Mitsubishi revives the Eclipse name once again, this time for a new battery-electric crossover destined for North America. The company has officially revealed the first images of the 2027 Eclipse Sportback EV, an all-new electric vehicle (EV) developed in collaboration with Alliance partner Nissan.
Scheduled to arrive in dealerships in late summer or early fall 2026, the Mitsubishi Eclipse Sportback EV will be based on the next-generation Nissan LEAF. While it shares its underlying platform and technology with Nissan’s latest EV, Mitsubishi says the model will feature unique styling elements designed to give it a distinct identity within the brand’s lineup.
The Eclipse Sportback EV adopts a sporty subcompact SUV form with a sloping roofline. Mitsubishi has equipped it with model-specific front and rear fascias, unique lighting signatures, exclusive alloy wheel designs, and the company’s signature Triple Diamond branding. The result is a vehicle that visually aligns with Mitsubishi’s current global design language while leveraging the engineering resources of the Renault-Nissan-Mitsubishi Alliance.
The announcement marks Mitsubishi’s return to the fully electric vehicle segment in North America. Although the company was among the early pioneers of EV technology with the i-MiEV, its recent electrification efforts have largely focused on plug-in hybrid vehicles such as the Outlander PHEV.
According to Mitsubishi, the Eclipse Sportback EV represents the latest step in its Momentum 2030 business strategy. The plan outlines the company’s commitment to electrification, an expanded vehicle lineup, modernization of retail operations, and stronger collaboration with its dealer network.
Mitsubishi has also reiterated its goal of introducing at least one new or significantly updated vehicle annually through fiscal year 2030. Following the Eclipse Sportback EV, the company plans to launch a rugged off-road derivative of the Outlander SUV in early 2027.
Technical specifications, battery capacity, driving range, charging performance, and pricing details have yet to be announced. However, with its Nissan LEAF roots and Mitsubishi-specific design treatment, the Eclipse Sportback EV is expected to play a key role in expanding the brand’s electric vehicle presence in North America as competition in the compact EV crossover segment continues to intensify.
Autocar’s Take
The return of the Eclipse name will inevitably spark debate among enthusiasts, but the bigger story here is Mitsubishi’s renewed commitment to battery-electric vehicles. The Eclipse Sportback EV gives the brand a much-needed entry into a fast-growing segment while taking advantage of proven Alliance technology it shares with Nissan.
For buyers, that could mean a more competitive and accessible electric crossover without the lengthy development costs of an all-new platform. Naming controversies aside, what matters most is whether the finished product delivers the range, technology, and value customers expect. If it does, Mitsubishi may finally regain momentum in the EV conversation.
