ECLIPSE SPYDER

The Mitsubishi Eclipse Spyder made its debut as a 2007 model, following the launch of the fourth-generation Eclipse coupe a year earlier. Mitsubishi describes the Spyder as an "attainable exotic," alluding to its dramatic looks and sub-$26,000 price tag. The 2012 model year will be the last for the Eclipse lineup, and Mitsubishi will offer a SE Special Edition to commemorate the sporty car's departure. 

The biggest visual distinction from the coupe is, of course, the Spyder's roof. The automatic canvas top folds under a hydraulic powered tonneau panel in about 19 seconds.

For the 2009 model year and beyond, both the Spyder and Coupe got new front and rear fascia treatments that instantly set them apart from older models while reminding onlookers of the company's performance flagship, the Lancer Evolution. Unveiled at the Chicago Auto Show in February, the new front end features a blacked-out center section that includes part of the bumper, grille and lower intake, and is somewhat reminiscent of all of Audi's nose jobs. The rear fascia now looks less bulbous thanks to a black apron replacing its lower half, which was a one-piece unit on the preceding car.

The 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.

For the Spyder GS, Mitsubishi mates an inline-four to either a five-speed manual transmission or a four-speed automatic. Producing a maximum output of 162 horsepower at 6000 rpm and 162 pound-feet of torque at 4000 rpm. The GS fuel efficiency of 26 mpg in highway driving and 19 mpg in city situations.

The more powerful Spyder GT combines a 3.8-liter V6 MIVEC engine with a five-speed automatic; the previously standard six-speed manual has been discontinued. For 2009, a 2 hp and 2 lb-ft bump courtesy of a dual exhaust system puts the new engine at 265 horsepower at 5750 rpm and 262 pound-feet of torque at 4500 rpm, enabling the Spyder GT to accelerate from zero to 60 mph in about seven seconds.

The GT has four-wheel disc brakes, with larger rear rotors for 2009, while the GS uses discs up front and a drum-in-disc system for the rear wheels. All 2009 Eclipses receive standard electronic brakeforce distribution for the ABS system as well.

Both GT and GS trim levels come standard with 17-inch alloy wheels, air conditioning, front- and side-impact airbags, anti-lock brakes, cruise control, engine immobilizer and keyless entry.

The 2009 GT also gets stability control system along with larger rear disc brakes, HID headlights, and a new spoiler as standard equipment.

A 650-watt Rockford Fosgate premium audio system is optional. Leather seats, heated front seats, heated exterior mirrors, and temperature and compass displays are 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.

Sending off the Eclipse
The SE Special Edition will offer unique "SE" side decals, black side mirrors and handsome 18-inch dark finish alloy wheels to go with standard features including leather seating with heated front seats and a power driver's seat, rearview camera, Bluetooth hands-free phone access, HID headlights with fog lamps, heated side mirrors and the audiophile-approved 9 speaker, 650-watt Rockford Fosgate audio system with SIRIUS satellite radio.