Skip to main content

Up Close: 2009 Mitsubishi Eclipse

447068176 1425510753242 jpeg

The 2009 Mitsubishi Eclipse demonstrates how one small change can have a dramatic impact on the appearance of a car. Here, that change is a new front grille, which takes on the trapezoidal design of the grille on the automaker’s Lancer Evolution sport sedan. The new grille gives the Eclipse a much more menacing shape, and it’s a look that seems likely to appeal to sports car enthusiasts.

1690787095 1425510753090 jpeg

V-6 GT models now have twin tailpipes, and their appearance brings to mind the pipes on the Nissan 350Z. The big rear wing is also new.

For the money, the Eclipse is a pretty stylish front-wheel-drive sports car. Even though the exterior changes are few for 2009, they do make an impact, which is more than can be said for many mid-cycle product updates.

More info and photos of the 2009 Mitsubishi Eclipse

Add Cars.com as a preferred source on Google
Senior Road Test Editor

I oversee Cars.com’s testing-related Editorial content, from our expert car reviews and videos to our multivehicle comparison tests. I’ve been covering the auto industry for more than 20 years, with a focus on helping shoppers find the right car for them. I’m a member of the Midwest Automotive Media Association, and I’m also a juror for the North American Car, Truck and Utility Vehicle of the Year awards. My daily driver is a Honda Odyssey minivan; my very occasional driver is a Ford Focus that’s prepped for cheap endurance racing.

Featured stories