2005 MITSUBISHI ECLIPSE NEW CAR BUYER'S GUIDE

What's New for the 2005 Mitsubishi Eclipse?
A new-for-2005 Remix Edition adds some flair to the Eclipse GS. The package includes a platinum exterior color, color-keyed mirrors, fog lamps, chrome wheels, a chrome exhaust tip, a power sunroof, and a leather interior. A 210-watt Infinity sound system with a in-dash six-disc CD changer keeps the tunes flowing. Liquid Silver and UV Blue join the color chart across the line.

Advantages of the 2005 Mitsubishi Eclipse:

• Youthful image
• Torquey V6 engine
• Seven-year, 100,000-mile powertrain warranty
• Free scheduled maintenance during the basic warranty period

Objections to the 2005 Mitsubishi Eclipse:

• Uninhabitable rear seat
• Inexpensive interior materials
• Sporty exterior belies wallowing ride and soft suspension

Editor's Advice:
Wanting to increase its sporty coupe's mass appeal, Mitsubishi built the current-generation Eclipse as a boulevardier unlike the previous, harder-edged versions that enjoyed a cult-like following due largely to their optional turbocharged engines and available all-wheel drive. Although its silhouette and advertising campaign might suggest otherwise, the 2005 Mitsubishi Eclipse is a poor excuse for a sport coupe. With front-wheel-drive and a softly tuned suspension, its driving dynamics will not induce enthusiasts to enter any street rallies. Rather, the Mitsubishi Eclipse is a comfortable car for two that happens to look racy in the eyes of those who fancy heavily raked body panels, but its low-grade interior materials, mushy handling and uninspiring acceleration are not cause for celebration. Mitsubishi will give the Eclipse a substantial makeover soon; we hope that includes a return to its roots. In the meantime, the company hopes that an excellent powertrain warranty and free scheduled maintenance will stoke sales.