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2018 Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross vs. small crossover SUVs: How they compare on paper

In the midst of the crossover SUV boom, each traditional size segment has become saturated. As a result, automakers are beginning to fill the gaps that separate classes, giving us some interesting in-between options. The all-new 2018 Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross jumps right into one of those in-between categories bookended by compact and subcompact crossovers. It's a niche that offers more space and feature content than the smallest vehicles, with an extra dose of style and a lower price than bigger ones. Because of the Eclipse Cross' in-between nature, though, there's not really an obvious direct competitor. As such, we've selected a diverse group of small crossovers that are similar to the Eclipse Cross in some but not all key areas: size, price, feature content, style and likely buyers. The 2018 Subaru Crosstrek, 2018 Toyota C-HR and 2018 Nissan Rogue Sport each have elements in common, but are different enough to provide useful points of comparison. A chart of specifications and key standard features is shown below, followed by more in-depth analysis. And if you wish to compare these crossovers with others not listed, be sure to check out our comparison tools. Engines and Drivetrains One of the Eclipse Cross' biggest advantages in this segment will be its engine. Subcompact crossovers, including the other three we've chosen, are sluggish to say the least. This new Mitsubishi should be different as it packs a turbocharged 1.5-liter four-cylinder that belts out a whopping 184 pound-feet of torque. We say whopping, because the C-HR, Crosstrek and Rogue Sport all have between 139 and 147 pound-feet. Horsepower is similarly unimpressive at just 152 horsepower - the same as the Crosstrek - but that torque should make passing and on-ramp runs much more satisfying. The appeal of crossovers for many people is the availability of all-wheel-drive, and this is where the Subaru gets an advantage. Like with all Subarus that aren't a BRZ, the Crosstrek has standard all-wheel drive. The Mitsubishi comes close, making all-wheel drive standard on every trim level except the very base ES trim level. On the Rogue Sport, all-wheel drive is an option on all trim levels. Depending on where you live, though, being able to have front drive on a high-trim crossover could be a plus because it will save some money and improve fuel economy. The C-HR loses this battle as it's only available with front-wheel drive.

2019 Subaru Ascent pricing announced, starting at $32,970

Pricing for the 2019 Subaru Ascent three-row crossover SUV has been announced. Including destination, the base trim carries an MSRP of $32,970. That's with standard eight-passenger seating, and like every Ascent, a 260-horsepower turbocharged 2.4-liter boxer-4, a CVT and all-wheel drive. As a refresher, here are 15 fast facts about the 2019 Ascent. You can also see how it compares to the Honda Pilot and Toyota Highlander. Standard equipment on the base Ascent includes 18-inch alloy wheels, tri-zone climate control, EyeSight accident avoidance tech, four USB ports, and Subaru's 6.5-inch Starlink touchscreen that brings with it Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. The Ascent Premium starts at $35,170 and can be had with either 7- or 8-passenger seating (the latter includes second-row bench seating). It adds blind-spot and rear cross-traffic warning systems, privacy glass, heated mirrors, a windshield wiper de-icer, a power-adjustable driver seat, heated front seats, stain-resistant upholstery, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, rear climate controls, and an upgraded 8-inch version of StarLink. Towing capacity is also raised to 5,000 pounds. There are two optional packages available on the Premium that adds some of the upper trim levels' features. View 14 Photos The Ascent Limited starts at $39,970 with either 8- or 7-passenger seating. It adds 20-inch wheels, adaptive LED headlights, LED foglights, a power liftgate, leather seating, proximity entry and push-button start, second-row sunshades and two additional USB ports. An optional package including a panoramic sunroof, a cargo cover, integrated navigation and a Harman Kardon sound system can be added for $2,950. The top Ascent Touring costs $45,670. It includes the Limited's options plus chrome exterior trim, automatic wipers, unique Java Brown leather upholstery, a heated steering wheel, wood trim, ventilated front seats, even more USB ports (up to eight), a Cadillac-like rearview camera mirror and a 180-degree front view camera. The 2019 Subaru Ascent will arrive in dealers this summer. Related Video: This content is hosted by a third party. To view it, please update your privacy preferences. Manage Settings.

Subaru broke its own Isle of Man record with a 550-hp WRX STI

Well, they did it. Subaru of America, Prodrive, and driver Mark Higgins set out to break their own record on the Isle of Man's Snaefell Mountain Course, and the attempt was a success. Higgins covered the 37-mile course in the 2016 WRX STI Time Attack car in 17 minutes, 35 seconds. That's an average speed of 128.73 mph. Average. In a car. Higgins set the previous record, 19:26 at 116.47 mph, in a more-stock STI. He and Subaru of America have been bringing cars to the site of the motorcycle race for years now, setting automotive records as all along, but this one is going to be pretty tough to top. Subaru Prodrive Isle of Man View 4 Photos It comes pretty close to the overall lap record for the course, which was set over the weekend by Michael Dunlop. The rider set a 16-minute, 58.254-second lap in the RST Superbike TT, averaging about 133 mph. The fact the Subaru comes so close to the best bike time is pretty amazing. This year's Isle of Man TT weekend was marked by the deaths of two riders. Fatalities are a regular occurrence at the historic race around the island, but it continues to be held year after year with hundreds of participants. Related Video: Featured Gallery 2016 Subaru WRX STI Time Attack Isle of Man View 22 Photos Motorsports Subaru