Mitsubishi Eclipse

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Mitsubishi Eclipse
Overview
Manufacturer Mitsubishi Motors
Diamond-Star Motors
Production 1989–2011[1]
Assembly Normal, Illinois, United States
Body and chassis
Class Sport Compact
Chronology
Predecessor Mitsubishi Cordia
Successor None

The Mitsubishi Eclipse is a sport compact car that was in production between 1989 and 2011. A convertible body style was added for the 1996 model year. It was named after an unbeaten 18th-century English racehorse which won 26 races,[2] and has also been sold as the Eagle Talon and the Plymouth Laser captive imports through Mitsubishi Motors' close relationship with the Chrysler Corporation. Their partnership was known as Diamond-Star Motors, or DSM, and the vehicle trio through the close of the second-generation line were sometimes referred to by the DSM moniker among enthusiast circles. In Japan, it was sold at a specific retail chain called Car Plaza.

The Eclipse was officially marketed in North America, Oman, South Korea, the Philippines, Brazil, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, UAE, and China. At the end of August 2011, the final Eclipse rolled off the assembly line, and was auctioned off, the proceeds donated to charity.[3]

Models

The Eclipse has undergone four distinct generations: the first two generations (1G and 2G) share the automobile platform with the Eagle Talon, and the Plymouth Laser, and share parts, while the third generation (3G) was based on a redesigned platform and most parts are incompatible with 1G and 2G Eclipses. During May 2005, the fourth, and final, generation (4G) Eclipse was introduced.[4]

1989–1994 (1G) Mitsubishi Eclipse, Eagle Talon, and Plymouth Laser

First generation
Overview
Also called Plymouth Laser
Eagle Talon
Production 1989–1994
Body and chassis
Body style 2-door coupe
Layout Front-engine, front-/Four-wheel drive
Platform Chrysler D platform
Related Mitsubishi Galant
Powertrain
Engine 1.8 L 92 hp (69 kW) I4
2.0 L 135 hp (101 kW) I4
2.0 L 180 hp (130 kW) I4 turbo
2.0 L 195 hp (145 kW) I4 turbo
Transmission 5-speed manual
4-speed automatic
Dimensions
Wheelbase 97.2 in (2470 mm)
Length 172.8 in (4390 mm)
Width 66.7 in (1695 mm)
Height 51.4 in (1305 mm)
GSX: 52 in (1320 mm)

Timeline

Overview

1994 Mitsubishi Eclipse

The first generation Mitsubishi Eclipse was marketed as an entry to mid-level four-cylinder sports coupe. Four trim levels were available: the bottom three were front-wheel drive and the very top was all-wheel drive. The top FWD and the AWD model were equipped with turbocharged engines.

The car underwent minor changes throughout its production; 1992–1994 models (1Gb) have updated sheetmetal and are easily distinguishable from previous vehicles (1Ga). The most notable of these changes is that the 1Ga models have pop-up headlights. The Eclipse was revised into a new vehicle for 1995 and described as the second generation (2G).

Trim levels

The Eclipse was available in five trim levels during its first-generation production run. AWD models were not available until halfway through the first model year.

  • Eclipse: Base FWD model equipped with a 92 hp naturally aspirated engine 1.8 L 8-valve SOHC 4G37 engine
  • Eclipse GS: Upgraded FWD model with slightly more equipment
  • Eclipse GS DOHC: Upgraded FWD model equipped with a 135 hp (101 kW) naturally aspirated 2.0 L 16-valve DOHC 4G63A non-turbocharged variant of the 4G63T engine**
  • Eclipse GS DOHC AWD: Equipped with a 150 hp (110 kW) 4G63 16 valve non-turbocharged engine (AWD N/A only available in Europe) All were only available with 5-speed manual transmission and without rear limited slip differential. Sunroof, cruise control, ABS, central locking and A/C were in base.
  • Eclipse GST: Top FWD model equipped with a 180-195 hp* turbocharged 2.0 L 16-valve DOHC 4G63T engine
  • Eclipse GSX: AWD model equipped with a 180-195 hp* turbocharged 2.0 L 16-valve DOHC 4G63T engine

* The 1990 manual transmission turbocharged GST was rated at 190 hp, whereas the 1990 GSX manual turbo was rated at 195 hp (145 kW). This was for the purpose of offsetting the additional weight of the AWD mechanism (approximately 2,930 lbs Vs 2,570 lbs GVW). However, 1991 and later years of both turbo models standardized on the 195 hp version 4G63T. The automatic models were rated at 180 hp (130 kW) due to smaller fuel-injectors and turbocharger.

** 1990–1994 DSMs did not come with the 420A engine, which was not added until the second generation.

These models varied significantly in drivetrains and available options, and included some variance in appearance, as higher trim lines added different front and rear fascia panels and surrounding trim, with the GSX model getting a notably different styling package from the others.

Drivetrain

The basic driveline layout of the Eclipse is a transverse-mounted 4-cylinder Mitsubishi 4G37 or 4G63 engine situated on the left-hand side of the car driving an automatic or manual transmission on the right-hand side. AWD models have a different transmission which includes a limited-slip center differential and output shaft for a transfer case, which drives the rear differential (also available as limited-slip) and half-shafts.

The 4G37 and 4G63 engines are both inline-four gasoline engines. The 4G63 is composed of an iron engine block and aluminum cylinder head and is equipped with balance shafts for smooth operation. The turbocharged version of the 4G63 (sometimes referred to as the 4G63T) is equipped with a lower compression ratio (7.8 vs. 9.0 in the naturally aspirated version) and oil squirters under the pistons in order to better cope with the stress and extra heat caused by forced induction.

There is also a difference between rear axle/rear ends on all-wheel-drive models. 1990-early 1992 cars have three bolts attaching the axle to the wheel hub. Late 1992–1994 have larger-diameter axles and attach to the hub with bigger, 4-bolt axle cups.

Awards

The Eclipse Turbo was on Car and Driver magazine's Ten Best list for 1989–1992.

1995–1999 (2G) Mitsubishi Eclipse

Second generation
Overview
Also called Eagle Talon
Production 1995–1999
Body and chassis
Body style 2-door convertible
2-door coupe
Layout Front-engine, front-/Four-wheel drive
Platform Chrysler PJ platform
Related Chrysler Sebring coupe
Dodge Avenger coupe
Mitsubishi Galant
Powertrain
Engine 2.0 L 140 hp (100 kW) I4
2.4 L 141 hp (105 kW) I4
2.0 L 210 hp (160 kW) turbo I4
Transmission 4-speed automatic
5-speed manual
Dimensions
Wheelbase 98.8 in (2510 mm)
Length 1995-96: 172.2 in (4375 mm)
1997-99: 172.4 in (4380 mm)
Width 68.3 in (1735 mm)
68.5 in (1740 mm)
68.7 in (1745 mm)
Height 1995-96: 50.2 in (1275 mm)
Convertibles: 52.8 in (1340 mm)
GSX: 50.5 in (1283 mm)
1997-99: 49.8 in (1266 mm)
Curb weight Hatchback AWD: 3,269 lb (1,483 kg)
Hatchback: 2,877 lb (1,305 kg)
Convertible: 3100 lbs

Overview

The second generation car maintained the market focus of the 1G car, but had a major update in styling and had different engines between trim levels. New to the line was a convertible model, the Spyder, introduced in 1996. The convertible was available in two trims: the GS and the GS-T. The former was powered by the non-turbo 4G64 engine, and the latter by the turbo 4G63. The GSX (all-wheel-drive) hardtop model was also powered by this engine. There was no convertible model powered by the Chrysler 420a.

The turbocharged engine option continued as the 4G63, but was modified for more power as compared to the previous generation (210 hp vs 195 hp). The non-turbo equipped car had two different engines depending on the market they were produced for. The US version engines were producing 140 hp, found only in the hardtop RS and GS trims, was a modified version of the Chrysler Neon engine, manufactured by Chrysler and delivered to and installed at the Diamond Star Motors facility. The Europe version engines were naturally aspirated 4G63 with 141 hp. From 96-99 the GS Spyders were mated with the 4g64 (2.4 L) naturally aspirated engine provided by Mitsubishi.

The Talon was discontinued in 1998, along with the rest of the Eagle line, leaving only the Eclipse for sale during the 1999 model year.

Trim levels

The Eclipse was available in seven trim levels: Base [Only available in 1996.5 (mid-model year)], RS (Rally Sport), GS (Grand Sport), GS Spyder, GS-T (Grand Sport Turbo), GS-T Spyder, and GSX (Grand Sport X=AWD).

Second generations (1995–99) cars:

  • Eclipse RS: Base FWD model equipped with a 140 hp 2.0 L 16-valve DOHC Chrysler 420A engine
  • Eclipse GS: Equipment upgraded FWD model equipped with a 140 hp (100 kW) 2.0 L 16-valve DOHC Chrysler 420A engine
  • Eclipse GS Spyder: Convertible FWD model equipped with a 141 hp (105 kW) 2.4 L 16-valve DOHC Mitsubishi 4G64 engine
  • Eclipse GS-T: Hardtop FWD model equipped with a 210 hp (160 kW) turbocharged 2.0 L 16-valve DOHC Mitsubishi 4G63 engine
  • Eclipse GS-T Spyder: Convertible FWD model equipped with a 210 hp (160 kW) turbocharged 2.0 L 16-valve DOHC Mitsubishi 4G63 engine
  • Eclipse GSX: AWD model equipped with a 210 hp (160 kW) turbocharged 2.0 L 16-valve DOHC Mitsubishi 4G63 engine

The models had different trim accoutrements:

  • Base - No tachometer, standard antenna, No rear defroster, no driving lights, 14-inch steel wheels with covers or center caps, vinyl trimmed seats, rear drum brakes
  • RS - Tachometer, 14-inch alloy wheels, optional spoiler
  • GS - Power antenna, driving lights, cruise control, body coloured door handles, 15-inch alloy wheels (95-96 models), 16-inch alloy wheels (97-99 models), lower body cladding, spoiler, rear windshield washer
  • GS Spyder - Power antenna, driving lights, cruise control, body coloured door handles, 16" alloy 5 spoke wheels, lower body cladding, spoiler, double tipped stainless steel exhaust
  • GS-T - 16" Alloy 5 spoke wheels, Grey painted panel around lower body paneling (1995–96), "low rise" spoiler (95-96), "high rise" spoiler (1997–99), double tipped stainless steel exhaust
  • GS-T Spyder - 16" Alloy 5 spoke wheels, double tipped stainless steel exhaust, "low rise" spoiler for all years.
  • GSX - 17-inch wheels after 1997, 1995–96 cars had 16-inch alloys, Grey painted panel around lower body paneling (1995–96), double tipped stainless steel exhaust, "low rise" spoiler(95-96), larger spoiler (1997–99), vented rear rotors (early 95) with dual piston front calipers.
1997–1999 Mitsubishi Eclipse Spyder

A minor style revision was applied for the 1997 model year. The front grille opening was given a more aggressive profile. The headlights were given a sharper slant on the inner edges, and the previous all-chrome fixture interior changed to a black interior with chrome reflector inserts. The driving lights were revised from a reflector type to a smaller projection type. The rear bumper cap was altered and had the reverse lights restyled and moved out into the bumper fascia, away from their original central position by the license plate bracket. The interior color choices also changed from blue, and grey in 1995–1996 model years to black/grey, tan/black, and grey in the 1997–1999 model years. The black leather interior option was only available in 1999; the package included all seats (with the 'Mitsubishi' logo embroidered on both of the fronts), door inserts, and center console armrest.

A special version of the Eclipse, called the "10th Anniversary OZ Rally", was sold at the end of the 1999 model run with unique 16-inch wheels with the OZ Racing logo, though made by Enkei. It also included the leather interior package, accented exhaust exit, and hoop-style spoiler that were normally offered on some turbocharged models. The special edition package was only offered with the 420A engine.

A unique version of the 2G Eclipse sold in some European countries. It used a normally aspirated Mitsubishi 4G63 motor, similar to what was available in the 1G, unique sideview mirrors, and unique amber rear turn signals.

The Talon was available in four trim levels: Base, ESi, TSi and TSi AWD. The Eagle Talon saw its production end in 1998 when Chrysler shut down the Eagle sub-brand, although the Dodge Avenger and Chrysler Sebring continued to be sold in variations that used the 420A engine and many of the 2G Eclipse/Talon interior components.

  • Talon Base: equivalent to Eclipse Base
  • Talon ES: equivalent to Eclipse RS & GS
  • Talon TSi: equivalent to Eclipse GS-T
  • Talon TSi AWD: equivalent to Eclipse GSX

There were similar alterations to the styling of the Talon as there were for the Eclipse.

Drivetrain

The basic driveline layout of the Eclipse is a transverse-mounted 4-cylinder Chrysler 420A, Mitsubishi 4G64 or 4G63 engine. The Mitsubishi motors are mounted in the same orientation as for the 1G cars. The 420A-powered cars had the engine mounted on the right side of the car, and further back in the chassis. AWD models had a similar transmission to the 1G car. The 2G GSX also had a stronger carrier/differential when equipped with the limited slip option.

Engine

All motors are 4-cylinder gasoline engines. All have iron blocks with aluminum cylinder heads. The 4G63/4G64 engines retain the balance shafts for smoother operation, while the 420At does not use them. The 1995–1999 turbo engines were given an increased compression ratio of 8.5:1, up from 7.8:1, and a smaller turbo, a Garrett T25 in place of the previous Mitsubishi TD04-13G (automatic cars) and TD05-14B (manual cars). This was done to minimize turbo lag, which was an undesirable trait for mass-market appeal in the U.S.

The 4G63 engines found in 1990–1994 models have a 60 mm throttle body compared to the 1995–1999 MY's 52 mm. The intake ports on the head and runners of the intake manifold are also larger. They also have larger crankshaft bearing journals to allow better lubrication.

Mitsubishi Motors quietly updated its 4G63 engine in 1998 and 1999. The crankshaft is more precisely shaved and cut compared to previous years. It is identical to what one would find in a Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution, which was not yet sold in North America until 2003. The thrust bearings have been revised to a "split" type to allow better lubrication and self-alignment with the crankshaft. It also had improved tuning & functionality, thanks to a new ECU, which was similar to Lancer Evolution ECUs.

2000–2005 (3G) Mitsubishi Eclipse

Third generation
Overview
Production 2000–2005
Body and chassis
Body style 2-door convertible
2-door coupe
Layout FF layout
Platform Chrysler ST-22 platform
Related Chrysler Sebring coupe
Dodge Stratus coupe
Mitsubishi Galant
Powertrain
Engine 2.4 L 150 hp (110 kW) I4
2.4 L 150 hp (110 kW) I4
3.0 L 200 hp (150 kW) V6
3.0 L 210 hp (160 kW) V6
Transmission 4-speed automatic
5-speed manual
Dimensions
Wheelbase 100.8 in (2560 mm)
Length 2004-05: 176.8 in (4,491 mm)
2000-03: 175.4 in (4,455 mm)
Width 68.9 in (1,750 mm)
Height 2001-05 Coupe: 51.6 in (1,311 mm)
Spyder: 52.8 in (1,341 mm)
2000: 51.8 in (1,316 mm)
Curb weight Coupe: 2,822 lb (1,280 kg)
Convertible: 3,042 lb (1,380 kg)
2000–2002 Mitsubishi Eclipse coupe

The Eclipse underwent a change into its third generation in 1999, closely aping the Mitsubishi SST design study which debuted at the 1998 North American International Auto Show. It was the first concept vehicle exhibited by Mitsubishi at an auto show in the U.S.[5]

The 4G63 was replaced by two powertrain options, a 147 hp 2.4 L 16-valve SOHC 4-cylinder 4G64 and a 205 hp 24v SOHC 3.0 L V6 (6G72). AWD was no longer an option. The suspension setup was adjusted to provide a softer and more compliant ride quality.

The third generation Eclipse shared its powertrain with the 8th generation Galant. In late 2001, power was lowered to 200 hp (150 kW) as a result of tightened emission standards forcing MMNA to adopt the California standards for all variants of the car.

In mid-2002, the GTS trim was introduced for the 2003 model year. This vehicle included an engine with a 10:1 compression ratio and an improved Mitsubishi Variable Induction Management (MVIM) air intake system that gave the car an extra 10 hp (7.5 kW) and a slightly improved power curve. The 2003–2005 GTS and GT/GTS Spyder shared the new engine while GT models retained the 200 hp (150 kW) powertrain. From 2003 to 2005, the Eclipse Spyder V6 was sold in a right-hand drive version in Japan.

2003 facelift

With the introduction of the 2003 GTS model, the Eclipse saw minor changes including a sleeker front bumper with slotted fog lights, as well as a recoloring of the tail lights. On the interior, the gauge face changed, and the door panels were redesigned. 2003 also saw the introduction of newly designed chrome, five-spoke, wheels for the GT and GTS trims.

Trim levels

The Eclipse was available in 7 trim levels: RS, GS, GS Spyder, GT, GT Spyder, GTS, and GTS Spyder. All trim levels (besides Spyder) came with an automatic tilt and retracting sunroof. All models were FWD. The GTS trims were introduced in 2003, the RS trim was dropped in 2005, and for that model year, they introduced the Remix Edition package only available on the GS and GS Spyder 4-cylinder with the same GS wheels now painted chrome, Remix Edition Badges, 6 Disc CD Changer and leather upholstery from some of the GT V6 models and all GTS V6 models, the first in stock 4-cylinder Eclipse history.

Third Generations (3G)(2000–2005):

Eclipse RS & GS: Base model FWD equipped with a 150 hp 2.4 L 16-valve SOHC Mitsubishi 4G64 engine

Eclipse GS Spyder: Convertible FWD model equipped with a 150 hp 2.4 L 16-valve SOHC Mitsubishi 4G64 engine

Eclipse GT: Hardtop FWD model equipped with a 200 hp 3.0 L 24-valve SOHC Mitsubishi 6G72 engine

Eclipse GT Spyder: Convertible FWD model equipped with a 200 hp 3.0 L 24-valve SOHC Mitsubishi 6G72 engine (upgraded to 210 hp 3.0 L 24-valve SOHC Mitsubishi 6G72 engine with MVIM beginning with the 2003 model year.)

Eclipse GTS: Hardtop FWD model equipped with a 210 hp 3.0 L 24-valve SOHC Mitsubishi 6G72 engine with Mitsubishi Variable Induction Management (MVIM)

Eclipse GTS Spyder: Convertible FWD model equipped with a 210 hp 3.0 L 24-valve SOHC Mitsubishi 6G72 engine with MVIM

ECU trims for GT models

  • Fed Spec: Fed Specs only affect 2000 and some 2001 models, Manufactured from August 1999 to late October 2000, these GTs came with 205 hp (153 kW) and 205 ft·lbf (278 N·m). The Fed Spec GT is most recognizable for having one catalytic converter (cat) and two O2 sensors, with one sensor before the cat and the other after.
  • Cali Spec: Cali Specs in 2000 were primarily shipped to California because of the more stringent emission laws; although other areas of North America received them as well. The Eclipse GT line was switched over for cost reasons to the Cali Spec, so only one version of the GT would be manufactured. Cali Specs came with 5 hp (3.7 kW) less and 5 ft·lbf (6.8 N·m) less. Cali Spec emissions control are three catalytic converters and four O2 sensors. After each exhaust header is a sensor followed by a pre-cat then the main cat after y-pipe then two more O2 Sensors.

Safety

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has determined crash test ratings of Eclipse of different model years:[6]

Model year Model Type Frontal driver rating Frontal passenger rating Side driver rating Side passenger rating 4x2 Rollover
2002 Eclipse 2-DR N/A
2003 Eclipse 2-DR N/A
2005 Eclipse 2-DR N/A N/A

2001 Mitsubishi Eclipse EV

The Mitsubishi Eclipse EV is a prototype electric vehicle with a lightweight electric motor and lithium-ion batteries in the chassis of a third generation Eclipse. It is powered by manganese lithium-ion batteries made by Japan Storage Battery, which have 65% reduced charging time over nickel-hydrogen batteries.

It participated in the 2001 Shikoku EV Rally, a 780 km circuit around the perimeter of Shikoku, Japan, where it drove in excess of 400 km on a single battery charge.[7]

2006–2011 (4G) Mitsubishi Eclipse

Fourth generation
Overview
Production 2006–2011
Body and chassis
Body style 2-door convertible
2-door coupe
Layout FF layout
Platform Mitsubishi PS platform
Related Mitsubishi Endeavor
Mitsubishi Galant
Powertrain
Engine 2.4 L 162 hp (121 kW) I4
3.8 L 263 hp (196 kW) V6
Transmission 4-speed automatic
5-speed automatic
5-speed manual
6-speed manual
Dimensions
Wheelbase 101.4 in (2575 mm)
Length 2006-08: 179.7 in (4565 mm)
2009-Present: 4,583 mm (180.4 in)
Width 72.2 in (1835 mm)
Height 2006-2010: 53.5 in (1360 mm)
2006–2010 Spyder: 54.4 in (1383 mm)
2006–2010 GT Spyder: 54.7 in (1390 mm)
2011-: 1,351 mm (53.2 in)
2011- Spyder: 1,375 mm (54.1 in)
Curb weight 3,472lbs/1,574 kg

Another substantial styling revision was introduced, with the new model taking some of the profile from the second generation model but maintaining a front fascia consistent with Mitsubishi's current corporate styling features. Drivetrain features of the new model include a 263 hp (196 kW) 3.8 L MIVEC V6 for the GT trim, 2009 and newer models have 265 hp. The non-turbo GS has a 162 hp (121 kW) 2.4 L MIVEC I4, both derived from the Mitsubishi PS platform family, with which the Eclipse shares many mechanical components. Like the 2004 Galant, the new Eclipse is FWD only, although a concept model has been produced by Mitsubishi and Ralliart with a MillenWorks designed hybrid-electric AWD platform, the 4G63 engine from the Lancer Evolution, and more aggressive body styling with imitation carbon fiber accents.[8] The V6 produces 263 hp (196 kW) and 260 ft·lbf (350 N·m) of torque.

The fourth-generation Spyder (convertible) Eclipse was released for the 2007 model year at the North American International Auto Show.

Trim levels

For the 2010 model year in the U.S., its primary market, the Eclipse was available in five trim levels: GS, GS Sport Spyder, GS Sport, GT, and GT Spyder. In Mexico, the GT Spyder is known as the Eclipse Convertible. In Canada, the GT trim is known as the GT-P.

4G cars:

  • Eclipse GS: Base FWD model equipped with a 162 hp (121 kW) 2.4 L 16-valve SOHC Mitsubishi 4G69 engine
2007 Mitsubishi Eclipse Spyder
2007 Mitsubishi Eclipse Spyder
  • Eclipse GS Sport Spyder: Convertible FWD model equipped with a 162 hp (121 kW) 2.4 L 16-valve SOHC Mitsubishi 4G69 engine
  • Eclipse GS Sport: Base FWD model equipped with a 162 hp (121 kW) 2.4 L 16-valve 4-cylinder MIVEC Engine
  • Eclipse GT: Hardtop FWD model equipped with a 263 hp 3.8 L 24-valve SOHC Mitsubishi 6G75 engine, 2009–2012 models have 265 hp
  • Eclipse GT Spyder: Convertible FWD model equipped with a 260 hp 3.8 L 24-valve SOHC Mitsubishi 6G75 engine, 2009–present models have 263 hp

The models and standard / optional equipment:

  • GS Standard- Choice of five-speed manual or a four-speed Sportronic automatic transmission, a 140-watt (max.) Mitsubishi CD/MP3-compatible audio system with six speakers, 17-inch alloy wheels, an anti-theft immobilizer, auto-off halogen headlamps, power windows/locks/mirrors, air conditioning, a split fold-down rear seat, two 12-volt accessory outlets, anti-lock brakes, a rear spoiler, and a six airbag safety system.

Options Include - Sun & Sound package with a power sunroof is paired with a 650-watt (max.) Rockford Fosgate audio system. Boasting nine speakers including a 10-inch (250 mm) trunk-mounted subwoofer, a 6-CD in-dash changer, and steering wheel-mounted audio controls, the package also includes a center display with outside temperature and compass readings and an electrochromic rear-view mirror. A four piece body kit comes as an optional "aero kit" package for all models.

  • GS Spyder - available for sale for the 2007 model year.

Options Include - GS Deluxe Leather Package: Leather front seating surfaces. Heated front seats. Heated side mirrors. Outside temperature indicator and compass in center dash display.

  • GT Standard- Choice of six-speed manual or a five-speed Sportronic automatic transmission, a 140-watt (max.) Mitsubishi CD/MP3-compatible audio system with six speakers, 17-inch alloy wheels, an anti-theft immobilizer, auto-off halogen headlamps, fog lamps, power windows/locks/mirrors, air-conditioning, a split fold-down rear seat, two 12-volt accessory outlets, 4-wheel anti-lock disc brakes, a rear spoiler, dual-stage six airbag safety system, traction control, a front strut tower bar, and a center display with outside temperature and compass readings.

Options Include- Premium Sport Package with 18 in (460 mm) seven-spoke alloy wheels, leather front seating surfaces, a power sunroof, an eight-way-adjustable (six power) driver's seat, alloy pedals, heated front seats, heated door mirrors, automatic dimming rear-view mirror, air-conditioning and a 650-watt (max.) Rockford Fosgate audio system with nine speakers, including a 10-in (254 mm) trunk-mounted subwoofer, a 6-CD/MP3-compatible in-dash changer, steering wheel-mounted audio controls.

  • GT Spyder - available for sale for the 2007 model year.

Options Include - GT Premium Sport Package: 18-inch Alloy wheels. Leather front seating surfaces. 6-way power driver's seat. Heated front seats. Heated side mirrors. Aluminum pedals. Automatic climate control. Wind Deflector

2009 facelift

2009 Mitsubishi Eclipse

The Mitsubishi Eclipse was given a minor facelift for the 2009 model year, the front fascia changed the fog lights and deleted the triangle housing the "three diamond" logo used to sit on in the grille; the rear fascia changed the "Eclipse" insignia from an indent to raised silver letters. An option to add a dual exhaust and projector H.I.D. headlamps also became available. The V6 engine now rated at 265 hp and 262 lb-ft torque.[9] It was unveiled at the 2008 Chicago Auto Show.

2011 facelift

The 2011 Mitsubishi Eclipse featured a "blackout" roof, similar to the 1990 version. For 2011, Mitsubishi lowered the suspension of Eclipse about half an inch, which created a lower center of gravity.[10] Mitsubishi also added a rear backup camera and Bluetooth hands free calling to the Sun and sound package. In the GS trim, the car gets the same 18-inch wheels and blackout front end as the GT model called the GS Sport.[11]

2012 facelift

2012 Mitsubishi Eclipse SE

For the 2012 model year, the Mitsubishi Eclipse receives three (slight) changes: Brake override logic, a clear lip spoiler on the GT trim, and one new exterior color. This was the final model year, albeit a short run because production ended in August 2011.[12][13]

Last Eclipse

The last Eclipse to roll off the assembly line was built in August 2011, painted Kalapana Black, its color was chosen from by members of Mitsubishi’s Facebook community, who picked from a historical Eclipse color palette. This was the only Eclipse equipped with both the 3.8L/265 hp V-6 engine and the commemorative SE package, as well as special 18-inch Dark Argent alloy wheels and one of a kind graphics. It is also built with a sunroof, leather interior, 650W Rockford Fosgate 9-speaker audio system with Sirius XM, hands free Bluetooth phone interface, rear-view camera, and HID headlights.

The car was auctioned off by Mecum Auctions in St. Charles, IL on September 17, 2012, for $35,000.[14] Proceeds went to the Japanese Red Cross to aid victims of the 2011 Tōhoku earthquake and tsunami.[15]

Grand total Eclipse production was 906,876 units.[16]

Motorsport

The Eclipse, and its DSM brethren, have seen competition in Sports Car Club of America (SCCA) events.

In 2009 and 2010, a convertible Eclipse GST driven by Matt Andrews and Andrew Brilliant won the Super Lap Battle Limited championship in Willow Springs, California.[17]

In 2012, a heavily built and tuned Mitsubishi Eclipse piloted by Mark Rybníček won the Czech Hill Climb championship.[18]

Brent Rau has won three world drag racing championships using an Eclipse; IDRC, NDRA and NHRA.[19] Many other notable names have also claimed big wins piloting Eclipses for drag racing use.[20]

Notes

  1. ↑ Beene, Ryan (25 April 2011). "Mitsubishi to halt U.S. production of 3 models in August". Automotive News. Retrieved 30 July 2013. 
  2. ↑ "Facts & Figures". Mitsubishi Motors. 2006. p. 29. Retrieved 30 July 2013. 
  3. ↑ "Mitsubishi plans to halt U.S. production of 3 models in August". Autoweek.com. 25 April 2011. Retrieved 30 July 2013. 
  4. ↑ "All-New 2006 Mitsubishi Eclipse Sport Coupe to Go on Sale Ahead of Schedule". Theautochannel.com. 19 May 2010. Retrieved 30 July 2013. 
  5. ↑ "MITSUBISHI SST Concept Car On Display At Detroit Motor Show (Press Release)". Media.mitsubishi-motors.com. 1998-01-06. Retrieved 2010-10-24. 
  6. ↑ "1990–2010 Search Results by Model". NHTSA.GOV. Retrieved 2011-03-17. 
  7. ↑ "Latest MMC technologies and near-future goals: Mitsubishi Eclipse EV Prototype". Mitsubishi-motors.com. Retrieved 2012-12-26. 
  8. ↑ "Mitsubishi SST Concept Car on Display at Detroit Motor Show" (Press release). MillenWorks. 2005-11-20. Retrieved 2010-10-24. 
  9. ↑ Road Test: 2009 Mitsubishi Eclipse Spyder
  10. ↑ "2011 Eclipse Coupe; Exotic Styling & More". Mitsubishicars.com. 2010. Retrieved 2010-10-24. 
  11. ↑ "2011 Eclipse Coupe; Exotic Styling & More MPG". Mitsubishicars.com. 2010. Retrieved 2010-10-24. 
  12. ↑ "2012 Eclipse Coupe; Exotic Styling & More MPG". Mitsubishicars.com. 2011. Retrieved 2011-03-12. 
  13. ↑ "2012 Mitsubishi Eclipse". autos.aol.com. 2011. Retrieved 2011-03-12. 
  14. ↑ Lingeman, Jake (2011-01-09). "Mecum to auction last Mitsubishi Eclipse for earthquake relief". Autoweek. Retrieved 2012-01-02. 
  15. ↑ "2012 Mitsubishi Eclipse SE Coupe Proceeds to benefit the Japan Red Cross". Mecum.com. Retrieved 2012-01-02. 
  16. ↑ Hoffman, Steve (17 September 2011). "Final Eclipse fetches $35K in auction". Pantagraph.com. Retrieved 30 July 2013. 
  17. ↑ Super Lap Battle 2009 Champion Time Attack Mitsubishi Eclipse GST Spyder on YouTube
  18. ↑ 650 HP Mitsubishi Eclipse Gsx Hill Climb Rally Car - 2012 Czech Champion on YouTube
  19. ↑ FASTEST 4 BANGER IN THE WORLD (DSM) on YouTube
  20. ↑ gabytech for DSM Forums. "4G63 History in drag racing". Dsmtuners.com. Retrieved 30 July 2013. 

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