Looking at the 2006 Mitsubishi Eclipse is like watching a 45-year-old dad proudly strut around in his high school letter jacket – hoping that, by slipping into that youthful skin, the good old days under the limelight will suddenly reappear.
So, if the new Eclipse conjures up memories of the 1995-2001 model, that’s pretty much the intention. Back in the day, Mitsu’s sport hatch exhibited unique, fluid styling, grippy all-wheel-drive handling, and a potent turbo engine. Then came the last generation Eclipse, with Pontiac-inspired bodyside cladding, take-it-or-leave-it front-wheel drive, and a rather uninspired four-cylinder engine, with the option of a more mature and refined (a.k.a. less fun) V6. All of those legions of Mitsubishi Eclipse fans? Rolling on dubs to greener, more appealing pastures.
Taking a few steps back in time, the 2006 Mitsubishi Eclipse offers a new take on what was once a sought-after design. Smooth body lines, a unique silhouette, and up to 263 horsepower are just a few of the reasons Mitsubishi expects its updated sun blocker to draw new and old customers into quiet showrooms. Add in a 100,000-mile powertrain warranty and an entry price just below $20 grand, and Mitsubishi salespeople may soon hear something other than, “Do you have any Evos?”
