2008 Mitsubishi Eclipse
Based on analysis of 41 Eclipse reviews and test drives.
Mitsubishi Eclipse - What the Auto Press Says
The 2008 Mitsubishi Eclipse ranks 10 out of 10 Affordable Sports Cars. This ranking is based on our analysis of 41 published reviews and test drives of the Mitsubishi Eclipse, and our analysis of reliability and safety data.
The Eclipse ranks low within its class because it has the style of top-tier cars, but it can't match them in performance.
Auto reviewers say prospective buyers of the 2008 Mitsubishi Eclipse will get the look and feel of a sports car but will have to forgo power and agility. Motor Trend insists that the 2008 Mitsubishi Eclipse is a "buy it if you like it" type of car. "Some folks need more room. Others will want a harder-edged performer ... if you like the style, and want a car that's fast and fun without being a high-buck sports car, the Eclipse appeals. Whatever perspective writers take on the Eclipse, none of them deny that its price is a plus for any car shopper.
The 2008 Mitsubishi Eclipse is part of Mitsubishi's "Project America" platform, featuring other front wheel drive vehicles like the Endeavor and the Galant. The Eclipse comes in two trims, the base model GS and the GT, and is available as a convertible, the Eclipse Spyder.
- "Not everyone in this world wants a fire-breathing, rough-riding but fun-to-drive sports car. An older crowd may seek a coupe that features a bit of a softer ride and a few more luxuries while still offering that sporty look. For those of you who fit the latter category, let us now offer up the new Eclipse." -- MarketWatch
- "[I]f you don't want your car to feel old in a couple of years, Mitsubishi's futuristically retro, sporty-sounding Eclipse will keep both of you feeling young." -- Road and Track
Eclipse Performance - 7.3 (Good)
The Eclipse scores low within its class for performance because it can't match the sporty dynamics of its competitors. According to a test driver for the Washington Post: "The car moved well. But in factory dress with its standard 3.8-liter, 263-horsepower V-6 and six-speed manual transmission, it did not move as fast as rivals on the road. Drivers of V6 Ford Mustangs and Mazda RX-8 cars, for example, had no trouble overtaking me on my runs along Interstate 66 and I-81." Continue with our full Eclipse Performance Review to learn why reviewers prefer the GT over the base model. continue
Eclipse Exterior - 8.5 (Very Good)
Critics admire the Eclipse's exterior design, which ranks in the top half of its class. "Even if you weren't enamored with Mitsubishi's fourth-generation Eclipse when it was launched in late 2005, you have to admit its 'out-there' styling has staying power," comments Road and Track. Continue with our full Eclipse Exterior Review to learn why it may be difficult to maneuver in and out of its cabin when parked in tight spaces, or check out our photo gallery. continue
Eclipse Interior - 6.9 (Mediocre)
In addition to its large cargo hold, reviewers appreciate the Eclipse for its exciting interior appointments. In fact, Road and Track says, "The Eclipse's stylistic trouncing of the Altima continues to the interior, with a younger feel throughout." Still, opinion is split on the front seats and most find the rear useless. Within the class of Affordable Sports Cars, the Eclipse's interior ranks in the top half. Continue with our full Eclipse Interior Review to learn what makes its cabin so exciting, or go to the 2008 Eclipse Photo Gallery to see it for yourself. continue
Eclipse Safety - NA
The Eclipse performs well in recent crash tests conducted by the insurance industry. Though the federal government hasn't crash tested it since 2005, this year's model features loads of confidence-inspiring safety equipment -- including front-seat mounted side-impact air bags. Continue with our full Eclipse Safety Review to learn why rearward visibility is a major problem. continue
Eclipse Reliability - 5.0 (Mediocre)
The 2008 Mitsubishi Eclipse 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 basic warranty. Continue with our full Eclipse Reliability Review to learn why one reviewer believes drivers won't need to make regular use of its warranty. continue
