2006 Mitsubishi Eclipse Sport Coupe

2006 sees the Mitsubishi Eclipse Sport Coupe in its fourth generation, promising better handling and sleeker styling. Spring will bring the Eclipse Spyder convertible.

The model offers two trim levels: GS and GT. Under the GS hood drivers will find a 2.4-liter four-cylinder producing 162 horsepower and 162 pounds-feet of torque; it combines with a five-speed-manual or four-speed-automatic transmission.

In the GT, a 3.8-liter V-6 develops 263 hp and 260 pounds-feet of torque, and combines with either a six-speed-manual or a five-speed automatic. The automatic transmissions incorporate Sportronic, which allows manual selection of gear changes.

Mitsubishi has chosen what it terms “eye-catching colors” to outfit the new models. These include UV Blue and Rotor-Glow Pearl. Other standout design touches include a dual-split grille bracketed by single-eye headlights. All models come with a rear spoiler, and the GT Coupe sports an oversize stainless-steel exhaust pipe.

Stability and handling of the Eclipse are both improved by Mitsubishi's decision to use a flat, cross-member structure on the eclipse unibody construction. Algon with a wider stance, this improves handling without sacrificing ride comfort, which continues to be quite good for the model.

The frame is set on Aluminum-alloy wheels holding 17-inch tires, although GT coupes also offer seven-spoke 18-inch wheels. The overall wheelbase measures 101.4-inch, and the Eclipse is 179.7 inches long overall.

Inside, the Eclipse front compartment features high-backed sport seats with integrated head restraints and a four-spoke steering wheel with a soft-touch instrument panel and blue-backlighted control gauges. There are three available interior color schemes: Techno-Sports (light grey), Hi-Q (medium gray) and Avant-Garde (terra cotta).

Standard features include air conditioning, keyless entry, cruise control, power windows and locks, a leather-wrapped steering wheel and a 140-watt six-speaker CD stereo. The driver's seat is adjustable in eight different ways, and the rear seatback offers a 50-50 fold down capability. The Premium Sport Package for the GT Coupe snags the buyer heated leather front seating surfaces, automatic climate control, heated mirrors, aluminum pedals and a Rockford Fosgate audio system.

Standard safety features include six standard airbags, including the required frontal-impact airbags, seat-mounted side-impact devices and front-seat side curtain-type airbags. Antilock brakes also come standard.

Overall, the 2006 Eclipse improves on the model's longstanding reputation for offering sports car handling in a comfortable package. Steering is responsive, suspension recovers quickly from any jolts, and the car hugs the road and holds on.