2007 Mitsubishi Eclipse

For 2007, the big news with the Mitsubishi Eclipse is the return of the Spyder convertible which took a hiatus for 2006. It shares the all-new platform and styling given the Eclipse coupe for 2006. The coupe is unchanged save for a new anti-theft system.

Both the Spyder and the coupe share engines and trim lines, but the Spyder comes with a completely automatic top that folds and disappears under a flush-fitting power tonneau cover in about 19 seconds. The roof is made of woven cloth and includes a full headliner, glass rear window and defroster, and is engineered to resist ballooning and wind noise.

The Eclipse coupe line-up has been trimmed down; the GT and GT-Premium have been combined into one well-equipped package, the GT-P.

The Eclipse comes as the GS, with 2.4-litre four-cylinder engine mated to a five-speed manual or optional four-speed automatic; or as the GT-P, with 3.8-litre V6, using a six-speed manual or optional five-speed automatic.

Features on the GS include 17-inch alloy wheels, variable intermittent wipers, rear wiper/washer, heated mirrors, rear spoiler, air conditioning, cruise control, power windows, power locks with keyless entry, leather-wrapped wheel, 50/50 folding rear seat, heated cloth seats, side and curtain airbags, and CD/MP3 stereo. The Spyder deletes the curtain airbags.

The GT-P adds 18-inch alloy wheels, fog lights, front strut tower bar, automatic climate control, six-way power driver’s seat, heated leather seats, auto-dimming rearview mirror, aluminum pedals, power sunroof, traction control, and six-CD premium stereo. The Spyder deletes the sunroof.

The Eclipse has matured into a stunningly styled, swoopy machine that, while not exceptionally roomy, is powerful in GT configuration. It’s comfortable to drive, albeit with considerable torque steer and a wide turning circle; the manual gearboxes are well done, and the automatics are smooth. The slip-down roof on the new Spyder just adds to the appeal, although both can get pricey when various options are added. Still, you won’t mistake this sexy styling for anything else on the road.