#7

in Affordable Sports Cars

Based on analysis of 56 Eclipse reviews and test drives.

MSRP: $20,699 - $32,599
Invoice: $19,574 - $30,854
MPG: 20 City / 28 Hwy
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U.S.News Scores

Overall:7.6
Performance:7.5
Exterior:8.7
Interior:7.0
Safety:NA
Reliability:NA
Pros and Cons
  • Comfortable handling dynamics
  • Freshened exterior design looks aggressive
  • Rockford Fosgate stereo system is a reviewer favorite
  • Lengthy warranty coverage
  • Doesn't offer true sports performance
  • Braking system receives mixed reviews
  • Back seat is unsuitable for passengers
  • Rearward visibility issues

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Mitsubishi Eclipse - What the Auto Press Says

The 2010 Mitsubishi Eclipse ranks 7 out of 8 Affordable Sports Cars. This ranking is based on our analysis of 56 published reviews and test drives of the Mitsubishi Eclipse, and our analysis of reliability and safety data.

The 2010 Mitsubishi Eclipse is tamer than it looks -- perfect for anyone who would rather look the part of a driving enthusiast than have to deal with the rough ride of a serious sports car.

The Eclipse is a lot of great things, but definitely not road burner -- which doesn't seem to faze a lot of critics. "Not everyone in this world wants a fire-breathing, rough-riding but fun-to-drive sports car," writes MarketWatch. "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."

Revised in 2009, the Eclipse carries into the 2010 model year unchanged. While strong points include an aggressive-looking exterior design and sporty interior cabin, critics complain of visibility issues, a cramped backseat and lacking cargo room in the convertible.

If you're in the market for a four-passenger affordable sports car that packs more punch, test-drive the Mazda RX-8. Its racy handling dynamics will leave you floored.

The Eclipse is offered in two body styles, coupe and Spyder (convertible), as well as two trims, GS and GT.

  • "For almost two decades, the Mitsubishi Eclipse has been a mainstay of the affordable sport coupe market. Originally known for its turbocharged and all-wheel-drive performance, the Eclipse has become more comfort-oriented in recent years. But thanks to available V6 power and a sporty design inside and out, the Eclipse continues to be a solid choice." -- Edmunds
  • "You'll like the Eclipse Coupe if you are looking for an affordable, sporty-styled, modern-looking two-door that offers a substantial level of fun-to-drive performance in a moderately-priced front-wheel-drive vehicle." -- Kelley Blue Book
  • "[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
  • "The Mitsubishi Eclipse is a sporty two door, four-seat coupe with good looks and a roomy interior. It appeals to a large audience with its youthful looks and affordable price." -- AOL Autos

Eclipse Performance - 7.5 (Good)

While most test drivers find that the Eclipse's performance lags behind the competition, many concede that it's still sporty. "The Eclipse Coupe is no longer the boy-racer it once was," writes Kelley Blue Book. "Today's Eclipse has matured, engineered for the middle-of-the-road sporty driver. This is not to say the Eclipse is without some very sporty driving characteristics." The Eclipse is available with two engine options. Read More

Eclipse Exterior - 8.7 (Very Good)

Revised in 2009, the Eclipse now sports a more aggressive front and rear end, as well as a redesigned wing. According to Edmunds, "The most noticeable aesthetic change is the large trapezoidal front grille, which is reminiscent of the latest Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution and Nissan's GT-R supercar." The Eclipse is available in two body styles, coupe and Spyder (convertible). Read More

Eclipse Interior - 7.0 (Good)

Auto writers like the Eclipse's comfortable front seats and sporty interior design, but find its back seat uncomfortable for adults. "Front-seat comfort is above average for this type of vehicle, but the upright two-person rear seat is suitable for children only -- and small ones at that," writes Edmunds. Also, the coupe features significantly more cargo room than the Spyder. Read More

Eclipse Safety - NA

Neither the federal government nor insurance industry has crash tested the 2010 Eclipse. It does, however, feature loads of standard safety equipment -- including front airbags and front/rear crumple zones. Still, reviewers complain of visibility issues. Read More

Eclipse Reliability - NA

The 2010 Eclipse carries a five-year/60,000-mile basic warranty and ten-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty. It also comes with five years of roadside assistance. Read More

Review Last Updated: 8/18/09