One wonders what’s up with Eclipse, as Mitsubishi says no 2010 model-year versions will be made, or sold. But 2009 models continue to be available, as before, in two configurations: Coupe ($25,998 and up) and Spyder ($32,298 and up).
While they obviously have very sporty (and appealing) shapes, Eclipse is more of a grand tourer than an outright sports car. Underneath the sheetmetal are a lot of pieces and components shared with the midsize Gallant sedan, such as its front drive architecture, and the 2.4-litre I4 and the 3.8-litre V6 engines.
The four-cylinder models (GS) come with a 5-speed manual or optional 4-speed automatic. Six-cylinder models (GT-P) come with a 6-speed manual or optional 5-speed Sportronic automatic.
For Eclipse duty the V6 has Mitsubishi's electronic valve control system (MIVEC) and produces a very healthy 265 hp and 262 lb-ft of torque. Which is good, because the Eclipse is not a lightweight.
But it drives and feels great and grabs attention wherever it goes, particularly the rag top. The Spyder’s woven soft-top is fully powered, and when down, tucks very neatly underneath a flush-mounted tonneau cover, to preserve the Eclipse’s racy profile. Mitsubishi notes that the roof has been specially designed to “resist ballooning” when at speed.
Comfort is not overlooked, with a fairly compliant ride, and lots of amenities. GT-P models have climate control, leather, and aluminum pedals. The front bucket seats have open headrests for enhanced rear visibility. Standard on GT-P Coupe and all Spyder models is a Rockford Fosgate premium stereo with subwoofer.
photo: Mitsubishi Motors
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| photo: Mitsubishi |
While they obviously have very sporty (and appealing) shapes, Eclipse is more of a grand tourer than an outright sports car. Underneath the sheetmetal are a lot of pieces and components shared with the midsize Gallant sedan, such as its front drive architecture, and the 2.4-litre I4 and the 3.8-litre V6 engines.
The four-cylinder models (GS) come with a 5-speed manual or optional 4-speed automatic. Six-cylinder models (GT-P) come with a 6-speed manual or optional 5-speed Sportronic automatic.
For Eclipse duty the V6 has Mitsubishi's electronic valve control system (MIVEC) and produces a very healthy 265 hp and 262 lb-ft of torque. Which is good, because the Eclipse is not a lightweight.
But it drives and feels great and grabs attention wherever it goes, particularly the rag top. The Spyder’s woven soft-top is fully powered, and when down, tucks very neatly underneath a flush-mounted tonneau cover, to preserve the Eclipse’s racy profile. Mitsubishi notes that the roof has been specially designed to “resist ballooning” when at speed.
Comfort is not overlooked, with a fairly compliant ride, and lots of amenities. GT-P models have climate control, leather, and aluminum pedals. The front bucket seats have open headrests for enhanced rear visibility. Standard on GT-P Coupe and all Spyder models is a Rockford Fosgate premium stereo with subwoofer.
photo: Mitsubishi Motors