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2012 Mitsubishi Eclipse

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$19,499

starting MSRP

Key specs

Base trim shown

Coupe

Body style

23

Combined MPG

4

Seating capacity

180.4” x 53.2”

Dimensions

Front-wheel drive

Drivetrain

Overview

(21 reviews)

The good:

  • Styling
  • Performance potential of GT
  • Warranty

The bad:

  • Front-wheel-drive layout

7 trims

Starting msrp listed lowest to highest price

Wondering which trim is right for you?

Our 2012 Mitsubishi Eclipse trim comparison will help you decide.

See also: Find the best Coupes for 2024

Notable features

  • Four-cylinder or V-6
  • Coupe or convertible
  • Black roof (coupes)

2012 Mitsubishi Eclipse review: Our expert's take

Vehicle Overview

The four-seat 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 power. Competitors include the Ford Mustang, Chevrolet Camaro and Honda Civic Si. This is the final model year for the Eclipse.

New for 2012
The Eclipse’s 18-inch alloy wheels have a dark finish, but there are no other significant changes for 2012.

Exterior
GS models have similar two-tone front and rear bumpers like the GT for a more intimidating look. Exterior features include:

  • Standard 18-inch alloy wheels
  • Optional high-intensity-discharge headlights
  • Available backup camera
  • Available aero kit
  • Available power glass sunroof

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 MP3 jack. Interior features include:

  • Standard air conditioning, cruise control, keyless entry
  • Optional Rockford Fosgate sound system
  • Optional leather upholstery
  • Optional power driver’s seat

Under the Hood
The base engine is a 2.4-liter four-cylinder 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 transmission with four-cylinder engine
  • 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

 

Consumer reviews

(21 reviews)
Rating breakdown (out of 5):
  • Comfort 4.6
  • Interior 4.1
  • Performance 4.4
  • Value 4.4
  • Exterior 4.7
  • Reliability 4.7
Write a review

Most recent consumer reviews

Awesome Cars

There is a reason I keep coming back to these gems. I'm about to purchase my 4th one. I've owned a GS for 10 years and 2 GTs for 7 years. One being a Spyder which I always said was the best car I ever owned. Perfectly balanced, fast, great looks, beatiful paint colors. A blast to drive. The interior lighting and the 650 watt Rockford Fosgate are AMAZING. Everything feels right about the car. And the cost of ownership is great, just basic maintenance. I regretted getting rid of them all (traded 2 for a Vette). After 2 years, I"m going back. Found a Spyder GT in Rave Red and it will arrive soon. I can't wait to drive this gem of a car again!

Rating breakdown (out of 5):
  • Comfort 5.0
  • Interior 5.0
  • Performance 5.0
  • Value 5.0
  • Exterior 5.0
  • Reliability 5.0
  • Purchased a Used car
  • Used for Having fun
  • Does recommend this car
6 people out of 6 found this review helpful. Did you?
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The 3rd best car i have purchased.

The car meets all of me& my wife's comforts&long term needs for travel&other endeavors. I'm not a SUV guy...but this car has changed my mind.

Rating breakdown (out of 5):
  • Comfort 5.0
  • Interior 5.0
  • Performance 5.0
  • Value 4.0
  • Exterior 5.0
  • Reliability 5.0
  • Purchased a New car
  • Used for Transporting family
  • Does recommend this car
2 people out of 7 found this review helpful. Did you?
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I Said Yes

From The Moment I sat in the driver seat I knew I wanted it,took it on test drive{fwy just happen to be right there)on the onramp I tapped the gas and said Oh yea ILL take it..I bought the GT V6 Eclipse 2008 moonroof sports edition..I thought I could turn heads before..now I have people waiting asking me questions about my car!

Rating breakdown (out of 5):
  • Comfort 4.0
  • Interior 4.0
  • Performance 5.0
  • Value 5.0
  • Exterior 4.0
  • Reliability 5.0
  • Purchased a Used car
  • Used for Having fun
  • Does recommend this car
3 people out of 3 found this review helpful. Did you?
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See all 21 consumer reviews

Warranty

New car and Certified Pre-Owned programs by Mitsubishi
New car program benefits
Bumper-to-bumper
60 months/60,000 miles
Corrosion
84 months/100,000 miles
Powertrain
120 months/100,000 miles
Roadside assistance
60 months/unlimited distance
Certified Pre-Owned program benefits
Maximum age/mileage
Less than 5 years/less than 60,000 miles
Basic warranty terms
Remainder of original 5 years/60,000 miles
Powertrain
Remainder of original 10-year/100,000 miles
Dealer certification required
123-point inspection
Roadside assistance
Yes
View all cpo program details

Have questions about warranties or CPO programs?

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