The Mitsubishi Eclipse->ke251 receive a minor face lift in 2009, and the diamond star brand from Japan is continuing the trend with with an even more drastic makeover in 2010. The latest version of the fourth generation Eclipse features restyled front and rear fascias. The 2010 Eclipse gets a new monochromatic with a two tone bumper insert while the GT variant features a large rear spoiler and a few new exterior hues, Carbon metallic and Solar vibrant yellow. The GS Sport model combines the aggressive exterior appearance of the GT with the fuel economy of the four cylinder GS model and Eclipses equipped with the standard cloth interior feature upgraded fabrics.

The GS version is powered by a 2.4 Liter four cylinder engine making 162 HP, while the GT variant gets a 3.8 Liter V6 that pumps out a total of 265 HP and can accelerate from 0 to 60 MPH in about six seconds.

Press release after the jump.

2010 Mitsubishi Eclipse

Specifications
  • Make: Array
  • Model: 2010 Mitsubishi Eclipse
  • Engine/Motor: V6
  • Horsepower: 265 HP
  • [do not use] Vehicle Model: Array

Press release

Mitsubishi Motors North America, Inc., (MMNA) is introducing its revised 2010 Eclipse, which arrives in dealerships this summer. Restyled front and rear bumper fascias helped distinguish the Eclipse models for 2009, with the GT also sporting a new large rear spoiler. The GT model also gained standard high intensity discharge (HID) head lamps for 2009, further sharpening front styling while aiding visibility for nighttime driving. For the 2010 model year, the Eclipse adds the GS Sport trim that combines the aggressive exterior appearance of the GT with the fuel economy of the four cylinder GS model.

The 2010 Eclipse GT announces its presence a bit more strongly, thanks to a new dual exhaust system introduced in 2009 that yields a more powerful sound while also boosting horsepower to 265 (up from 263). Already equipped with a full array of proven safety technology, the Eclipse GT gained Active Stability Control (ASC) as standard equipment in 2009. Additional features include the availability of Bluetooth connectivity in addition to rearview camera with screen in rear view mirror.

Newly styled single-color front and rear bumper fascias lend a more defined appearance to the Eclipse GS, while the new two-tone bumper fascias for the GT model further emphasizes its road-hungry stance. The "attainable exotic" design of the fourth-generation Eclipse is further underscored for 2010 by the availability of a moody new exterior hue, Carbon metallic and Solar, a vibrant new yellow. Models with the standard cloth interior feature upgraded fabrics.

Audio Superpower


The Rockford-Fosgate 650-watt (max.)audio system that is part of the optional Sun & Sound Package available for the GS and GT models is among the most powerful factory-installed mobile audio systems in the market today. The option features a 6-disc, in-dash CD changer that can play MP3 CDs, and also includes SIRIUS® Satellite Radio with a 3-month pre-paid subscription. SIRIUS Satellite Radio provides digital sound quality, seamless coast-to-coast coverage, and nearly 200 channels of programming, many of them commercial-free.

The Rockford-Fosgate system plays through nine speakers, including a 10-inch subwoofer. The PUNCH® control and Digital Signal Processor (DSP) give the user total control over the subwoofer's "punch" level and provide custom music-genre equalization as well as sound field image settings, including: Normal, Stage, Live and Hall. A DSP sound setting memory function allows users to configure all eight DSP settings and save them in six preset locations for favorite CDs, artists, or music genres.

The Sun & Sound Package, as its name might suggest, also adds a power sunroof with sunshade. In addition, the package includes an array of comfort and convenience features, including steering wheel audio controls, auto-dimming rear-view mirror. On the GS, the package also adds a glove box with damper, illuminated ignition key cylinder and a windshield shade band, all of which are already standard on the GT model.

The optional Premium Sport Package for the Eclipse GT combines all the features of the Sun & Sound Package with automatic climate control, leather seating, a power driver's seat, heated front seats and heated exterior mirrors. Also with this package, the GT's 18-inch alloy wheels feature a distinctive machine finish with argent background.

Eclipsing the Competition


Eclipse is offered in two trim and performance levels. The GS model is powered by a
162-horsepower, 2.4-liter 4-cylinder engine. With a 265-horsepower, 3.8-liter V-6 engine, the Eclipse GT plays in a serious league of performance cars. Both Eclipse engines employ the Mitsubishi Innovative Valve-timing Electronic Control (MIVEC) system to help optimize engine efficiency and power across a broad engine speed range. The GT's 262 lb.-ft. of peak torque at 4,500 rpm provides forceful off-the-line thrust. With the standard 6-speed manual transmission, the Eclipse GT can accelerate from zero to 60 mph in about six seconds.

The Eclipse GS features a standard 5-speed manual transmission and offers an optional 4-speed automatic. The GT offers an optional 5-speed automatic. In both Eclipse models, Sportronic™ console shifters allow manual gearshift control.

Curve-Taming Chassis Tuning


A rigid platform enables the 4-wheel independent suspension to give the Eclipse sporty road manners and a compliant, comfortable ride. The front suspension uses a proven MacPherson strut design with a 22-mm stabilizer bar.

On the Eclipse GT, a strut tower bar supplements chassis rigidity. The low-mounted multi-link rear suspension is equipped with either a 20-mm (GS) or 21-mm (GT) rear stabilizer bar. All Eclipse models come equipped with standard 4-wheel disc brakes with 11.6-inch ventilated front discs, anti-lock (ABS) and electronic brake-force distribution (EBD). Rear brakes are 10.3-inch solid discs on the GS, and 11.2-inch ventilated discs on GT.

The Eclipse GS rolls on standard 17-inch aluminum-alloy wheels with 225/50R17 V-rated tires (18-in. with SE). The GT features standard 18-inch alloy wheels with 235/45R18 V-rated tires. A standard Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) on all models can alert the driver to the potentially hazardous condition of having too-low air pressure in one or more tires.

Comprehensive Safety


All Eclipse coupe models are equipped with advanced dual front airbags, front seat mounted side-impact airbags and side curtain airbags. The front seat belts integrate pre-tensioners with force limiters. Energy absorbing materials cover the inside of the front, center and C-pillars to help reduce the possibility of injury during a collision.

The Eclipse unibody structure features extensive reinforcement, including front and rear crumple zones, for passenger protection in the event of a collision. Robust front subframe members are connected with a dash panel crossmember and strong, front steel crossmember to help create a rigid boxed section front subframe area. Reinforced side sill members also help disperse collision energy, and high-strength steel cross members across the floor help absorb side impact energy.

Exotic Style with Everyday Comfort

Eclipse combines exotic-inspired interior design with long-distance comfort. The dash and door panels are covered in upscale, modern, padded and textured materials that match the seat coverings. The center dash features a prominent climate and audio control stack with large control knobs and fin-shut vents. Atop the center panel, a signature Mitsubishi LCD screen provides radio and clock displays plus compass and ambient temperature indicators in certain models. At night, the gauges, interior control knobs, and switches are illuminated by striking ice-blue LED lamps.

Eclipse's high-back front bucket seats feature integrated, open head restraints for a sporty look and enhanced rear visibility. A large-capacity glove box and numerous cubbies and storage compartments highlight everyday usability. With both the 50:50 split-folding rear seatbacks lowered, the Eclipse provides a generous 15.7 cu. ft. of carrying capacity, and the hatch features a wide opening and a low lift-over.

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Specifications

ENGINE


Engine Type

2.4L MIVEC

3.8L MIVEC

Engine Code

4G69

6G75

Valve Train

SOHC 16VALVE

SOHC 24Valve

Displacement (cu. in./cc.)

145.1/2378

233.6 / 3828

Bore x Stroke (in./mm)

3.43x3.94/87.0x100.0

3.74 x 3.54 / 95.0 x 90.0

Compression Ratio

9.5 : 1

10.5 : 1

Horsepower @ RPM (BHP)

162@6000

265@5750

Torque @ RPM (lbs-ft)

162@4000

262@4500

Engine Block

Cast Iron

Cast Iron

Cylinder Heads

Aluminum

Aluminum

Redline RPM

6500

6500

Fuel System

MPI

MPI

Recommended Fuel

Unleaded (Regular)

Unleaded (Premium)

Radiator Core size

747x350x16 (mm)

747x350x16 (mm)

Engine Oil Type

5W-20

5W-20

Engine Oil Capacity (qt/L)

3.2-4.2/3.0-4.0

3.2-4.2/3.0-4.0


Transmission

Transmission Type

5MT

S-4AT

6MT

S-5SAT

1st

3.583

2.842

3.214

3.789

2nd

1.947

1.573

2.238

2.162

3rd

1.379

1.000

1.535

1.421

4th

1.030

0.688

1.171

1.000

5th

0.767

N.A.

1.085

0.686

6th

N.A.

N.A.

0.790

N.A.

Reverse

3.363

2.214

3.456

3.117

Final Drive Ratio

4.312

4.212

3.777/ 3.238 *1

3.325


Exterior Dimensions

  • Wheelbase (in/mm)     101.4 / 2575
  • Length (in/mm)     180.4/ 4583
  • Width (in/mm)     72.2 / 1835
  • Height (in/mm)     53.5 / 1358
  • Track, Front (in/mm)     61.8 / 1570
  • Track, Rear (in/mm)     61.8 / 1570
  • Min. Ground Clearance (in/mm)     5.8 / 148


Interior Dimensions

  • Interior Volume (cu ft)     97.3
  • Passenger Volume (cu ft)     81.6
  • Cargo Area (cu ft)     15.7
  • Maximum Seating Capacity 4


Passenger Space

  • Head Room (Front) (in/mm)     38.5 / 979
  • Shoulder Room (Front) (in/mm)     54.2 / 1377
  • Hip Room (Front) (in/mm)     53.7 / 1363
  • Leg Room (Front) (in/mm)     42.8 / 1088
  • Head Room (Rear) (in/mm)     34.6 / 878
  • Shoulder Room (Rear) (in/mm)     51.2 / 1300
  • Hip Room (Rear) (in/mm)     44.4 / 1127
  • Leg Room (Rear) (in/mm)     29.2 / 741

Major Standard Features

  • 140-watt AM/FM/CD audio system with MP3 playback capability and six speakers
  • 17-in. alloy wheels (GS)
  • 50:50 split fold-down rear seat backs
  • Air conditioning
  • Dual-stage front air bag SRS with front passenger occupant sensors
  • Front seat mounted side-impact air bags
  • Front seat side curtain air bags
  • Anti-lock brake system (ABS) with Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD)
  • Cruise control
  • Engine immobilizer anti-theft system
  • Keyless entry
  • Power windows, locks and mirrors
  • Tilt steering wheel
  • Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)


Eclipse GT adds:

  • 265-hp 3.8-liter V-6 engine
  • 6-speed manual transmission
  • 18-in. alloy wheels with 235/45 R18 tires
  • Active Stability Control
  • Center display with outside temperature and compass
  • Dual exhaust system
  • Electronic traction control
  • High-intensity discharge (HID) head lamps
  • Large rear spoiler
  • Larger ventilated rear disc brakes
  • Fog lamps


Optional Sun and Sound Package (GS, GS Sport and GT):

  • 650-watt (max.) Rockford-Fosgate Premium Audio system with SIRIUS Satellite Radio, including 3-month pre-paid subscription
  • Aluminum pedals (GS)
  • Auto-dimming rear-view mirror
  • Center display with outside temperature and compass (standard on GT)
  • Glovebox with damper (GS)
  • Illuminated ignition key cylinder (GS)
  • Power glass sun roof
  • Steering wheel audio controls
  • Rear cargo shelf (GS)
  • Rear window wiper (GS)
  • Windshield shade band (GS)
  • Available Bluetooth connectivity
  • Available rearview camera with screen in rearview mirror


Optional GT Premium Sport Package (GT Only):

  • 650-watt (max.) Rockford-Fosgate Premium Audio system with SIRIUS Satellite Radio, including 3-month pre-paid service subscription
  • Aluminum pedals
  • Aluminum scuff plates
  • Automatic climate control system
  • Auto-dimming rear view mirror
  • Heated front seats
  • Heated mirrors
  • Leather front seating surfaces
  • Power drivers seat
  • Power glass sun roof
  • Steering wheel audio controls
  • Machine finish 18-in. alloy wheels

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Prices and options

Description

Eng./Tran

Price

Comments

Eclipse GS SOHC 16 Valve I4 MIVEC

2.4L/5M

$20,699.00

3-Door Coupe, 5-Speed Manual

Eclipse GS SOHC 16 Valve I4 MIVEC

2.4L/4S

$21,699.00

3-Door Coupe 4-Speed Sportronic

Eclipse GS-Sport SOHC 16 Valve I4 MIVEC

2.4L/4S

$24,699.00

3-Door Coupe 4-Speed Sportronic

Eclipse GT SOHC 24 Valve V6 MIVEC

3.8L/6M

$28,089.00

3-Door Coupe 6-Speed Manual

Eclipse GT SOHC 24 Valve V6 MIVEC

3.8L/5S

$29,089.00

3-Door Coupe 5-Speed Sportronic


Factory Options

Premium Sport Package

Power Glass Sunroof, Leather Seating Surfaces w/ Heated Front Seats, 18" Alloy Wheels w/ 235/45/R18 All-Season Tires, 650W (max) Rockford Fosgate, Premium Audio System w/ 9 Speakers Incl. 10" Subwoofer AM/FM/6-Disc In-Dash Changer, SIRIUS Satellite Radio w/ 3mo Service Provided by Sirius from Date of Sale, Steering Wheel Audio Controls, Bluetooth Hands-Free Phone System, Power Driver Seat & Heated Sideview Mirrors, Electrochromic Rearview Mirror w/ Monitor, Rearview Camera System, Large Rear Spoiler, HID Projector-Type Headlights, Aluminum Scuff Plates & Pedals, Automatic Climate Control

INCL

Sport Aero Kit

$1,299.00

Accessory Package

Alloy Fuel Door, Wheel Locks, Cargo Net, Cargo Mat, Sport Floor Mats

$319.00

Premium Paint Charge (Sunset Pearlescent)

$150.00

Premium Paint Charge (Solar)

$150.00


Accessory Options

Code

Accessory

Price

F51,4

Accessory Remote Engine Start

$599.00

F71

Accessory I-Pod Adapter

$199.00

FD1,3

Accessory Sport Aero Kit

$1,299.00

FI1,5

Accessory Rear Wing Spoiler

$495.00

FQ1

Accessory Sunroof Wind Deflector

$89.00

FX1,2

Accessory Package (Alloy Fuel Door, Wheel Locks, Cargo Net, Cargo Mat, Sport Floormats)

$319.00

GD1,2

Accessory Wheel Locks

$49.00

GE1,3

Accessory Mudguards

$110.00

GL1

Accessory All Weather Floor Mats

$75.00

GP1

Accessory Cargo Organizer

$59.00


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Competitors and press reviews

"The Eclipse feels quick, if not blindingly fast. The V6 eagerly moves the car with little effort, and the broad torque band makes it very drivable. In the twisties, the front-wheel drive pulls the Eclipse nicely around corners. Steering input and response feels very solid and comfortable. The 6-speed manual shift feels a bit clunky, but the throw is short, and the car has ample gear ratios that, when combined with the broadly available torque of the V6, will accelerate the Eclipse from any speed. Curb weight is 3,200 - 3,700 lbs (1,450 - 1,678 kg), depending on configuration, which is fairly heavy for a mid-sized coupe, and it certainly feels a little heavy in the corners. Overall, however, the driving experience is good, and the car is comfortable. I looked forward to getting into it each morning during my test week." (CarPages)

"The Eclipse's front-wheel-drive platform and considerable curb weight mean that the car does its best work in a straight line. The GT's V6 offers plenty of power, although spirited drivers will encounter wheelspin off the line and torque steer during hard acceleration. On four-cylinder models, acceleration tends to be sluggish. Handling is sporty enough, although the large turning circle can prove frustrating. All in all, the car is like an average student who goes far in life thanks to an inherent cool factor and impressive good looks." (Edmunds)

"But back to the Eclipse’s grand-touring aspirations: the first clue that we’re no longer looking at a high-strung, corner-shredding scalpel on wheels is its torquey 3.8-litre V6 that manages to provide stellar thrust throughout its operating range. No turbo lag, no peaky four-banger, just smooth power all the time. And while 265 horsepower is less than what would be expected from such a big engine these days (Hyundai’s Genesis Coupe churns out 306 horses from the same displacement), the engine has a torque curve that’s as flat the Trans-Canada through Saskatchewan (which is almost as flat as the Trans-Canada through Manitoba)." (CanadianDriver)

Competitors

Hyundai Genesis Coupe

The 2010 Genesis Coupe comes with a choice of two engines: a 3.8-liter Lambda DOHC V6 engine delivers an estimated 306 hp and 263 lb.-ft. of torque and a turbocharged, intercooled 2.0-liter DOHC inline four-cylinder that delivers a total of 212 hp and 217 lb.-ft. of torque. Prices start at $22,750 and go up to $31,750.

Honda Accord Coupe

The 2010 Honda Accord Coupe is offered with a choice of two engines: a 2.4-liter 4-cylinder that delivers 190 hp and 162 lbs-ft and 3.5-liter V-6 engine with a total output of 271 hp and 251 lbs-ft of torque. Prices start at $22,555 and go up to $31,305.

Nissan Altima Coupe

The 2010 Nissan Altima Coupe is offered with a choice of a 2.5 Liter inline 4 cylinder with 175 HP and 180 lb-ft torque and a larger 3.5 Liter V6 engine that produces a maximum output of 270 HP and 258 lb-ft of torque. The 2010 Altima Coupe starts at $22,440 for the 2.5 S version equipped with 6 speed manual transmission, $22,940 for the 2.5 CVT, $27,270 for the 3.5 SR with CVT and $29,600 for the 3.5 SR with a 6 speed manual gearbox.

Conclusion

With a restyled front and rear fascias, the 2010 Mitsubishi Eclipse offer a mix of style and thanks to the V-6 engine an excellent straight-line performance. On the other hand is very true that are other competitors out there that offer better handling or better overall packages for the money.

While the front seats offer enough space, we can not say the same about the rear ones. But on the same time there is relatively enough cargo space. But if you decided to but the 2010 Eclipse, then the V6 version is the one you should opt for as the four-cylinder models offer a sluggish acceleration and the handle is even worst that on a V6 model.