services, enabling remote vehicle start and door locking directly from your smartphone.
For suburban commuters driving along US-19 in Pinellas Park, those added conveniences make a noticeable difference in daily comfort. Stepping into a cabin with pre-conditioned climate control or enjoying heated seating during cooler morning drives adds a level of luxury not available on the base trim.
Here is a quick overview of how equipment compares across both value trims:
- Wheel Equipment: The ES rides on 16-inch two-tone alloy wheels with 215/70R16 tires, whereas the LE steps up to bold 18-inch black-painted alloy wheels.
- Seating & Comfort: The ES offers standard fabric seating, while the LE adds multi-stage heated front seats for added driver and front passenger comfort.
- Access & Convenience: The ES uses traditional remote keyless entry; the LE upgrades to FAST-Key keyless entry with push-button start and front rain-sensing windshield wipers.
- Exterior Styling: The LE distinctive dark appearance package includes black-painted side mirrors and black exterior trim accents.
If you are open to pre-owned models from recent model years as well, browse our selection of pre-owned vehicles to compare feature packages across different model years.
Pricing
Pricing by trim
| Feature | Black Edition S-AWC | ES S-AWC | LE S-AWC | RALLIART S-AWC | SE S-AWC | SEL S-AWC |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Base MSRP | $31,545 | $27,695 | $29,295 | $31,245 | $30,395 | $31,845 |
| Destination charge | $1,745 | $1,745 | $1,745 | $1,745 | $1,745 | $1,745 |
How Do MSRP, Destination Fees, and Optional Packages Impact Your Total Price?
The 2026 Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross ES S-AWC carries a base MSRP of $27,695, while the 2026 Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross LE S-AWC starts at $29,295 base MSRP. Both trims are subject to a standard manufacturer destination and handling charge of $1,745, bringing the starting total vehicle prices before dealer options to $29,440 for the ES and $31,040 for the LE.
Optional dealer-installed accessory packages let you tailor either trim to your specific lifestyle needs. Popular protection packages, such as all-weather floor mats, cargo space liners, and rear bumper protectors, typically range from $150 to $450. Because the LE trim includes key cosmetic and convenience features standard—such as 18-inch black alloy wheels and keyless push-button ignition—buyers often spend less on add-on options than they would trying to upgrade a base ES trim after purchase.
When evaluating total out-of-door pricing, higher trims in the lineup showcase how the ES and LE position themselves as high-value entries:
- ES S-AWC: Base MSRP $27,695 (Destination $1,745)
- LE S-AWC: Base MSRP $29,295 (Destination $1,745)
- SE S-AWC: Base MSRP $30,395 (Destination $1,745)
- RALLIART S-AWC: Base MSRP $31,245 (Destination $1,745)
- Black Edition S-AWC: Base MSRP $31,545 (Destination $1,745)
- SEL S-AWC: Base MSRP $31,845 (Destination $1,745)
Fuel economy estimates also factor into long-term ownership costs. The ES S-AWC is EPA-rated at 25 mpg city / 28 mpg highway (26 mpg combined), while the LE S-AWC earns 25 mpg city / 26 mpg highway (25 mpg combined) due to its larger 18-inch wheel and tire package.
Our finance team can walk you through total purchase costs, tax calculations, and flexible payment structures. Learn more about exploring auto leasing and financing paths, or get started from home by submitting an online credit application.
Which Trim Retains Better Resale Value: Eclipse Cross ES or LE?
According to recent market data, the 2026 Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross LE holds approximately 5% higher resale value than the ES trim after three years of ownership. Pre-owned crossover shoppers actively look for desirable tech and comfort equipment—specifically heated seats, larger alloy wheels, FAST-Key push-button start, and smartphone integration—making mid-tier trims like the LE more attractive to second-hand buyers down the road.
While base trims like the ES offer the lowest initial purchase barrier, entry-level models with smaller 16-inch wheels and basic keyless entry tend to experience steeper initial depreciation curves. The $1,600 price gap between the ES and LE when new is frequently recovered in higher trade-in appraisals and faster resale turnaround times when you decide to upgrade in the future.
Secondary market demand strongly favors vehicles equipped with modern convenience technology. Features like rain-sensing wipers, black exterior accents, and integrated smartphone apps via Mitsubishi Connect give the LE a distinct edge on used car lots. Combined with Mitsubishi's transferable 5-year/60,000-mile basic warranty coverage, an LE trim maintains high practical appeal for future buyers.
If you are considering upgrading from your current vehicle, you can value your trade-in online to see how much equity you can apply toward a new Eclipse Cross.
How Does Mitsubishi Super All-Wheel Control (S-AWC) Enhance Driving in Rainy Conditions?
Mitsubishi Super All-Wheel Control (S-AWC) enhances driving dynamics in rainy conditions by actively monitoring steering angle, wheel speed, yaw rate, and engine torque to prevent wheel slip before it happens. Standard on both the ES and LE trims, S-AWC integrates 4WD, Active Yaw Control (AYC), Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), and Active Stability Control (ASC) into a single unified driving stability system.
During intense afternoon rainstorms near Clearwater beaches, standing water on coastal roadways can easily trigger hydroplaning or sudden loss of traction. When S-AWC detects slick pavement or abrupt directional changes, it uses electro-magnetic coupling to transfer power between the front and rear axles while applying subtle braking force to individual inner wheels via Active Yaw Control. This seamless torque vectoring keeps the vehicle tracking predictably through sharp turns and emergency maneuvers without driver intervention.
Drivers can select from selectable driving modes—including Normal, Gravel, and Snow—to tailor traction control response to surface conditions. On wet asphalt, Normal mode balances fuel efficiency with instant traction response, ensuring confident acceleration from full stops on slippery pavement.
To learn about current purchase and financing program information, explore our Mitsubishi VIP purchase program today.
How Does Eclipse Cross Cargo Space Compare to the Toyota RAV4?
The 2026 Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross provides about 23 cubic feet of cargo space behind the 60/40 split rear seats and expands to about 50 cubic feet when the rear seats are folded flat. By comparison, the larger Toyota RAV4 offers about 37.5 cubic feet of rear cargo space and up to about 70 cubic feet overall with seats stowed.
While the Toyota RAV4 holds a numerical volume advantage due to its longer overall body length, the Eclipse Cross offers a more maneuverable footprint that excels in tight suburban parking lots and congested city traffic. With a curb weight of 3,406 lbs on the ES S-AWC and 3,450 lbs on the LE S-AWC, the Eclipse Cross delivers responsive handling while maintaining a maximum towing capacity of 1,500 lbs and a payload capacity of 1,224 lbs on ES ( 1,180 lbs on LE).
The Eclipse Cross cargo floor is wide and low, making it easy to load luggage, groceries, or weekend recreational gear. Passenger room remains comfortable for five occupants, offering 37.1 inches of rear legroom beneath its distinctive coupe-like roofline. For buyers seeking standard all-wheel drive, a lower starting price, and an unbeatable 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty, the Eclipse Cross delivers outstanding overall value.
Check out our new Eclipse Cross inventory to view available colors and interior cabin layouts.
Dimensions & Capacity
Capacity and dimensions by trim
| Feature | Black Edition S-AWC | ES S-AWC | LE S-AWC | RALLIART S-AWC | SE S-AWC | SEL S-AWC |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Seating | 5 | 5 | 5 | 5 | 5 | 5 |
| Cargo | 23.4 cu ft | 23.4 cu ft | 23.4 cu ft | 23.4 cu ft | 23.4 cu ft | 23.4 cu ft |
| Curb weight | 3,483 lbs | 3,406 lbs | 3,450 lbs | 3,472 lbs | 3,483 lbs | 3,483 lbs |
| Towing | 1,500 lbs | 1,500 lbs | 1,500 lbs | 1,500 lbs | 1,500 lbs | 1,500 lbs |
| Payload | 1,147 lbs | 1,224 lbs | 1,180 lbs | 1,158 lbs | 1,147 lbs | 1,147 lbs |
Common Questions About the 2026 Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross ES and LE
Q: Does the 2026 Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross ES include Apple CarPlay and Android Auto?
Yes, for the 2026 model year, the base Eclipse Cross ES trim comes standard with an 8-inch Smartphone-link Display Audio system that includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration. Previously restricted to higher trims, smartphone mirroring is now standard equipment across the entire Eclipse Cross lineup, allowing drivers to access navigation and mobile apps via a wired USB connection on both ES and LE trims.
Q: What is the destination fee for the 2026 Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross?
The manufacturer destination and handling charge for the 2026 Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross is $1,745. This standard charge applies equally across all trim levels—including ES, LE, SE, RALLIART, Black Edition, and SEL—and is added to the base vehicle MSRP to establish the total starting sticker price.
Q: What wheel size comes standard on the ES trim versus the LE trim?
The 2026 Eclipse Cross ES comes standard with 16-inch two-tone alloy wheels fitted with 215/70R16 all-season tires. Upgrading to the LE trim increases the wheel size to 18-inch black-painted alloy wheels wrapped in lower-profile all-season tires, giving the vehicle a sportier profile and sharper exterior styling.
Q: Are heated front seats available on the base Eclipse Cross ES trim?
No, heated front seats are not available on the entry-level ES trim. Multi-stage heated front seats become standard equipment starting on the LE trim, making the LE an attractive option for buyers seeking added cold-weather comfort without jumping to higher pricing tiers.
Q: What engine and transmission power the 2026 Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross?
Every 2026 Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross is powered by a 1.5L turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 152 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque. The engine is paired with an advanced continuously variable transmission ( CVT) and Mitsubishi Super All-Wheel Control (S-AWC) all-wheel-drive system across all trims.
Find Your Ideal 2026 Eclipse Cross at St. Pete Mitsubishi
St. Pete Mitsubishi offers both the ES and LE trims of the 2026 Eclipse Cross, helping local buyers find the right mix of features and price. The ES trim delivers exceptional core value with standard S-AWC, essential driver-assist safety tech, and an 8-inch touchscreen with smartphone integration. However, for just $1,600 more, the LE trim upgrades your daily drive with 18-inch black alloy wheels, heated front seats, FAST-Key entry with push-button start, rain-sensing wipers, and stronger long-term resale appeal.
Our team at St. Pete Mitsubishi is ready to help you compare both value trims side by side, explore current financing options, and find the perfect compact SUV for your lifestyle. Stop by our Seminole showroom address today, or contact our sales specialists directly at (727) 435-1654 to schedule your test drive.
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