2006 Mitsubishi Eclipse GT Road Test

If you want to upgrade a GT with the same audio system and other features of the Sun and Sound package, you'll need to

Will the Eclipse be the car to bolster the brand's beleaguered dealers and return the automaker to profitability? (Photo: Trevor Hofmann, Canadian Auto Press)

specify the Premium Sport Package, which also comes with powered and heated leather front seats, heated mirrors, automatic air conditioning, aluminum pedals and 18-inch wheels and tires.

Of course, there may be some features that are not standard in Canada that the U.S. specified press material says will be standard in the U.S., or vice versa, but suffice it to say the Eclipse will come to market well equipped.

Will it be the car to bolster the brand's beleaguered dealers and return the automaker to profitability? On its own, probably not. But it will do much to enhance Mitsubishi's brand image, which should improve showroom traffic and in-turn sell more Lancers, Outlanders, Gallants and Endeavors. The Eclipse

In the end, the Eclipse is a car worthy of your consideration. (Photo: Trevor Hofmann, Canadian Auto Press)

should sell well too, of course, but the personal coupe segment is a niche market, compared to small and midsize cars and SUVs, and therefore it can only do so well.

What I'd like to see Mitsubishi do from here, is take advantage of its new MIVEC-enhanced V6 and 6-speed manual gearbox by dropping them into Ralliart versions of the Galant and Endeavor. While only a handful of carmakers offer powerful midsize sedans with manual gearboxes, none give the option of an SUV built for enthusiast drivers. Mitsubishi needs to be different than the other brands, to stand out and be recognized for building Lancer EVOs in every market segment. The new Eclipse will go far to do just this, and the entire brand will benefit.