If you are looking for a sporty looking car but don’t need an insane amount of speed or a super stiff car then the 2011 Mitsubishi Eclipse is a vehicle to explore. Even though it looks like a sports car, it was tuned to function as an everyday driver. It has a large appeal to the baby boomer crowd who may want a sporty looking car without sacrificing a smooth and comfortable car. True sports cars may be fun to drive once in a while but not necessarily practical in everyday life. Another plus is that the Eclipse is rather reasonably priced at around $20k. There are two body styles available; coupe and the convertible (the Eclipse Spyder). Three trim levels are available; GS, GS Sport and GT. This sports car isn’t meant for the hardcore racer with a need for speed but someone who prefers a comfortable ride with a sporty appearance.
Step inside the cabin and you’ll find yourself in a well-appointed interior with sweet chrome accents for a modern look. The instruments are backlit by blue lighting and there is enough room to seat four individuals. Opt for the GT model and you get temperature adjustable seats, high intensity projector headlamps and 18″ wheels. Cargo space for the coupe stands at 15.7 cubic feet while the Spyder offers 5.7 cubic feet.
There is a four cylinder and a six cylinder engine available; a 2.4 Liter V4 with 162 HP and 162 lb feet of torque and a 3.8 Liter V6 with 265 hp at 262 lb feet of torque. Mileage stands at 20 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the freeway. This auto handles curves well and it stands out for its smooth drive.
Mitsubishi engineers have included a large number of safety precautions including seatbelts which tighten up during an accident and a comprehensive air bag system with side curtain bags. The chassis has been strengthened in critical areas and functions to absorb crash energy in case of an accident. The Latch system is also in place which makes it easier to attach child seats.
The 2011 Eclipse would make a great vehicle for anyone who favors the look of a sharp athletic sports car but who doesn’t need to win every street race. This auto is for the individual who prefers comfort over a sporty ride. The 2011 model is competitively priced to sell around $20k range.
