Hyundai
Kona
Mitsubishi
Eclipse Cross
Hyundai Kona vs Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross: 2025 Comparison
The short answer
Based on available data, the Hyundai Kona comes out ahead of the Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross on power. Check the specs table and owner sentiment below for the full comparison before deciding between the two. Both are covered by real owner reports on CarWizz.
Specs side by side
What owners say
Kona
Overall
Sentiment is sharply divided by powertrain and generation, with no clear consensus. Long-term owners of first-generation (approx. 2018-2023) gasoline models report a high frequency of significant mechanical and electrical issues, including chronic engine problems, rough idling, stalling, and oil consumption, leading to frustration and diminished trust in the brand. In contrast, feedback on the electric Kona (EV) is generally positive, with owners praising its reliability, range retention over high mileage, and value, though some note traction issues with front-wheel drive.
Best version to buy
For gasoline models, higher trims with the 1.6L turbocharged engine and dual-clutch transmission (DCT) are consistently recommended over base 2.0L models, which are criticized for feeling underpowered and cheap. The Limited (or equivalent top trim) is specified for its 8-speed automatic transmission (non-CVT) and premium features.
Known issues
- ⚠Chronic engine problems (stalling, rough idle, failure to start, excessive oil consumption) in first-generation gasoline models (approx. 2018-2023). Frequency: very frequent.
- ⚠Transmission issues: "Laggy" or "jumpy" feeling in DCT models; concerns over CVT reliability. Frequency: recurrent.
- ⚠Electrical and infotainment glitches: Apple CarPlay/Android Auto connectivity failures, random warning lights (check engine, collision avoidance), HVAC system malfunctioning. Frequency: recurrent.
Eclipse Cross
Overall
Mixed to negative sentiment overall, with a sharp divide between pragmatic buyers and enthusiasts. The vehicle is frequently described as a competent, practical, and reliable point-A-to-B vehicle, particularly valued for its standard or available all-wheel drive (S-AWC), high ground clearance, strong warranty (often cited as 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain or bumper-to-bumper), and aggressive dealer discounts that improve its value proposition. Owners seeking basic transportation with these features report satisfaction, especially when purchased at a significant discount.
Best version to buy
Insufficient owner data available to declare a consensus "best" trim. Higher trims (e.g., SEL with Touring Package, GT in Canada) are noted for offering desirable features like leather seats, sunroof, adaptive cruise control, heated rear seats, and a 360-degree camera system, which improve the value proposition when priced competitively against base trims of rivals.
Known issues
- ⚠Sluggish, unresponsive powertrain: 1.5L turbo engine with CVT described as asthmatic, with laggy throttle response, poor acceleration, and a dimwitted transmission tuning. Very frequent.
- ⚠Excessive road noise and harsh ride: Noted as transmitting every bump and crack into the cabin, with inadequate sound deadening, leading to a generally rough and unrefined ride quality. Very frequent.
- ⚠Cheap, low-quality interior: Interior materials feel cheap and are reported to fall apart or degrade with minimal use; hard plastics and a generally primitive design. Very frequent.
The verdict
The Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross is the better choice for most buyers.
It has stronger reliability sentiment in owner reports than the Hyundai Kona, based on the data above. If the specific known issues on the Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross are a dealbreaker, the Hyundai Kona is worth a closer look instead.
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Frequently asked questions
Which is more reliable, the Hyundai Kona or the Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross?
Owner reports lean more positive on reliability for the Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross than the Hyundai Kona. See the known issues comparison above for the specific concerns owners report on each.
Which is better for families, the Hyundai Kona or the Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross?
Data on family-specific factors like cargo space is limited for one or both models, but based on available reports, both are positioned as practical daily drivers. Check the specs table above for seating and body type.
Which has better fuel economy, the Hyundai Kona or the Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross?
Fuel consumption data is limited for one or both models. Check the specs table above for the figures available on each catalogued version.
Which is cheaper to maintain, the Hyundai Kona or the Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross?
Exact maintenance costs aren't in our data, but reliability signals above are the closest proxy: fewer reported issues generally means lower repair costs over time.