2000-2005 Mitsubishi Eclipse: Road Test

More mature and refined than their rough-and-tumble predecessors, Eclipses deliver a pliant, comfortable, sporty-coupe ride. Handling is alert and responsive with little cornering lean and grippy front-drive predictability, though maneuvers are hampered by a large turning circle. Wheel patter still turns up on washboard surfaces, but it's not bothersome. Engines are much improved. Whereas the old 2.0-liter fours were throbby and loud, the new 2.4 liter is generally smooth and quiet. It packs respectable punch, at least with manual shift--which is a pleasure to use. The V6-powered GT doesn't rocket away like the old turbocharged models, but it's plenty quick--and naturally, suffers no irritating turbo lag. A GT with automatic reached 60 mph in 8.3 seconds and averaged 21.8 mpg. Surprisingly, the V6 is hardly quieter than the 4 cylinder. Furthermore, the body transmits noticeable tire noise except on glassy pavement. Wind rush is nicely tamed, even with the frameless door glass. Despite a more spacious cabin feel, Eclipses remain cozy 2+2 models with a teeny back seat and wiggle-in entry/exit. Front buckets hug one's torso, and should be comfortable on long rides. Driving positions are low-slung, and visibility remains difficult directly aft and over the shoulder. Taller drivers might wish the standard tilt steering wheel moved higher. Gauges and controls are clear and handy, but air-conditioner buttons are hard to see in daylight. Luggage space is generous in coupes with the back seat folded, limited in Spyders, but the load lip is lofty and the hatch lid heavy. Bulky doors may close with a tinny clang. Cowl shake occurs over bumps with a Spyder, but structural stiffness is acceptable and its soft top seals tightly.

Value for the Money
Though not quite as inspiring as a Honda Prelude, Eclipses compare well against most anything in their class. A GT might be the best choice, but few will feel penalized in one of the less-expensive 4-cylinder models. Spyders have no direct rivals in their price league.