Sexy curves
The Mitsubishi Eclipse has always had its share of hardcore fans and critics. The new generation, which has been gracing Canadian roads for 2-3 years now, suffers the same fate. Some are attracted by its extremely rounded derriere, while others can't seem to look beyond the fact that the Eclipse arguably borrows many styling cues from other sports coupes, particularly the Nissan 350Z.
But once you fold the top down, the Mitsubishi Eclipse Spyder finds its own unique personality. Sure, it keeps a Jennifer Lopez-like rear end, but the addition of a one-touch, retractable fabric roof gives the car a newfound maturity.
Bouncy looks
From every angle, the silhouette of the Eclipse Spyder is all about strong curves that emphasize the round shoulders and hips. The high beltline and smoothly arched roofline add to this unique look -- so much so, in fact, that I will use such qualifiers as "sensuous" and "sexy".
Inside, Mitsubishi went bold. The dashboard is clean, modern and tastefully understated. Wisely backlit circular gauges complete the picture. That being said, fit and finish could be improved in certain areas.
The nicely bolstered front seats, while not in the mold of true Recaro sports seats, offer satisfying though not class-leading comfort and lateral support. Regardless of your body size or preferences, you will easily find a good driving position.
On the other hand, while front passenger room is ample enough, don't even think about sitting two adults in the back. The bowl-shaped rear seats are quite uncomfortable and the available legroom gives a new meaning to "trivial". In other words, the Eclipse Spyder is a great little car for a weekend getaway with your wife (or husband), but a nightmare for your group of friends or teenagers.
The Mitsubishi Eclipse has always had its share of hardcore fans and critics. The new generation, which has been gracing Canadian roads for 2-3 years now, suffers the same fate. Some are attracted by its extremely rounded derriere, while others can't seem to look beyond the fact that the Eclipse arguably borrows many styling cues from other sports coupes, particularly the Nissan 350Z.
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| The Eclipse Spyder boasts a unique design that is not unattractive at all. |
But once you fold the top down, the Mitsubishi Eclipse Spyder finds its own unique personality. Sure, it keeps a Jennifer Lopez-like rear end, but the addition of a one-touch, retractable fabric roof gives the car a newfound maturity.
Bouncy looks
From every angle, the silhouette of the Eclipse Spyder is all about strong curves that emphasize the round shoulders and hips. The high beltline and smoothly arched roofline add to this unique look -- so much so, in fact, that I will use such qualifiers as "sensuous" and "sexy".
Inside, Mitsubishi went bold. The dashboard is clean, modern and tastefully understated. Wisely backlit circular gauges complete the picture. That being said, fit and finish could be improved in certain areas.
The nicely bolstered front seats, while not in the mold of true Recaro sports seats, offer satisfying though not class-leading comfort and lateral support. Regardless of your body size or preferences, you will easily find a good driving position.
On the other hand, while front passenger room is ample enough, don't even think about sitting two adults in the back. The bowl-shaped rear seats are quite uncomfortable and the available legroom gives a new meaning to "trivial". In other words, the Eclipse Spyder is a great little car for a weekend getaway with your wife (or husband), but a nightmare for your group of friends or teenagers.
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| The interior is attractive at first glance, but a closer look reveals fit and finish shortcomings. |