Comparing the Acura RSX EV and Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross, performance and features

A tale of two nameplates

Japanese automakers have long revived familiar names, often sparking mixed reactions among fans. Some revivals inspire nostalgia and loyalty, while others frustrate enthusiasts who feel the essence of a beloved model has been lost to changing market demands and corporate strategies.

The Acura RSX EV and Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross are two prime examples of this phenomenon. Both carry the legacy of once-celebrated sports cars, yet their modern identities as crossovers or EVs raise questions about whether brand heritage can coexist with today’s automotive realities.

The RSX EV arrives

Acura has reimagined the RSX as an all-electric, coupe-influenced crossover; early coverage confirms an all-wheel-drive dual-motor setup on the prototype, positioning it in the fast-growing EV-crossover segment.

This follows Acura’s recent Integra revival, which drew mixed reviews from some enthusiast outlets even as the model supported improved Acura sales early in its run, a reminder that nameplate revivals can generate controversy even when they help volume.

Reaction from enthusiasts

Early reaction appears mixed across enthusiast circles; some appreciate the modern design, while others question the link to the original RSX’s coupe ethos, pending full specs and road tests.

Acura hasn’t detailed the RSX EV’s suspension. For context, the 2002–06 RSX used MacPherson struts up front and a double-wishbone rear, a layout enthusiasts still cite today.

The overwhelming sentiment is that enthusiasts see little connection between the RSX badge and this electric SUV.

Eclipse Cross misstep

Mitsubishi faced similar backlash when it repurposed the Eclipse name in 2017. Mitsubishi instead introduced the Eclipse Cross compact crossover for 2018MY, powered in the U.S. by a 1.5-liter turbo four with a CVT, a combination reviewers regarded as competent but not especially sporty.

The crossover offered a 1.5-liter turbo engine with average output, uninspiring acceleration, and a CVT transmission that left enthusiasts disappointed. Many critics argued that the decision weakened the Eclipse brand identity and made the model an ordinary entry in a crowded SUV market.

The lost sporty edge

The RSX once defined itself with high-revving engines, precise handling, and affordability. Enthusiasts bought it for its driving engagement and everyday practicality, making it a standout in the golden era of Japanese sport compacts.

The Eclipse also enjoyed an early reputation, thanks in part to its 4G63T engine shared with the Lancer Evolution. Both cars earned credibility in tuner culture, making their later transformation into family-friendly crossovers or EVs feel like a betrayal of their roots.

A new market reality

Despite enthusiastic disappointment, Acura’s decision reflects broader industry shifts. Electric crossovers are among the fastest-growing segments, as evidenced by heritage-inspired models like the Mustang Mach-E and Hyundai Ioniq 5.

Industry estimates place a possible RSX starting price in the low-to-mid $40,000s (some outlets have projected a $40k–$55k range), but Acura has not published official pricing; use these numbers as estimates only.

Comparing performance

According to iSeeCars, past RSX models offered modest but efficient performance, with 155 horsepower and fuel economy averaging 26 miles per gallon. They were light, agile, and valued as reliable commuter cars that could double as engaging weekend rides.

Using period EPA figures, a 2006 RSX Type-S yields ~369.6 mi highway (28 mpg × 13.2 gal). A 2006 RSX base at 31 mpg highway is 409 mi; a 2006 Eclipse GT is 442.5 mi (25 mpg × 17.7 gal). Actual range varies by trim and conditions.

Pricing differences

Looking at used models, iSeeCars reports that a 2006 Acura RSX can range between $4,991 and $18,509, depending on condition. The model remains desirable among collectors and enthusiasts, helping to sustain higher resale values over time.

The Mitsubishi Eclipse, however, sits lower on the market with prices between $2,996 and $9,993 for the same year. While cheaper, this reflects weaker long-term value retention and less demand compared to the RSX, which still enjoys a cult following.

Reliability insights

Analysis suggests that both models fall within typical reliability ranges, but differences emerge in projected recalls. The RSX is estimated at 2.9 recalls over a 30-year lifetime, while the Eclipse fares slightly better at 2.1 projected recalls.

The 2006 Acura RSX earned NHTSA crash-test ratings of 5 stars front (driver and passenger), 4 stars side impact, and 4 stars rollover, while the 2006 Mitsubishi Eclipse has no NCAP or IIHS ratings listed, so it’s best to cite specific ratings or note their absence rather than generalize safety levels.

Interior space compared

Dimensionally, both models offered similar rear legroom of 29.2 inches, meaning neither was truly practical for families. The RSX provided slightly more front legroom, while the Eclipse offered a touch more shoulder room, making comfort a matter of driver preference.

Neither car prioritized cargo capacity, as both were designed as compact sporty coupes. Buyers often accepted limited practicality in exchange for style and performance, a trade-off that defined the appeal of sport compacts in the 2000s era.

Exterior and size

The 2006 RSX weighed 2,734 pounds with a length of 172.4 inches, keeping it light and agile for spirited driving. Its smaller footprint and front-wheel-drive layout emphasized efficiency and handling responsiveness.

The 2006 Eclipse, meanwhile, was heavier at 3,274 pounds and longer at 179.7 inches. While this gave it a more substantial road presence, the added weight dulled performance and fuel efficiency compared to its Acura counterpart.

Styling and colors

Acura offered the RSX in a range of youthful and vibrant colors such as Vivid Blue Pearl, Milano Red, and Jade Green Metallic, alongside traditional silvers and blacks. The palette reflected the car’s appeal to younger, style-conscious drivers.

Mitsubishi also leaned into bold paint choices, including Sunset Pearlescent orange and UV Blue Pearl. However, the car’s larger and heavier design often muted the impact of these colors, making it feel more conservative despite the available finishes.

Warranty coverage

When new, Acura’s RSX carried a four-year, 50,000-mile bumper-to-bumper warranty, plus a six-year, 70,000-mile powertrain warranty. Roadside assistance matched the four-year bumper-to-bumper period, offering reassurance for first-time sporty car buyers.

Mitsubishi countered with more generous terms. The Eclipse came with a five-year, 60,000-mile bumper-to-bumper warranty and a 10-year, 100,000-mile powertrain plan. For budget-conscious shoppers, this extended coverage gave Mitsubishi an important advantage.

Standard features

The RSX offered desirable features for its time, such as leather upholstery options, a sunroof, and a four-seat layout. Entry-level models remained simple, but the Type-S trim made it feel closer to a premium coupe with thoughtful upgrades.

The Eclipse offered comparable amenities, including available heated seats, leather, and a sunroof. It leaned more toward comfort features rather than sporty extras, signaling Mitsubishi’s intent to attract lifestyle buyers rather than hardcore enthusiasts.

Lessons from both cars

The RSX EV’s transformation into an electric SUV mirrors Mitsubishi’s Eclipse Cross pivot. Both show how manufacturers sometimes sacrifice purity to chase new markets, even if it means alienating longtime fans who still remember the original spirit.

Enthusiast disappointment does not necessarily doom sales, as the Integra proved. But heritage models always carry expectations, and when those expectations are ignored, the emotional connection weakens.

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Final comparison

According to iSeeCars, the Eclipse generally offers a bit more base horsepower and a lower used-price range, while the RSX averages better fuel economy across years and trims. Both models deliver trade-offs, with neither universally superior across all categories.

As their modern versions evolve into crossovers and EVs, the comparison underscores a larger trend: nostalgia names are increasingly tools for brand recognition rather than faithful continuations. Whether this strengthens or dilutes brand identity remains an open question.

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Impressed by how the Acura RSX EV stacks up against the Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross? Tell us which feature surprised you most or which performance detail caught your eye.

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This slideshow was made with AI assistance and human editing.