Mitsubishi Eclipse

The Mitsubishi Eclipse is a two-door, five-passenger sport coupe and a two-door, five-passenger convertible. The Mitsubishi Eclipse is a moderately priced sports coupe and convertible manufactured by Mitsubishi Motors. Since its debut in the 1989 model year, the Eclipse has gone through four vehicle generations. The current Mitsubishi Eclipse generation was introduced in the 2006 model year. Top competing models for the Mitsubishi Eclipse include the Honda Civic, Ford Mustang and Volkswagen GTI. In past generations, the Eclipse was also sold by Chrysler as the Eagle Talon and Plymouth Laser.

Mitsubishi Eclipse Styling

The current Mitsubishi Eclipse includes a 2-door hatchback design that is built around Mitsubishi's PS platform (also used for the Mitsubishi Galant and Mitsubishi Endeavor). The vehicle was designed to hold up to four passengers. However, as a coupe rear passenger seating is limited. Dimensions for the vehicle include a length of 179.7 inches (180.4 inches for the 2009 model), a height of 53.5 inches and a width of 72.2 inches. For the 2007 model year, a convertible version known as the Eclipse Spyder was introduced.

The 2009 Mitsubishi Eclipse featured numerous styling enhancements. Chief among these are a blacked-out front fascia that is reminiscent of the Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution, redesigned rear bumper and dual exhaust system. An optional body kit package (known as the Aero Kit) can also be purchased to modify the exterior appearance of the vehicle.

Mitsubishi Eclipse Performance

The Mitsubishi Eclipse is available in two trim levels – GS and GT (both of which can be had in the Spyder convertible form). The base GS model comes standard with a 2.4-liter 4-cylinder SOHC engine that delivers 162 horsepower. This capable engine is paired with a 5-speed manual transmission that can be upgraded to a 4-speed Sportronic automatic transmission.

The Mitsubishi Eclipse GS is outfitted with a powerful 3.8-liter MIVEC V6 engine that outputs 263 horsepower and 260 ft-lb. of torque. The standard transmission is a 6-speed manual with the option to upgrade to a 5-speed Sportronic automatic transmission. Variable valve timing (VVT) is designed to enhance performance during both low- and high-torque driving conditions. Both trim levels are only available in front-wheel drive.

Mitsubishi Eclipse Features

The Mitsubishi Eclipse GS comes standard with comfort and convenience features such as power windows, power locks, power mirrors, air conditioning, rear spoiler, automatic-off headlights, 17-inch alloy wheels and a 6-speaker stereo system with CD player and MP3 connectivity. Standard safety features include an anti-theft immobilizer, anti-lock brakes and front and side airbags. The Eclipse GT builds on these features by adding fog lamps, front strut tower bar, 4-wheel anti-lock brakes, traction control, outside temperature display and a directional compass.

Optional upgrades for the GS include a sunroof, leather upholstery, heated front seats, heated mirrors, 9-speaker stereo system, CD changer and audio controls mounted on the steering wheel. All of these may also be added to the Mitsubishi Eclipse GT, plus additional upgrades that include 18-inch alloy wheels, alloy or aluminum pedals, automatic climate control, 8-way adjustable driver's seat and auto-dimming rearview mirror.

The 2009 Mitsubishi Eclipse is a carryover from 2008. The 2009 Eclipse is available in both coupe and convertible body styles, with the convertible known as the Eclipse Spyder. Each of these body styles are available in two different trims, the GS and the GT. The GS uses a 2.4 liter, 4-cylinder engine that produces 162 horsepower and 162 lb-ft of torque. A 5-speed manual or 4-speed automatic transmission are available, and the vehicle sees fuel mileage numbers of 20 miles per gallon in city driving and 28 miles per gallon on the highway. The GT trim is equipped with a 3.8 liter V6 engine that generates a much more robust 265 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque. A 6-speed manual or 5-speed automatic handle the gear shifting duties, and fuel economy is rated at 16 miles per gallon in city driving and 25 miles per gallon during highway cruising (with the manual transmission). Fuel economy is slightly lower in the coupe than in the convertible for the 4-cylinder GS trim.