Fuel economy ranges from 21 in the city to 31 mpg on highways with the four-cylinder engine and from 20 to 28 with the smooth V-6, which loafs at 2,600 rpm at 65 mph. The extra power comes from such things as a higher compression ratio and a variable induction system that gives the V-6 crisper throttle response. The GT convertible is given that higher-horsepower V-6 because it's heavier than the Eclipse coupe. The GT adds a 200-horsepower V-6 for much stronger performance, while the GTS gets a new 210-horsepower version of that 3-liter V-6. It has a lot of torque for its size, but works best with the manual gearbox. The RS and GS models have a decent 2.4-liter, 147-horsepower engine, which is larger than engines in most rivals. The GTS is loaded with equipment, including leather upholstery. Even the entry RS model is pretty well equipped, with such things as air conditioning, AM/FM/CD and power windows and locks. The lowest-priced convertible is $23,817. The RS hardtop with a five-speed manual transmission is the lowest priced model at $18,137, while the fully equipped automatic-transmission version of the GTS convertible at $29,547. Order the GTS with the automatic and you get a standard traction control system at no extra cost. Turbo engines and all-wheel-drive are long gone, but the Eclipse still is offered in a variety of hardtop and convertible models in various price ranges-a marketing practice that has given it a large pool of potential buyers.Īll 2003 models are equipped with either a slick five-speed manual gearbox or responsive four-speed automatic transmission, which has a manual shift gate on higher-line Eclipses. The Eclipse has a fairly long 100.8-inch wheelbase, so the ride is generally good even with the stiffer sport suspension of the GT and GTS models. However, only the GTS is offered with anti-lock brakes, which come with front side air bags. The GT and GTS have an all-disc brake setup, while the RS and GS have rear drum brakes that are less effective during hard use, but fine for routine daily driving. The brake pedal was soft, but had a nice linear feel. However, average drivers should be able to push this car fairly hard and not get into trouble. Handling is trustworthy but not really in the sports-car class. All Eclipses have a large turning circle that can be a pain in tight spots. The steering of my test GTS coupe was quick, although a bit light. The Eclipse became more of a cruiser than a sports car with the introduction of the revamped 2000 model, which was more refined and comfortable than the earlier, wilder Eclipse, which even could be had in turbocharged form with all-wheel drive. There also are optional new steering wheel audio system controls for the GS and GT. The entry RS model has new aluminum five-spoke 15-inch wheels. The GT and GTS thus roll on new 17-inch, five-finned spoke wheels, while the mid-range GS gets new, stylish 16-inch aluminum wheels. The molded front bumper now includes cavities for the integrated fog light arrangement for the higher-line GT and and top-line GTS models. A new halogen headlight arrangement is fitted to a redesigned urethane front fascia with a redone grille air inlet. The early 2003 Eclipse has revised front and rear styling and an upgraded interior that conveys a sportier feeling. So it's no surprise that the 2003 version has bolder styling and new high-performance GTS coupe and convertible models. The Illinois-made Mitsubishi Eclipse has been the top-selling sports coupe with an import nameplate during the past decade and mainly has appealed to younger buyers.
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