2010 MITSUBISHI ECLIPSE Review

Overview

The Mitsubishi Eclipse has been an affordable sport coupe for nearly two decades now. The 2010 Mitsubishi Eclipse delivers high performance with its V6 engine and makes its dazzling presence felt with its restyled exterior design. For the 2010 model year, the Eclipse adds the GS Sport trim that combines the aggressive exterior appearance of the GT with the fuel economy of the four cylinder GS model.

Powertrain And Performance

The front-wheel 2010 Mitsubishi Eclipse is offered in three trim levels - the GS the GT and the GS Sport. The Eclipse GS is equipped with a 2.4-liter MIVEC four-cylinder engine that delivers 162 horsepower at 6000 rpm and 162 pound-feet of torque at 4000 rpm. The Eclipse GT is powered by a 3.8-liter MIVEC V-6 engine capable of 265 horsepower at 5750 rpm and 262 pound-feet of torque at 4500 rpm. A five-speed manual transmission is standard and a four-speed automatic is optional on the GS trim, while a six-speed manual gearbox is standard and a five-speed automatic is optional on the GT version. Estimated fuel economy of the 2010 Eclipse GS vehicle is 20/28 mpg (City/Highway) and that of the Eclipse GT model is 16/25 mpg (City/Highway).

Build And Styling

The 2010 Mitsubishi Eclipse gets restyled front and rear bumper fascias on the exterior. The GT trim features a new dual exhaust system; high intensity discharge headlamps; 18-inch alloy wheels; fog lamps; and a larger rear spoiler. The well-designed interiors of the Eclipse remain almost unchanged for 2010. New cloth fabric upholstery enhances a richer feel and look. High-back front bucket seats enhance rear visibility. The hatchback body styling and a 50/50 split-folding rear seat offer cargo versatility. Standard features include air conditioning; cruise control; keyless entry; 17-inch alloy wheels (GS trim); power windows, locks and mirrors; and a 140-watt AM/FM/CD audio system with MP3 playback capability and six speakers. Two optional packages are available. The Sun and Sound Package can be chosen on both the GS and GT models. It features a 650-watt Rockford Fosgate premium audio system; sunroof; rear window wiper; aluminum pedals; auto-dimming rearview mirror; and a rear cargo shelf. Available on the GT trim only is the Premium Sport Package that adds heated front seats and mirror; heated leather front seats; power driver seat; and automatic climate control.

Safety Features

The 2010 Mitsubishi Eclipse has been built to satisfy safety needs of buyers. Standard safety techniques offered on the Eclipse include six advanced airbags; anti-lock brakes with electronic brakeforce distribution; high-tech active stability control; lower anchors in the rear seat; three-point seatbelts; head restraints; front seatbelt pre-tensioners; and a reinforced chassis.