4th place: Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross ES S-AWC -- $28,998
As we enter into the world of Mitsubishi – you knew that was coming, probably - we come first across the Eclipse Cross, which comes standard with AWC in the S-AWC model. You also get a 1.5L turbo engine as standard, which makes a generous 152 hp and 184 lb-ft., sent to the wheels via a CVT.
The Eclipse name may not be attached to a sports car-slash-Hollywood star as it once was, but this funky crossover makes a good case to earn the name.
See: 2022 Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross Review: A New Short-List Crossover?
Specifications sheet of the 2024 Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross ES S-AWC
3rd place: Hyundai Kona Essential AWD -- $27,999
The Kona received a redesign for 2024 and with it comes all-new front and rear facias, new interior design with more back seat space and also Hyundai’s latest infotainment system which is faster and more intuitive than previous. Given the enhancements, it’s quite a feat for Hyundai to have brought the new Kona in at such a low price point that it sits third on our 2024 list. Value lovers, take note.
Power comes courtesy of a 2.0-litre 4-cylinder engine good for 147 hp and 132 lb-ft of torque, sent to the wheels via an intelligent CVT.
See: 2024 Hyundai Kona First Drive Review: At the Adults’ Table