2012 Mitsubishi Eclipse Summary

Overview

Mitsubishi's distinct sports coupe is back for 2012, but according to the automaker, this is its last year of production. For Eclipse enthusiasts looking to buy this boldly styled coupe in its final year, there is a new model Mitsubishi is calling the Special Edition. The Eclipse SE features black side mirrors and 18-inch dark finish alloy wheels, to name a couple features. The 2012 Eclipse is powered by a 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 162 horsepower. If you have a lead foot, Mitsubishi offers a GT model that has a 265-horsepower 3.8-liter V-6 engine under the hood. This engine is paired with a five-speed automatic transmission that incorporates Mitsubishi's Sportronic transmission technology. The GS model is the most affordable of the lineup. Standard features include a six-speaker 140-watt AM/FM/CD player with MP3 playing capability, dual exhaust, and 18-inch alloy wheels to name a few. The Eclipse is equipped with six standard airbags, as well as electronic brake force distribution. Other safety features include active stability control, and traction control logic. The standard Eclipse might be a bit light on the power for some, but the GT is a more competitive coupe.

The Range

Body Style: Coupe, Convertible 
Engines: 2.4L, I-4; 3.8L V-6 
Transmissions: 5M; 4A; 5A 
Models: GS, GS Sport, GT, SE

What's New

2012 is the last model year of production for the Eclipse and, in order to send it out on a high note, Mitsubishi has added a Special Edition model to the mix. This SE model will feature black side mirrors, dark finish alloy wheels, and an extensive list of high-end standard features seen on the GS Sport.

Exterior

The 2012 Eclipse has a very distinct look. It features fender flares that widen the vehicle's stance, as well as fog lights and a low-profile front end. The rounded rear may be considered by some to be the weak point, although the dual exhausts do help. The Eclipse rides on standard 18-inch wheels that add to the sportiness of the coupe and convertible.

Interior

The interior of the Eclipse is very sleek, which adds to the sportiness of the car. It features sporty chrome pedals. The interior control panels illuminate a light-blue color at night, and Mitsubishi says the gauges were inspired by those found on motorcycles.

Performance & Handling

While the base Eclipse's 2.4-liter engine doesn't pack much punch with 162 horsepower, the GT model is more likely to satisfy. It packs a 3.8-liter V-6 engine that produces 265 horsepower. This vehicle is paired with a five-speed automatic transmission with Mitsubishi's Sportronic transmission technology, which allows the driver to manually select gears.

Safety

The Eclipse features numerous standard safety features such as six airbags and Electronic Brake-force Distribution. Other standard features include active stability control and traction control Logic.

EPA Fuel Economy

Eclipse four-cylinder: 20/27-28 mpg city/highway 
Eclipse six-cylinder: 16-17/24-25 mpg city/highway

You'll Like

• Cheap convertible
• Powerful GT model

You Won't Like

• Bubbly styling
• Lack of power for GS model

If You Like This Vehicle You Might Also Like

• Honda Accord Coupe
• Ford Mustang
• Mazda MX-5 Miata
• Nissan Altima Coupe
• Volkswagen Eos

Review by automotive

Read more: http://www.automotive.com/2012/09/mitsubishi/eclipse/#ixzz1TQIxrorL