2006 Eclipse Options

[Mike]

Here is what Motor Trend said about the 2006 Eclipse at the detroit auto show:

2006 Mitsubishi Eclipse

The Eclipse coupe has been a franchise player for Mitsubishi since the model's introduction 15 years ago. But the previous-generation "geo mechanical" styling hasn't always rung the sales bell, so Mitsu is rolling out an all-new one for '06 that it believes will recapture the magic of the previous, turbocharged sportster. The fourth-gen Eclipse is based on a coupified version of the current Galant chassis platform. It will be available in two trim levels, and with two new powertrain offerings. The look is aggressive and ultra-modern, recalling some elements of the second-generation Eclipse, a bit of Audi TT, and a lot that's new and fresh. A 162-horse I-4 is standard; performance types will head directly for the 3.8L/260-hp V-6. This powerplant represents the company's first use of variable valve timing on a V-6, and it is backed with a new six-speed manual transmission. Serious drivers will also want the Sport Package, which includes sportier suspension tuning and 18-inch rolling stock. The new Eclipse's interior goes way up market, with serious Rockford Fosgate audio offerings, optional leather trim, and an avant garde look courtesy of Mitsu's California design studio. The 2006 Eclipse goes on sale late this spring, with pricing to be announced. If the car drives as good as it looks, we expect the Eclipse to reclaim its leadership position in the performance coupe marketplace.

Still think that they need to bring back the 4g63 AWD eclipse again!

[JBone]

This car isn't for the "tuner" it is to make a ton of sales to get Mitsus feet back on the ground. It is for the 18-30 year old woman in all reality.

I didn't know 30 year old women wanted 260hp motors in a FWD car. Up until a few years ago, Mitsubishi owned the sport compact and youth market because of the eclipse and the ability to "tune" it, including the 420A motor (boo!). They are launching this car with the hopes of taking away the SRT-4 and WRX crowd from the respective manufacturers. Stock, the 3.8 has more power than both of those cars. They DO want the tuner crowd back.

I still yearn to see an AWD model grace the frame rails of an Eclipse again. I had actually heard rumors prior to the official launch they were going to offer AWD on it, bringing my hopes up, but to no avail. When Mitsubishi thought it was best to go the convential FWD NA, Subaru decided to move in, and Mitsubishi hasn't learned what to do to counter that, at least in the lower 20s price range. The Evo is a great car, but not the affordable Eclipse we used to have that had SO much potential.