Cars

Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross EV: A French Re-entry into America?

Mitsubishi is poised to launch an all-electric iteration of its Eclipse Cross, a vehicle that, beneath its Japanese badging, shares its core engineering with the award-winning Renault Scenic E-Tech. This strategic alliance could subtly reintroduce Renault's technology to the American automotive landscape, a market the French automaker exited decades ago. The vehicle blends Mitsubishi's contemporary design philosophy with a robust electric powertrain, advanced infotainment, and comprehensive driver-assistance systems, offering a compelling package for the European compact SUV segment and potentially opening doors for a broader market presence.

The Eclipse nameplate, once associated with a sporty coupe, has evolved into a compact crossover, a transformation that has generated discussion among automotive enthusiasts. This new electric variant is crucial for Mitsubishi's survival and market strategy. If this EV makes its way to the United States, it would signify more than just a new electric model; it would represent a significant, albeit indirect, return for Renault, embedding its sophisticated electric platform within an accessible American-market vehicle.

The Electric Eclipse Cross: A Gateway for Renault's American Return

The Eclipse Cross has undergone a significant transformation, evolving from its sporty coupe origins to become a compact crossover, a move critical for Mitsubishi's continued presence in the automotive market. This evolution now includes a fully electric variant, which, despite bearing the Mitsubishi badge, is fundamentally a re-engineered version of the acclaimed Renault Scenic E-Tech. Should Mitsubishi introduce this electric Eclipse Cross to the United States, it would subtly facilitate the return of Renault's advanced engineering to the American market, a presence that has been absent for decades. This strategic rebadging leverages the strengths of both brands, offering consumers a familiar nameplate with cutting-edge French electric vehicle technology underneath.

The decision to bring the electric Eclipse Cross to America would be a pivotal moment, effectively allowing Renault's CMF-EV platform to re-enter a market it left in the late 1980s following the end of its alliance with American Motors. This reintroduction would be under the guise of a Mitsubishi, making the crossover a blend of Japanese and French automotive innovation. The vehicle boasts an 87 kWh battery, providing an estimated 373 miles of range on the WLTP cycle, with a mid-range variant planned for 2026. Its permanent-magnet synchronous motor delivers approximately 214 horsepower and 221 lb-ft of torque, enabling a 0–62 mph acceleration in 8.4 seconds and a top speed of 106 mph. The Eclipse Cross EV is equipped with flexible charging options, including AC charging up to 22 kW and DC fast charging up to 150 kW, along with four levels of regenerative braking and customizable drive modes, ensuring both efficiency and responsive performance.

Advanced Design and Interior: Blending Aesthetics with Technology

Unveiled in Brussels, the electric Eclipse Cross is built on the CMF-EV platform, a foundation shared with both Renault and Nissan, showcasing a collaborative effort in electric vehicle development. The exterior design incorporates Mitsubishi's latest Dynamic Shield language, echoing the aesthetics of models like the Xforce and Destinator 7-seater SUV popular in Southeast Asia. This design features a sculpted three-dimensional grille, a wide hexagonal rear motif, and offers a choice of 19- or 20-inch wheels. With dimensions of approximately 176 inches in length, 73 inches in width, and 62 inches in height, the vehicle is perfectly positioned within the competitive European compact SUV market, balancing a modern visual appeal with practical utility.

The interior of the Eclipse Cross EV is designed to provide a premium and technologically advanced experience. A full-size electrochromic panoramic roof allows ample natural light to fill the cabin, complemented by customizable 48-color LED ambient lighting. The cockpit features a 12.3-inch portrait infotainment display seamlessly integrated with a matching digital driver screen, offering a sophisticated and user-friendly interface. Modern conveniences include Google built-in services, wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a high-fidelity 410-watt Harman & Kardon audio system, ensuring a connected and enjoyable journey. The vehicle further enhances its appeal with over-the-air update capabilities, remote functions accessible via the Mitsubishi Motors app, and an extensive array of driver-assistance features, providing a comprehensive and contemporary driving packag

Walmart's 'Incredibly Sturdy' Car Trunk Organizer: A Practical Solution for Vehicle Storage

Are you tired of a cluttered car trunk? Many drivers struggle to maintain order in their vehicle's cargo area, often finding it filled with a chaotic assortment of items, from groceries to outdoor gear. Fortunately, a highly-rated solution is now available at Walmart to help reclaim and organize this essential space.

Walmart is currently offering the AstroAI Car Trunk Organizer at a significant discount. Originally priced at $83, this robust and spacious organizer can now be purchased for just $38. This black, collapsible unit is crafted from resilient, easy-to-clean Oxford cloth, ensuring longevity and ease of maintenance. When expanded, it offers substantial storage with dimensions of approximately 15 inches long, 37 inches wide, and 13 inches tall, providing ample room for various items. Its design includes three main compartments that can be used independently or combined, 12 exterior pockets, and an elastic pocket, maximizing storage capacity. Additional practical features include detachable dividers secured with Velcro, allowing for customized organization, and a portable cooler bag that can be used within the organizer or separately. The unit is also equipped with sturdy nylon handles for easy transport, securing straps, and anti-slip pads to keep it firmly in place, along with a foldable cover for privacy and security.

Customer feedback highlights the organizer's effectiveness and durability. Reviewers consistently praise its ability to keep items secure and prevent them from rolling around, transforming previously messy trunks into well-ordered spaces. Its sturdy construction and customizable compartments are frequently cited as key benefits, making it a valuable addition for anyone seeking to enhance their vehicle's storage efficiency. This flash sale at Walmart presents an excellent opportunity to invest in a product that promises to bring lasting order to your car's trunk.

Embracing organization in our daily lives, even in seemingly small areas like a car trunk, can significantly reduce stress and improve efficiency. This practical trunk organizer not only tidies physical space but also reflects a proactive approach to managing our environments. By choosing functional and durable solutions, we contribute to a more orderly and harmonious existence, proving that thoughtful design can positively impact our everyday experiences.

See More

Hyundai's N Performance Division Set for Significant Expansion

Hyundai's high-performance 'N' division is on the cusp of a significant expansion, with plans to grow its lineup to more than seven models by 2030. This strategic move aims to push the brand's global sales for its sporty vehicles past the 100,000 unit mark. The commitment underscores Hyundai's ambition to cater to a broader audience seeking performance-oriented driving experiences, encompassing both traditional gasoline and electric powertrains.

Hyundai N Division Gears Up for Substantial Growth with New Models and Technologies

In a bold declaration, Hyundai has revealed its ambitious plans to expand its high-performance 'N' vehicle portfolio to over seven models by the close of the decade. This initiative follows the recent debut of the Ioniq 6 N electric sedan, signaling a strong push into the electric performance segment. The current N lineup, comprising the gasoline-powered i20 N, i30 N, and Elantra N, alongside the electric Ioniq 5 N and Ioniq 6 N, already features five distinct models. To reach the target of surpassing seven models and achieving over 100,000 global sales, Hyundai is clearly preparing to introduce at least two new additions.

While the specifics of these upcoming models are largely kept under wraps, industry speculation points to several exciting possibilities. The production version of the N Vision 74 concept is anticipated, likely as a limited-edition supercar rather than a mass-market offering. This suggests Hyundai is looking to establish a halo N model at the pinnacle of its performance range. For the European market, a return of N-badged gasoline cars is being considered, potentially integrating hybrid powertrains to comply with stringent emissions regulations. This could pave the way for a partially electrified Kona N or even a Tucson N, leveraging the widespread popularity of compact crossovers.

Furthermore, the recently unveiled Three Concept hatchback, which is set to evolve into the production Ioniq 3, presents a compelling candidate for an N variant, given its sporty aesthetics reminiscent of the Veloster. The prospect of an N version for the full-size Ioniq 9 SUV also remains open, especially considering Kia's successful introduction of the EV9 GT, indicating a market for high-performance electric SUVs. It is crucial to note that Hyundai's expansion strategy focuses on full-fledged N cars, distinguishing them from the N Line versions, which primarily offer cosmetic and minor performance enhancements akin to BMW's M Sport Package.

A Glimpse into the Future of High-Performance Motoring

Hyundai's aggressive expansion strategy for its N performance division is a testament to the evolving automotive landscape, where performance and sustainability are increasingly intertwined. The move to diversify the N lineup with both traditional and electrified options reflects a keen understanding of market demands and regulatory pressures. This not only promises exhilarating driving experiences for enthusiasts but also showcases Hyundai's engineering prowess and commitment to innovation across its entire vehicle range. The pursuit of over 100,000 global N sales by 2030 indicates a clear vision for the brand's performance arm, positioning it as a serious contender in the high-performance segment and offering exciting prospects for the future of motoring.

See More