2008 Mitsubishi Eclipse Spyder
Mitsubishi Eclipse Spyder - What the Auto Press Says
The 2008 Mitsubishi Eclipse Spyder impresses reviewers with its bold styling, smooth operating convertible top and impressive standard interior features. However, most assert that the Spyder is better suited for summertime cruising than sports performance.
The 2008 Mitsubishi Eclipse Spyder's bold, sporty design makes it look the part of a performance car, but many reviewers say it isn't among the top performers in this class. It's an adequate performer with solid safety scores, and a comfortable top-down cruiser. The Spyder's performance is limited by its weight -- it's the heaviest car in this segment. For that reason, many reviews recommend that buyers look only at the higher-trim GT, which offers more power to move the car. The Detroit News speaks for most of the automotive press when it says, "If you can pop for the Eclipse Spyder with the bigger engine and live with its ample posterior, you'll probably enjoy this convertible." Reviewers say the cloth top lowers smoothly and easily, and seals well for highway driving.
Despite the hefty curb weight of the Spyder, it manages fuel economy in the middle of its class. If you're interested in saving money as gas prices rise, however, you might want to consider a MINI Cooper Convertible or a VW Eos.
The 2008 Spyder is available as a GS and GT -- the primary difference in trim being the vehicle's powerplant. The GS comes equipped with a somewhat underpowered inline four-cylinder engine rated for 162 horsepower. The GT features a more powerful V6 rated at 260-hp. Test drivers report no major stability issues caused by the Spyder's chopped-top design -- a flaw commonly found in many coupes-turned-convertibles. But few praise the heavy car's handling.
- The Spyder is "more of a grand touring car than an all-out sports car." -- Kansas City Star
- "Even with the top up, the all-new, 2007 Mitsubishi Eclipse Spyder ragtop is fun to drive. And when it's cool enough or the sun isn't so high in the sky, the Spyder is even more fun with the top down." -- Fort Worth Star-Telegram
- "Despite its aggressive styling, Eclipse proves to be more of a top-down cruiser than an agile sports car, its beefy weight and mild suspension mitigating the urge to throw it into curves." -- Arizona Republi
- "Measured fun per dollar, the Eclipse Spyder is well worth a look for anyone shopping for a sporty convertible." -- New Car Test Drive
- "The Eclipse Spyder delivers a smooth yet sporty ride, power on demand, amazing looks, a premium interior, and now, the wind in your hair--all at an attractive price." -- Motor Trend
Eclipse-Spyder Performance - 7.4 (Good)
Most auto reviewers agree that the GT's 260-horsepower V6 engine is better suited to power the 2008 Spyder's hefty curb weight than the GS's little four-cylinder. The Arizona Republic calls the smaller engine "overtaxed," adding "it's worth the extra money to spring for the GT." Many assert the Spyder handles more like a stylish cruiser than a sports car. Our full Eclipse Spyder Performance Review gives details on the car's handling performance. continue
Eclipse-Spyder Exterior - 8.2 (Very Good)
The Spyder's unique design, coupled with its quick high-quality convertible ragtop, leaves most reviewers impressed. In fact, most reviewers are so impressed by the Spyder's sleek good looks that they wind up a bit disappointed by the performance -- the sporty body makes a promise that the car's dynamics can't keep. The Kansas City Star comments, "The convertible version of the Eclipse GT has the bold styling for which Mitsubishi has become popular." Our Mitsubishi Eclipse Spyder Photo Gallery shows the look from every angle, and our full Exterior Review offers more details. continue
Eclipse-Spyder Interior - 6.0 (Mediocre)
Reviewers, on balance, are satisfied with the Spyder's fit and finish, as well as its long list of standard convenience features. Nevertheless, its inadequate backseat detracts from its overall appeal, as other convertibles in its class offer more passenger room. "The company calls Spyder a four-seater," says the Arizona Republic, "but I see no way for the back seat to accommodate regulation-sized humans." Our Eclipse Spyder Photo Gallery shows the cabin in detail, while our full Interior Review lists the amenities each trim level offers. continue
Eclipse-Spyder Safety - 9.4 (Excellent)
Although government crash tests have not been conducted by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety gives the 2007 (largely carried over for 2008) Mitsubishi Eclipse an overall rating of "Good" (the highest possible) for both frontal offset and side impact crash tests. Continue with our full Safety Review to read about available safety features. continue
Eclipse-Spyder Reliability - 5.0 (Mediocre)
The 2008 Mitsubishi Eclipse Spyder reliability score shown is the Predicted Reliability rating provided by J.D. Power and Associates. This score is based on trending the past three years of historical initial quality and dependability data from J.D. Power's automotive studies, specifically the Vehicle Dependability Study (VDS) and the Initial Quality Study (IQS). Mitsubishi offers impressive warranty coverage on all of its cars, including a five-year/60,000-mile bumper-to-bumper warranty. continue
