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Mitsubishi Eclipse Spyder Review

January 2006
Filed under: MITSUBISHI Car News | MITSUBISHI Headlines

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Eclipse Spyder is the open-top model for the new fourth generation Eclipse coupe, which was introduced in 2005 andis acclaimed for its sporty, dynamic styling. Eclipse Spyder is the third generation open-top model. Eclipse Spyder is offered in two trim levels: the GT and the GS powered by 3.8-liter V6 and 2.4-liter 4-cylinder MIVEC engines respectively.

Design highlights


Eclipse Spyder uses sleek, taut and muscular lines to create a shape that is cool and aggressive whether the cloth top is up or down.

Large-sized headlamps crafted to flow into the bodylines, and chrome-look LED tail lamps distinguish the exterior and generate a sporty appearance with a strong sophisticated flavor.

Using aninstrument panel that houses distinctive motorcycle-inspired gauges and ice-blue night illumination for better legibility, the interior styling projects the cool image and creates the feel-good space that convertible owners look for.


Engine, transmission, and brakes


The Eclipse Spyder GT mates a 3.8-liter V6 MIVEC engine to either a six-speed manual transmission or a sport-mode equipped five-speed automatic. Pumping out a maximum of 195 kW (260 ps) and 35.7 kg-m (350 N-m) of torque, the Spyder GT accelerates from zero to 60 mph (zero to 96 km/h) in about seven seconds.

The Eclipse Spyder GS mates a 2.4-liter in-line 4-cylinder MIVEC engine to either a five-speed manual transmission or a sport-mode equipped four-speed automatic. Producing a maximum power of 119kW (162ps), the Spyder GS returns excellent fuel efficiency, rated to achieve 30 mpg (12.7 km/liter) in highway driving by EPA testing standards.

The GT employs 4-wheel disc brakes, while the GS uses a drum-in-disc system for the rear brakes.


Trim & equipment


In a premium-level design that enhances its appearance and convenience, the third-generation Eclipse Spyder features an automatic soft top which smoothly folds completely out of sight under a flush-fitting hydraulicpowered tonneau panelin about 19 seconds.

Both GT and GS trim levels come standard with 17-inch alloy road wheels, air conditioning, an advanced dual-stage driver and passenger seat SRS air bag system,head protecting seat-mounted side air bags, an anti-lock brake system (ABS) with electronic brake-force distribution (EBD[4]), cruise control, engine immobilizer and keyless entry.

Featured in Eclipse launched last year and in Outlander sold in Japan, a highly acclaimed audio system was co-developed with Rockford Fosgate® a leading American car audio system manufacturer. This premium audio system features a 650 Watt power amp with a six-disc, in-dash CD changer that can also play MP3 files.

For the Eclipse Spyder, this system features a subwoofer center-mounted underthe rear seat.

It provides unique automatic sound adjustment and equalization for the different sound conditions under top-up or top-down driving.

Leather seating surfaces, heated front seats and heated exterior mirrors together with outside temperature and compass displays standard on the GT are available as options on the GS.

GT is available with a premium package that features 18-inch alloy wheels with 235/45 R18 tires, a six-way power driver's seat, aluminum pedals and an automatic climate control system.

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