If you're shopping the Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross and you've narrowed it down to the LE and SE trims, the good news is that the automaker keeps things simple this year. Updates are small, pricing stays reasonable, and the lineup is familiar. With that in mind, here's a breakdown of the trim differences in this 2026 Eclipse Cross LE vs SE comparison.
Key Takeaways
- The 2026 Eclipse Cross receives only a few small changes for '26.
- The entire lineup remains well below the $40k mark as of December 1, 2026.
- The SE builds off the (base) LE with comfort and convenience upgrades.
For 2026, the changes are minor. The SEL and SEL Touring trims now have "Eclipse Cross" lettering across the hood, and the factory navigation system is no longer offered across the lineup.
Here's the full pricing spread for the new model year:
- ES: $29,700
- LE: $31,540
- SE: $32,640
- Ralliart: $33,370
- Black Edition: $33,790
- EL: $34,090
- SEL Touring: $36,000 (est.)
Every trim in the Eclipse Cross lineup features a 152-horsepower turbocharged 1.5-liter four-cylinder paired with a CVT. It's more about consistency than strong acceleration and daily driving without drama.
Fuel-economy figures for 2026 aren't out yet, but they should mirror the 2025 model year's numbers: 26 mpg city and 29 mpg highway.
Maximum towing remains unchanged as well, at 1,500 pounds.
2026 Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross LE vs. SE Differences
The ES trim sets the baseline for the LE with the following foundational features: 16-inch alloy wheels, LED headlights, heated side mirrors, a height-adjustable driver's seat, cruise control, automatic climate control, remote keyless entry, an 8-inch touchscreen, a four-speaker audio system, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, lane-departure warning, and automatic emergency braking. The LE builds on the ES, with 18-inch black-painted wheels, black exterior trim, heated front seats, push-button start, and automatic high beams.
The SE takes everything from the LE and steps it up, adding 18-inch two-tone wheels, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, a power-adjustable driver's seat, more USB ports, synthetic suede upholstery, dual-zone climate control, a six-speaker audio system, and a hands-free power liftgate. It also includes advanced driver-assistance features in adaptive cruise control, an upgraded automatic emergency-braking system, and blind-spot warning with rear cross-traffic alert.
If you want more equipment added on top of the SE, the Pano Sunroof package includes a panoramic sunroof and roof rails.
Which Eclipse Cross Is Your Best Bet?
Which trim is best for your lifestyle really comes down to how much comfort and tech you want day-to-day. The LE gives you a nice mix of value and style, while the SE adds more convenience, better cabin materials, and a fuller set of driver-assistance features.
When you're ready to see how both feel in person, our knowledgeable staff at St. Pete Mitsubishi is here to walk you through the experience--let's get you set up for a test drive so you can decide which trim fits your plans best!