Mitsubishi Revives Eclipse Name for New Electric Hatchback

S. electric vehicle market with the 2027 Eclipse Sportback, a compact four-door hatchback that revives a classic nameplate nearly a decade after the company's last EV effort, the short-range i-MiEV, failed to gain traction. The new model offers a projected 282 miles of range and is essentially a rebadged version of the redesigned 2026 Nissan Leaf, which has seen slow sales since its launch.

A test drive of a pre-production prototype around Seattle found the car peppy and fun to drive, with quiet cabin operation and minimal electrical whine. 9 seconds and 261 pound-feet of torque. It is exclusively front-wheel drive, with five levels of regenerative braking plus an extra boost mode, though it doesn't offer full one-pedal operation.

Exterior differences from the Leaf include redesigned front lights, a grille with 20 vertical ridges flanking the Mitsubishi logo, unique wheels, chrome accents on the C-pillars, and a rear liftgate with large Mitsubishi lettering. 3-inch touchscreen, with standard Android Auto and Apple CarPlay.

The sole trim level offers a Technology package with a panoramic roof, power liftgate, Bose audio, and roof rails.

2 kW. The car includes a heat pump for cabin and battery temperature management, two 120-volt outlets for powering accessories, and a 56-cubic-foot cargo area with rear seats folded.

Mitsubishi plans to prioritize deliveries to zero-emission vehicle mandate states, starting with California and other Western and Northeastern markets. The warranty covers five years or 60,000 miles on the vehicle and 10 years or 100,000 miles on the battery and powertrain, with free maintenance for two years.

Pricing will be announced closer to the October on-sale date, with estimates ranging from $35,000 to $40,000.