Automotive
Mitsubishi is once again reaching into its history books, this time reviving one of its most recognizable nameplates for a brand-new electric vehicle. The automaker has officially announced the 2027 Mitsubishi Eclipse Sportback, an all-electric crossover set to arrive in North America in late summer or early fall of 2026. Developed in partnership with Nissan and based on the next-generation Nissan LEAF, the new EV represents another important step in Mitsubishi’s broader electrification strategy and its Momentum 2030 business plan.
The new Eclipse Sportback will be positioned as a sporty electric subcompact SUV, featuring Mitsubishi-specific front and rear styling, unique lighting elements, exclusive wheel designs, and the familiar Triple Diamond branding. While it will share its underlying architecture with Nissan’s upcoming LEAF, Mitsubishi says the vehicle will have its own distinct visual identity. Early teaser images suggest a sleek fastback-inspired profile that aligns with the growing popularity of coupe-like electric crossovers.
Of course, the biggest talking point is the return of the Eclipse name itself. For many enthusiasts, the Eclipse immediately recalls the sporty coupe that debuted in North America in 1990 and became a performance icon throughout the 1990s and early 2000s. We find it rather interesting that Mitsubishi continues to lean on the Eclipse name, likely believing it still carries enough recognition and nostalgia to generate interest among buyers who remember the original sports car. At the same time, it feels like an effort to distance this new EV from the somewhat frumpy reputation of both the current Eclipse Cross and the broader crossover segment. Whether the Eclipse Sportback can successfully channel any of the excitement associated with its predecessor remains to be seen, but the name alone is sure to spark plenty of discussion.
Beyond the branding strategy, the Eclipse Sportback highlights Mitsubishi’s long-standing involvement in electrification. While many consumers may associate EVs with more recent developments, Mitsubishi has been investing in battery-electric technology for decades. The company introduced the i-MiEV as one of the world’s first mass-produced electric vehicles and later helped pioneer the plug-in hybrid SUV segment with the Outlander PHEV. The Eclipse Sportback serves as the next chapter in that journey while helping Mitsubishi expand its EV footprint in North America.
The launch also marks another milestone in Mitsubishi’s commitment to refresh and expand its lineup through the end of the decade. The company has pledged to introduce at least one new or significantly updated vehicle annually through 2030, with the Eclipse Sportback expected to be followed by a rugged off-road-oriented Outlander derivative in early 2027. Technical specifications, pricing details, driving range estimates, and additional product information will be revealed closer to launch, but for now, Mitsubishi has certainly succeeded in getting people talking by bringing the Eclipse name back into the spotlight once again.
Lloyd Tobias is a seasoned automotive journalist and passionate enthusiast with over 15 years of experience immersed in the world of cars. Whether it’s exploring the latest advancements in automotive technology or keeping a close pulse on breaking industry news, Lloyd brings a sharp perspective and a deep appreciation for all things automotive. His writing blends technical insight with real-world enthusiasm, making his contributions both informative and engaging for readers who share his love for the drive. When he’s not behind the keyboard or under the hood, Lloyd enjoys test driving the newest models and staying ahead of the curve in an ever-evolving automotive landscape.
