Mitsubishi Motors North America, Inc., (MMNA) turned its iconic Eclipse sport coupe into a high-performance GT with the introduction of the fourth-generation model for 2006. The new-generation Eclipse combines "Driven to Thrill" design and performance with outstanding value to offer the sport coupe customer an "attainable exotic."
New for 2007, the 263-hp Eclipse GT offers an optional Sun and Sound Package, which bundles a power sunroof with the potent Rockford-Fosgate(R) Premium Audio system, steering wheel audio controls, and auto-dimming rear-view mirror. Previously, these features were included only in the more comprehensive Premium Sport Package, which remains available. The Sun and Sound Package is the sole factory option available for the well equipped four-cylinder Eclipse GS model. All Eclipse models for 2007 gain a new standard anti-theft system with hood switch.
"The original Eclipse helped define the sporty coupe class when it was introduced more than 15 years ago," said Dan Kuhnert, senior vice president of sales and fixed operations of Mitsubishi Motors North America, Inc. (MMNA). "While Eclipse has changed, evolving to keep step with the shifting demands of the sporty coupe segment, many coupe competitors have left the market and faded away. By offering a high level of style, performance and value, the Eclipse continues to appeal to a very broad range of driving enthusiasts."
A significant part of Eclipse's appeal is derived from its striking design, and here the Eclipse convincingly distinguishes itself from traditional, conservative or retro styling seen on some sport coupes. With athletic fender arches, a wind tunnel-inspired front fascia and long, arching C-pillar and integrated rear spoiler, Eclipse carves out its own unique style. A color-keyed aero kit is available for all models.
Two Levels of Eclipse Performance
Eclipse is offered in two trim and performance levels. The GS model is powered by a 162-horsepower, 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine, and the GT challenges more expensive sports cars with a 263-horsepower, 3.8-liter V-6 engine. Both Eclipse engines employ the Mitsubishi Innovative Valve-timing Electronic Control (MIVEC) system to help optimize engine efficiency and power across a broad engine speed range.
The GT's 260 lb.-ft. of peak torque at 4,500 rpm provide forceful off-the-line thrust. With the standard six-speed manual transmission, the Eclipse GT can accelerate from zero to 60 mph in 5.8 seconds*. The exhaust systems for both Eclipse models have been specially tuned to project a powerful, deep note through the oversize tailpipe (chrome on GT). The Eclipse GS is rated to achieve an economical 30 mpg on the EPA highway test cycle (29 mpg with optional automatic transmission).
The Eclipse GS features a standard five-speed manual transmission and offers an optional four-speed automatic. The GT has a standard six-speed manual and offers an optional five-speed automatic. Both Eclipse automatics feature Sportronic(TM) shifters to allow manual gearshift control.
* Source: Road & Track magazine
Curve-Taming Chassis Tuning
A rigid platform enables the four-wheel independent suspension to give the Eclipse sporty road manners and a compliant, comfortable ride. The front suspension uses a proven MacPherson strut design with a 22-mm stabilizer bar. On the Eclipse GT, a strut tower bar supplements the chassis rigidity.
The low-mounted multi-link rear suspension is equipped with either a 20-mm (GS) or 21-mm (GT) rear stabilizer bar. Rigid cross members also help reduce road noise and improve suspension performance by reinforcing the rear suspension mounting points to reduce flex. The wide 61.8-inch (1,570 mm) front and rear track contribute to the car's excellent stability and control. Both the Eclipse GS and GT are equipped with standard 17-inch, five-spoke aluminum wheels with 225/50R17 V-rated tires. The optional GT Premium Performance Package adds 18-inch, seven-spoke aluminum wheels and 235/45R18 V-rated tires.
All Eclipse models come equipped with standard four-wheel disc brakes with anti-lock brakes (ABS) and electronic brake-force distribution (EBD). Both models use 11.6-inch ventilated front discs. Rear brakes are 10.3-inch solid discs on the GS, and 11.2-inch ventilated discs on GT.
Comprehensive Safety
All Eclipse coupe models are equipped with advanced front airbags, front seat mounted side-impact airbags and side curtain airbags. The unibody structure features extensive reinforcement, including front and rear crumple zones, for passenger protection in the event of a collision. Robust front subframe members are connected with a dash panel crossmember and strong, front steel crossmember to help create a rigid boxed section front subframe area. Reinforced side sill members also help disperse collision energy.
High-strength steel cross members across the floor help absorb side impact energy. The front seat belts integrate pre-tensioners with force limiters. Energy absorbing materials cover the inside of the front, center and C-pillars to help reduce the possibility of injury during a collision.
Exotic Style with Everyday Comfort
Eclipse combines exotic-inspired interior design with long-distance comfort. The center dash features a prominent climate and audio control stack with large control knobs and fin-shut vents. Atop the center panel, a signature Mitsubishi LCD display provides radio, clock and directional indicators. At night, the gauges, interior control knobs, and switches are illuminated by striking ice-blue LED lamps that help create a sophisticated interior ambience.
Eclipse's high-back front bucket seats, inspired by Mitsubishi rally cars, feature integrated, open head restraints for a sporty look and enhanced rear visibility. A large-capacity glove box and numerous cubbies and storage compartments highlight everyday usability. The dash and door panels are covered in upscale, modern, padded and textured materials that match the seat coverings. Ideally positioned door panel armrests and a large center console armrest pad help make Eclipse comfortable for long drives.
The center console includes a pair of large-volume cup holders located in front of a folding storage compartment that is spacious enough to store a wallet, small purse or several CDs. Versatility extends to the cargo area, where, with both the 50:50 split-folding rear seatbacks lowered, the Eclipse provides a generous 15.7 cu. ft. of carrying capacity. The hatch features a wide opening and a low lift-over.
Ready to Rock
Eclipse owners, regardless of their age, love their music. Both Eclipse models offer an available a 650-watt (max.) Rockford-Fosgate(R) premium audio system with a 6-disc, in-dash CD changer that can play MP3 CDs. The system plays through nine speakers, including a 10-inch subwoofer. The PUNCH(R) control and Digital Signal Processor (DSP) give the user total control over the subwoofer "punch" level and provide custom music genre equalizer and sound field image settings, including: Normal, Stage, Live and Hall. A DSP sound setting memory function allows users to configure all eight DSP settings and save them in six preset locations for favorite CDs, artists, or music genres.
Mitsubishi Value
On both the Eclipse GS and GT models, the long list of standard equipment includes 17-inch alloy wheels; air conditioning; auto-off head lamps; cruise control; engine immobilizer; keyless entry; power windows, locks and mirrors. In addition to GS-level equipment, the Eclipse GT adds electronic traction control, fog lamps and a standard outside temperature and compass display.
The Eclipse GT's optional Premium Sport Package lives up to its "premium" label by equipping this model with the contents of the Sun and Sound Package plus 18-inch alloy wheels with 235/45R18 tires; an automatic climate control system; leather front seating surfaces; aluminum pedals, heated front seats and heated exterior mirrors.
All Eclipse models are built in the Mitsubishi manufacturing plant in Normal, Ill., one of the industry's most flexible assembly plants. This facility produces four different models: Eclipse coupe and Spyder, the Galant mid-size sedan and the Endeavor SUV.
Premium Warranty
Mitsubishi cars, sport utility vehicles and pickup trucks are backed by comprehensive new vehicle limited warranties. Mitsubishi cars and sport utility vehicles come with a 10-year/100,000 mile powertrain limited warranty, along with a 5-year/60,000 mile bumper to bumper new vehicle limited warranty. Mitsubishi pickup trucks are covered by a 5-year/60,000 mile bumper to bumper new vehicle limited warranty that also includes powertrain components. All Mitsubishi vehicles have a 7-year /100,000 mile anti-corrosion/perforation limited warranty, along with 5-years/unlimited miles Roadside Assistance, which includes free towing to the nearest authorized Mitsubishi retailer.
Mitsubishi Motors North America, Inc., (MMNA) is responsible for all manufacturing, finance, sales, and marketing operations of the Mitsubishi Motors Corporation in the United States. Mitsubishi Motors sells coupes, convertibles, sedans, a mid-size pickup truck and sport utility vehicles through a network of approximately 540 dealers.
