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| Home » Mitsubishi Eclipse News » Mitsubishi Eclipse puts price on fun | ||
05/11/2006
As the fourth generation of a line introduced in 1990, the 2006 model Eclipse is the most sophisticated so far. Quick, nimble and comfortable, it isn't too harsh for long touring trips across country, yet is sporty enough to attract wannabe boy racers unable or unwilling to pony up 30 large for a 350Z. It loses a few points for its front-wheel-drive configuration, but handles remarkably well for a front driver. The exterior styling is a little more rounded than the previous generation, but still is a little more rounded than the previous generation, but stil has plenty of personality. While it probably won't turn many heads, its looks won't get stale either. A lesser four-cylinder GS version is also available. Its 162 horsepower translates into adequate transportation, but not ear-splitting grins. It costs $4,300 less than the GT and delivers better fuel economy, but just doesn't have the GT's pizzazz. If the GT is prime rib, the GS is flank steak. Virtually every piece of any consequence is new. Heading the list of new parts is the 3.8-liter V-6 replacing the old 3.0-liter V-6. Actually the new V-6 is only new to the Eclipse. It is borrowed from the Galant. Its 263 horsepower is 53 more than the previous engine. Torque is also up 55 foot-pounds to 260. The standard GT tranny is a slippery six-speed manual. Opting for the five-speed driver-shiftable automatic bloats the bottom line by $1,100. The Environmental Protection Agency rates the manual-equipped GT at 18 miles per gallon in the city and 27 on the open road. Mileage is improved by one mile per gallon with the automatic. The GT gathers itself and hops off the line with gusto. Acceleration is smooth and determined. Delivering a fair amount of feedback, the shifter feels solid and precise. Getting in sync with this spirited little coupe is no problem for the driver. It is easy to tame and quite predictable with a little experience behind its wheel. The Eclipse is a bit nose heavy, and taking a bend in the road on the hot side produces some understeer, but this is a common symptom of front-wheel drive. Cornering is neutral and the Eclipse always feels well planted. Four-wheel disc brakes supervised by an antilock system are standard and include traction control. Regrettably a stability-control system isn't available even as an option. Seventeen-inch alloy wheels are standard, but 18-inch ones are available through the $3,270 Premium Sport Package option. Billed as a four-passenger coupe, the Eclipse is best suited for two. No surprise in this segment, rear-seat room is minimal and a tad difficult to access. Anyone over the age of 16 will require some limbering up before attempting to wriggle back there. However, lifting the rear hatch reveals a generous amount of storage space. With roughly 2 extra inches added to the new Eclipse's width, shoulder and hip room are increased. Washington Times |
