2000 Mitsubishi Eclipse: Road Test
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2000 Mitsubishi Eclipse ▼
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- MSRP: $17,697 -$26,237
- Invoice: $16,193 -$23,998
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Our road test for the 2000 Mitsubishi Eclipse includes a full evaluation of the 2000 Mitsubishi Eclipse from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2000 Mitsubishi Eclipse, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2000 Mitsubishi Eclipse help you decide if a 2000 Mitsubishi Eclipse is right for you.
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ACCELERATION
| RS, man. | GT, man. | GT, auto. | GT Sypder, auto. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5 | 7 | 6 | 6 | 5.7 |
Four-cylinder Eclipses are lively with manual transmission, sleepy with automatic. V6 is energetic with either. Test automatic GT does 0-60 mph in 8.6 sec. Though they weight a bit more, Spyders perform much like equivalent coupes.
FUEL ECONOMY
| RS, man. | GT, man. | GT, auto. | GT Sypder, auto. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 7 | 6 | 6 | 6 | 6.2 |
Extended-use test automatic GT coupe averaged 20.73 mpg over 9848 miles. Test automatic GT convertible averaged 21.8. The V6 requires premium fuel.
RIDE QUALITY
| RS, man. | GT, man. | GT, auto. | GT Sypder, auto. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4 | 4 | 4 | 4 | 3.2 |
Some wheel patter on rough roads, but Eclipse feels relatively refined for a sports coupe, with a pliant, comfortable ride.
STEERING/HANDLING/BRAKING
| RS, man. | GT, man. | GT, auto. | GT Sypder, auto. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5 | 7 | 7 | 7 | 6.8 |
Alert and responsive, with little cornering lean, and grippy front-drive predictability. Spyders show good structural stiffness that helps both ride comfort and dynamic ability.
QUIETNESS
| RS, man. | GT, man. | GT, auto. | GT Sypder, auto. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3 | 3 | 3 | 2 | 3 |
The V6 is hardly quieter than the 4-cyl. Noticeable tire noise on most surfaces, but wind rush minimal.
CONTROLS
| RS, man. | GT, man. | GT, auto. | GT Sypder, auto. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5 | 5 | 5 | 5 | 5.4 |
Mostly clear and handy, although some controls have insufficient daytime illumination.
ROOM/COMFORT/DRIVER SEATING (FRONT)
| RS, man. | GT, man. | GT, auto. | GT Sypder, auto. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4 | 4 | 4 | 4 | 4.2 |
Cabin is snug, but it has comfortable seats and feels more spacious than previous Eclipses.
ROOM/COMFORT (REAR)
| RS, man. | GT, man. | GT, auto. | GT Sypder, auto. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1.3 |
Yoda-sized. Limbo-dancer entry/exit.
CARGO ROOM
| RS, man. | GT, man. | GT, auto. | GT Sypder, auto. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5 | 5 | 5 | 1 | 2.8 |
Generous in coupes with the rear seat folded, limited in Spyders (though not by the folded top). Load lips are lofty in both body styles, and the coupe hatch lid is rather heavy.
VALUE WITHIN CLASS
| RS, man. | GT, man. | GT, auto. | GT Sypder, auto. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3 | 3 | 3 | 3 | 3.2 |
A relatively conservative nature serves the latest Eclipse well, broadening its market while keeping enthusiasts drivers entertained. Spyders have little direct competition in their price league. Coupe or convertible, a GT would be our pick, but you won't feel penalized in one of the less expensive 4-cylinder models.
Total Score
| RS, man. | GT, man. | GT, auto. | GT Sypder, auto. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 42 | 45 | 44 | 39 | 41.8 |
Total Score: 43
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