Vehicle Overview
The Eclipse is Mitsubishi’s performance two-door sports car and is offered in coupe and convertible Spyder forms, both with a choice of four-cylinder or V-6 engines. Competitors include the Ford Mustang and Honda Civic Si.
New for 2011
Eclipse coupes now have a black roof. The base GS has a steel roof, while the GS Sport and GT have a power glass sunroof. The pillars remain body-colored and help form a sweeping arc along the sides of the roof. The ride height on all models is 0.6 inches lower for a more aggressive look and less aerodynamic drag. The GS Sport model, added last year, gains standard leather upholstery, heated front seats, a power driver’s seat and aluminum pedals and entrance sills.
Exterior
GS models have similar two-tone front and rear bumper fascias like the GT for a more intimidating look. A backup camera is standard on the GS Sport and GT. Exterior features include:
- Standard 18-inch alloy wheels
- Optional xenon high-intensity-discharge headlights
- Available aero kit
- Power glass sunroof (GS Sport, GT)
Interior
Although they’re listed as four-seaters, for practical purposes the Eclipse and Spyder are suitable for two adults in front and one or two children in the cramped backseat. The backseat folds on the coupe for additional cargo space. All versions have an auxiliary jack for MP3 players. Interior features include:
- Standard air conditioning, cruise control, keyless entry
- Standard jack for MP3 player
- Optional 650-watt Rockford Fosgate sound system
- Optional leather upholstery
- Optional power driver’s seat
Under the Hood
GS and GS Sport models are powered by a 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine that makes 162 horsepower and 162 pounds-feet of torque. Stepping up to the GT trim brings a 3.8-liter V-6 that delivers 265 hp and 262 pounds-feet of torque. Mechanical features include:
- Five-speed manual or four-speed automatic with four-cylinder engine
- Six-speed manual or five-speed automatic with V-6
Safety
Standard safety features include:
- Antilock brakes
- Side-impact airbags for front seats
- Side curtain airbags (coupe)
- Electronic stability system
