2008 Mitsubishi Eclipse

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By  Marty Padgett, Executive Editor

2008 Mitsubishi Eclipse GS
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The sportscar enthusiasts at TheCarConnection.com studied road tests of the 2008 Mitsubishi Eclipse to compile this conclusive review. TheCarConnection.com’s resident experts also drove the Mitsubishi Eclipse and have included opinions, driving impressions, and details where they help you to make a better car-buying decision.

Likes:
Good V-6 power
Spyder convertible version
Extensive warranty

Dislikes:
Overstyling
Capable but not nimble handling

Though the 2008 Mitsubishi Eclipse doesn't have the sharpest reflexes or handling, it offers an appealing mix of style, and with the V-6 engine, excellent power, and straight-line performance.

The 2008 Mitsubishi Eclipse coupe returns for the 2008 model year with base GS and V-6 GT versions, and a new SE version. The GS continues to be powered by a 2.4-liter, four-cylinder engine rated at 162 horsepower while the sporty GT packs a 263-horsepower 3.8-liter V-6. The SE gets either engine. The four-cylinder cars offer a five-speed manual or four-speed automatic, while the V-6 coupes come with a choice of a six-speed manual or a five-speed automatic.

There’s also the convertible 2008 Mitsubishi Eclipse Spyder, available in similar GS and GT versions. Fuel economy ranges from 20/28 mpg with the four-cylinder coupe to 16/25 mpg with the V-6, automatic-equipped Spyder.

The Mitsubishi Eclipse range has some strong points in its favor. The big V-6 is a grunty, torquey powerplant and Mitsubishi’s manual transmission shifts cleanly. The four-cylinders will play hard to keep up, though, since the Eclipse is a big, heavy two-door. And that’s also what keeps it from greatness, dynamically--since it’s based on the Galant sedan, the front-drive Mitsubishi Eclipse doesn’t have the lightest, most entertaining steering or braking. The ride quality is good, however.

The Mitsubishi Eclipse’s styling is a busy mix of straight lines and morphed, melted curves. It’s less distinctive than, say, the Ford Mustang, and not as pretty as the well-balanced Honda Accord Coupe. Inside, the plain-faced dash is made with good-quality materials and it’s fitted together well. The front seats are supportive; the rear seats are uncomfortable for adults.

The 2008 Mitsubishi Eclipse hasn’t been crash-tested by the government, but it does offer standard anti-lock disc brakes, as well as side impact and side-curtain airbags (except on the Spyder). Stability control is an option on some models.

A premium 650-watt Rockford Fosgate audio system (with a huge eight-inch rear subwoofer) is standard on the convertible Spyder. Sirius satellite radio is an option this year on all Eclipses; heated leather seats and side-view windows and automatic climate control also are available.

The Bottom Line:
The 2008 Mitsubishi Eclipse is far from the most nimble two-door on the planet, but the V-6 versions and the Spyder convertible are engaging to drive.

Other Choices:
If you like the 2008 Mitsubishi Eclipse, also consider:

- Ford Mustang
- Hyundai Tiburon
- Honda Accord Coupe

The Ford Mustang has a crisp, heritage-inspired design inside and out. It comes in V-6 and V-8 versions, with manual or automatic transmission choices, and also is offered as a convertible. The Hyundai Tiburon front-drive coupe gets four- or six-cylinder power and a choice of gearboxes, plus a slightly revamped face for 2008 (it’s due to be replaced in 2010 with a new rear-drive Genesis coupe). The Honda Accord Coupe is the most attractive front-drive coupe from Honda; its silky V-6 and sharp road manners are worth the premium price tag.

Buying Tip:
The 2008 Mitsubishi Eclipse is best savored in Spyder form, with the V-6 engine and the clean, loud Rockford Fosgate audio system. Anything less is just a commuter car.