The Mitsubishi Eclipse has been gaining loyal fans over the past 16 years, and yet, in some ways, the company has been a bit of the “underdog” in the market, always fighting an uphill battle for recognition against the larger, better-established automakers. But with the 2008 Mitsubishi Eclipse, that could all change.
The Eclipse debuted back in 1990. It was an instant hit with younger American car-buyers; but by 1995, the Eclipse had been completely redesigned in order to attempt to compete with the hugely popular Honda Civic and other mid-size economy cars. Big Mistake!
While the Eclipse had its charms, it was doomed to failure in any competition with the well-established Honda Civic, and sales began to slide on subsequent year models.
Wisely, in 2007 Mitsubishi redesigned the Eclipse yet again, to bring it back closer to its roots, as a sexy urban-cruiser. The 2008 Eclipse completes this transition, and brings back the youthful “curb appeal” of the early models. It would seem that the Eclipse has finally come full circle.
From its shapely wheel-wells and well-appointed interior to its powerful 263 horsepower engine, the 2008 Mitsubishi Eclipse oozes sex appeal and playful street-machine charm. The wheel arches are flared and hint at the Eclipses street-racer background. The high-performance engine purrs seductively under the hood–until you step on it that is…
From Behind the wheel the 2008 Eclipse feels different–more alluring and, for lack of a better word, “younger” than previous models. The interior design is ergonomic, with sleek contours, featuring scooped Alfa Romeo type mph/rpm dials. The redesigned seats seem just a bit lower, while maintaining a perfect position for driving. And the engine is just a bit louder than you might expect from a Mitsubishi, hinting at power to spare under the hood.
And speaking of power under the hood, the 2008 Mitsubishi Eclipse has two well-designed engine options to choose from. The Eclipse GS model comes with a standard 2.4 liter, four cylinder engine, capable of a respectable 162 horsepower. But it’s the 2008 GT (grand touring) Eclipse that really impresses. The GT model boasts a powerful 3.8 liter V6 with an estimated 263 horsepower. Zero to 60 acceleration time is reported to be 6.1 seconds. Not too shabby by any standards.
Of course, Mitsubishi has continued their track record of safety innovations with the 2008 Eclipse. Side airbags are standard, as is an improved ABS braking system to minimize skids, and a redesigned impact-absorbing chassis. Overall, the 2008 feels solid and secure from the driver’s seat.
Appearance-wise, the 2008 model Eclipse doesn’t break a lot of new ground, but improved details in the body styling and new color options ensure that things never get boring.
While the new Eclipse may not qualify as a raw, street racing muscle-car, its high-torque engine and quick acceleration do give it a distinctive “street” feel. And the sporty but ergonomic interior has more than enough “bling factor” to impress onlookers.
Mitsubishi has finally brought the Eclipse back to its roots, and the 2008 Mitsubishi Eclipse is one mid-size coupe with enough torque and attitude to bring back the fun and excitement to your daily commute.
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This ca model is looking awesome … wud like to rock on it someday … lol
Comment by Puneet — March 17, 2008 @ 4:21 am