| Mitsubishi Eclipse | |
| Manufacturer: | Mitsubishi Motors |
| Production: | 1989–2011 (906,876 units) |
| Model Years: | 1990–2012 |
| Assembly: | United States: Normal, Illinois (Diamond-Star Motors/MMNA) |
| Class: | Sport compact |
| Body Style: | 3-door liftback coupé (1989–2011) 2-door convertible (1996–2011) |
| Layout: | Front-engine, front-wheel-drive Front-engine, All-wheel-drive (first and second generation only) |
| Predecessor: | Mitsubishi Cordia Mitsubishi Starion (US-spec) |
The Mitsubishi Eclipse is a sport compact car that was produced by Mitsubishi in four generations from 1989 until 2011.[1] A convertible body style was added during the 1996 model year.
The first two generations share the automobile platform and parts with the rebadged Eagle Talon and Plymouth Laser captive imports. They were built during Mitsubishi Motors' close relationship with Chrysler Corporation. Their partnership was known as Diamond-Star Motors (DSM). In Japan, the first two generations were sold at a specific Japanese retail chain called Mitsubishi Car Plaza. The third, 2000–2005 generation shared a redesigned platform with the Chrysler Sebring and Dodge Stratus. In May 2005, the fourth, and final generation Eclipse was introduced, replacing the Chrysler platform used for the third generation with the PS platform.
According to Mitsubishi Motors, the Eclipse was named after an unbeaten 18th-century English racehorse that won 18 races in a row and then retired.[2] [3]
At the end of August 2011, the final Eclipse was manufactured and subsequently auctioned for charity.[4]
In 2017, Mitsubishi resurrected the Eclipse name on a compact crossover vehicle, called the Eclipse Cross.
| First generation | |
| Model Code: | D21A/D22A/D27A |
| Production: | 1989–1994 |
| Model Years: | 1990–1994 |
| Assembly: | United States: Normal, Illinois (Diamond-Star Motors) |
| Body Style: | 3-door liftback coupé |
| Layout: | Front-engine, front-wheel-drive Front-engine, four-wheel-drive |
| Platform: | Mitsubishi/Chrysler D platform |
| Related: | Mitsubishi Galant Eagle Talon Plymouth Laser |
| Length: | 172.8abbr=onNaNabbr=on |
| Height: | 51.4abbr=onNaNabbr=on GSX: 52abbr=onNaNabbr=on |
The first-generation Mitsubishi Eclipse was marketed as an entry to the mid-level four-cylinder sports coupe segment. It was developed for the North American market, where sales began in the autumn of 1989. Japanese sales of cars imported from Illinois began in 1990, and in late 1991 limited European sales began. At first, the car was only sold in Austria, Sweden, and Switzerland, but other countries were gradually added.[5] Five trim levels were available; all were front-wheel drive except the GSX which was all-wheel drive. The GS Turbo and GSX were equipped with turbocharged engines.
The profile was low and sleek; the hood line was so low that it needed a bump to clear the engine's cam cover.[6] The first-generation Eclipse underwent minor styling changes during its production; the car received updated, more ovoid sheet metal for 1992. The most notable is that the pre-facelift models have pop-up headlights, whereas 1992 through 1994 models have exposed aerodynamic headlights. The original Eclipse was replaced by the second generation model for the 1995 model year.
The Eclipse was available in five trim levels during its first-generation production run. AWD models were not available until halfway through the first model year.
The 1990 GS Turbo with a manual transmission was rated at 190 hp, whereas the 1990 GSX with a manual transmission was rated at 195hp. This was for the purpose of offsetting the additional weight of the AWD mechanism (approximately 2,930 lbs Vs 2,570 lbs GVW). However, 1991 and later years of both turbo models standardized on the 195 hp version 4G63T. The automatic models were rated at 180hp due to smaller fuel-injectors and turbocharger.[8]
These models varied significantly in drivetrains and available options, and included some variance in appearance, as higher trim lines added different front and rear fascia panels and surrounding trim, with the GSX model getting a notably different styling package from the others. In the European market, only a single trim was available (sold either as plain "Eclipse", or with GS or GSi badging depending on the importer), fitted with the 2-liter DOHC engine producing . Some European buyers could also opt for four-wheel-drive.
The basic driveline layout of the Eclipse is a transverse-mounted I4 Mitsubishi 4G37 or 4G63 engine situated on the left-hand side of the car driving an automatic or manual transmission on the right-hand side. AWD models have a different transmission which includes a limited-slip center differential and output shaft for a transfer case, which drives the rear differential (also available as limited-slip) and half-shafts.
The 4G37 and 4G63 engines are gasoline inline-fours. The 4G63 has an iron engine block with an aluminum cylinder head and is equipped with two balance shafts. The turbocharged version of the 4G63 (sometimes referred to as the 4G63T) has a lower compression ratio of 7.8:1 and oil squirters under the pistons for better cooling from extra heat created by forced induction. The turbocharged 4G63 engine received an internal update during the 1992 model year. The engines built from 1989 through April 1992 have 6-bolt motors. Beginning in May 1992, Mitsubishi revised the engine to a 7-bolt design.[9]
In March 1998, Mitsubishi issued a recall (bulletin 98V069001) for all 1990–1998 Mitsubishi Eclipse GSXs[10] citing, "Lockup of the transfer case can occur due to insufficient lubrication. The condition can cause a loss of vehicle control increasing the risk of a crash." The dealers would inspect the vehicles for the adequacy of the transfer case oil volume, transfer case oil leakage, and operational degradation of the transfer case mechanism. The transfer case itself did not leak but rather the brass plug in the center of the transfer case yoke would leak. Mitsubishi estimated that 24,275 vehicles were affected.[11]
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has determined crash test ratings of the 1G Eclipse:[12]
| Model year | Model | Frontal driver rating | Frontal passenger rating | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1990 | Eclipse | |||
| 1991 | Eclipse | |||
| 1992 | Eclipse | |||
| 1993 | Eclipse | |||
| 1994 | Eclipse |
The Eclipse Turbo was on Car and Driver magazine's Ten Best list for 1989 through 1992.[13]
| Second generation | |
| Model Code: | D31A/D32A/D33A/D38A/D39A |
| Production: | 1994–1999 |
| Model Years: | 1995–1999 |
| Assembly: | United States: Normal, Illinois (Diamond-Star Motors) |
| Designer: | Dragan Vukadinović Amy Hiroshige (interior)[14] [15] |
| Body Style: | 3-door liftback coupé 2-door convertible |
| Layout: | Front-engine, front-wheel-drive Front-engine, four-wheel-drive |
| Platform: | Mitsubishi D/Chrysler PJ platform |
| Related: | Eagle Talon |
| Transmission: | 4-speed automatic 5-speed manual |
| Wheelbase: | 98.8abbr=onNaNabbr=on |
| Length: | 1995–96: 172.2abbr=onNaNabbr=on 172.4abbr=onNaNabbr=on |
| Width: | 68.7abbr=onNaNabbr=on |
| Height: | 1995–96: 50.2abbr=onNaNabbr=on Spyder: 52.8abbr=onNaNabbr=on GSX: 50.5abbr=onNaNabbr=on 1997–99: 49.8abbr=onNaNabbr=on |
| Weight: | RS/GS: 2723lb GS-T: 2877lb GSX: 3210lb Spyder GS: 2888lb Spyder GS-T: 3053lb |
The Eclipse was redesigned in 1994 (for the 1995 model year) and included standard dual airbags, more rounded styling, a larger interior, and a new engine made by Chrysler for the base model. The second-generation car maintained the market focus of the first-generation car but had numerous changes to appeal to a broader market. A convertible model, named the Eclipse Spyder, was introduced in 1996 and offered in two trim levels; the GS and the GS-T. The Spyder GS was powered by a 2.4 L I4 naturally-aspirated 4G64 engine. The Spyder GS-T was fitted with Mitsubishi's 2.0 L turbocharged 4G63 I4 engine. The GSX model was also powered by this engine but with the addition of all-wheel drive system. No convertible model was powered by the Chrysler's 420a engine, nor was there a convertible with all-wheel-drive.[16]
The turbocharged engine option was updated for more power as compared to the previous generation (2100NaN0 vs. 1950NaN0). The naturally-aspirated cars had two different I4 engines depending on the market. The US version engines produced 140 hp, found only in the RS and GS trims, and were a modified version of the Chrysler Neon engine, the 420A, manufactured by Chrysler and delivered to and installed at the Diamond Star Motors facility. The European market engines were a naturally aspirated 4G63 with . International market Eclipses made less horsepower than their Japanese domestic market equivalents when equipped with the 4G63 (2100NaN0, 1540NaN0), due to emissions regulations.
This model exceeded Japanese government's compact car regulations regarding exterior dimensions (maximum width of 17001NaN1), therefore incurred a more expensive annual road tax obligation.
A special version of the Eclipse, called the "10th Anniversary OZ Rally", was sold at the end of the 1999 model run with unique 16-inch Enkei wheels with the OZ Racing logo. It also included the leather interior package, accented exhaust exit, “silver” gauges, mud flaps, and higher-profile spoiler that were available as standard equipment on GS-T coupe and GSX models. The special-edition package was only offered with the 420A engine.
A unique version of the 2G Eclipse was sold in some European countries. It used a naturally-aspirated Mitsubishi 4G63 motor, similar to what was available in the 1G, unique side-view mirrors, and amber rear turn signals.
A minor style revision was applied for the 1997 model year. The front grille opening was given a more aggressive profile. The headlights were given a sharper slant on the inner edges, and the previous all-chrome fixture interior changed to a black interior with chrome reflector inserts. The driving lights were revised from a reflector type to a smaller projection type. The rear bumper cap was altered and had the reverse lights restyled and moved out into the bumper fascia, away from their original central position by the rear license plate bracket. The GS-T coupe and GSX received a higher-profile rear spoiler. The interior color choices also changed from blue and grey in 1995–1996 model years to black/grey, tan/black, and grey in the 1997–1999 model years.[16] A black leather interior option was only available in 1999; the package included all seats (with the 'Mitsubishi' logo embroidered on both of the fronts), door inserts, and a center console armrest.
The Eclipse was available in seven trim levels: Base [Only available in 1996.5 (mid-model year)], RS (Rally Sport), GS (Grand Sport), GS Spyder, GS-T (Grand Sport Turbo), GS-T Spyder, and GSX (Grand Sport X=AWD).
The second-generation Eclipse was offered in various trim levels. Standard equipment would slightly throughout the production run as some items that were optional on certain trims became standard later in the production run. Each trim level came with a standard list of equipment; however, optional equipment packages were also available to add popular and premium features, most commonly found on the GS model. In addition, optional equipment was also available such as a trunk-mounted CD player, leather interior on the GS and GS-T [18] and HomeLink and other items such as floormats and wheel locks.
The basic driveline layout of the Eclipse is a transverse-mounted I4 Chrysler 420A, Mitsubishi 4G64, or 4G63 engine. The Mitsubishi engines are mounted in the same orientation as the first generation cars. The 420A-powered cars had the engine mounted on the right side of the car, and further back in the chassis. AWD models had a similar transmission to the first generation car. The second-generation GSX also had a stronger carrier/differential when equipped with the limited-slip option.
All motors are four-cylinder gasoline engines. All have cast iron blocks with aluminum cylinder heads. The 4G63/4G64 engines retain the balance shafts for smoother operation, while the 420a does not. The 1995–1999 turbo engines were given an increased compression ratio of 8.5:1, up from 7.8:1, and a smaller turbo, a Garrett T25 set to 121NaN1 in place of the previous Mitsubishi TD04-13G turbocharger (automatic cars) and TD05-14B turbocharger (manual cars). This was done to minimize turbo lag, which was an undesirable trait for mass-market appeal in the U.S. These changes led to increased horsepower and torque vs. the previous 1G turbos. The 2G turbo cars produced 2100NaN0 at 6,000 rpm (2050NaN0 at 6,000 rpm with automatic transmission) and 2140NaN0 at 3,000 rpm (2200NaN0 at 3,000 rpm with automatic transmission.)
The 4G63T engines found in 1990–1994 models have a 601NaN1 throttle body compared to the 1995–1999 MY's 521NaN1. The intake ports on the head and runners of the intake manifold are also larger on the 1G. They also have larger crankshaft bearing journals to allow better lubrication. Because they look similar, it is important to note that the 1990-1994 cylinder head is more on the side of high air volume, while the 1995-1999 cylinder head is more on the side of high air velocity.
Mitsubishi Motors quietly updated its 4G63 engine in 1998 and 1999. The crankshaft is more precisely shaved and cut compared to previous years. It is identical to that used in the Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution, which was not yet sold in North America until 2003. The thrust bearings have been revised to a "split" type to allow better lubrication and self-alignment with the crankshaft. It also had improved tuning and functionality thanks to a new ECU, which was similar to Lancer Evolution ECUs. Although originally deactivated to protect the drivetrain, it included advanced features such as launch control, boost control, adjustable rev-limit, fuel system control as well as fuel and boost map selection for certain Mitsubishi Heavy Industries turbochargers.
The second-generation Eclipse received numerous Technical Service Bulletins (TSB) affecting a variety of issues with the car however there was one notable powertrain recall. In March 1998, Mitsubishi issued a recall (bulletin 98V069001) for all 1990–1998 Mitsubishi Eclipse GSXs[19] citing, "Lockup of the transfer case can occur due to insufficient lubrication. The condition can cause a loss of vehicle control increasing the risk of a crash." The dealers would inspect the vehicles for the adequacy of the transfer case oil volume, transfer case oil leakage, and operational degradation of the transfer case mechanism. The transfer case itself did not leak but rather the brass plug in the center of the transfer case yoke would leak. Mitsubishi estimated 24,275 vehicles were affected.[11]
Another issue that impacted the mid 1995–1997 Eclipse GS-T/GSX (4G63 equipped vehicles) is thrust-bearing failure commonly referred to in the Eclipse community as "crankwalk." Mitsubishi never publicly addressed the issue via a recall or TSB. There were a variety of symptoms however the most common symptom of crankwalk is the clutch pedal would stick to the floor upon making a left turn. If crankwalk occurred, it typically meant engine failure. In 1998, Mitsubishi revised manufacturing processes to correct the issue.
All 2G Eclipses came standard with driver and front-passenger airbags, side-guard door beams, front and rear body structure crumple zones, 5 mph energy-absorbing bumpers, safety-cage body construction, 4-wheel disc brakes (except RS), three-point ELR/ALR lap/shoulder safety belts (ELR only for the driver) and height-adjustable front shoulder belts. Anti-lock brakes were optional on all models (except for RS).
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has determined crash test ratings of the 2G Eclipse:[12]
| Model year | Model | Frontal driver rating | Frontal passenger rating | Side driver rating | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1995 | Eclipse | N/A | |||
| 1996 | Eclipse Spyder | N/A | |||
| 1997 | Eclipse | N/A | |||
| 1998 | Eclipse | N/A | N/A | ||
| 1999 | Eclipse | N/A | N/A |
1995 and 1996 "Driver's Choice Award" - MotorWeek[20]
| Third generation | |
| Model Code: | D52A/D53A |
| Production: | 1999–2005 |
| Model Years: | 2000–2005 |
| Assembly: | United States: Normal, Illinois (MMNA) |
| Designer: | Dan Sims (1996)[21] |
| Body Style: | 3-door liftback coupé 2-door convertible |
| Layout: | Front-engine, front-wheel-drive |
| Platform: | Chrysler ST-22 platform |
| Related: | Mitsubishi Galant Chrysler Sebring coupe Dodge Stratus coupe |
| Engine: | 2.4 L 150hp 4G64 I4 3.0 L 200hp 6G72 V6 3.0 L 210hp 6G72 V6 |
| Motor: | Permanent magnet synchronous (Eclipse EV Prototype) |
| Transmission: | 4-speed automatic 5-speed manual |
| Battery: | 95 Ah manganese Li-ion |
| Wheelbase: | 100.8inches |
| Length: | 2004–05: 176.8inches 2000–03: 175.4inches |
| Width: | 68.9inches |
| Height: | 2001–05 Coupe: 51.6inches Spyder: 52.8inches 2000: 51.8inches |
| Weight: | 2.4 coupe: 2822lb 2.4 convertible: 3042lb V6 coupe: 3053lb V6 convertible: 3241lb |
The Eclipse underwent a change into its third generation in 1999, closely applying the Mitsubishi SST design study which debuted at the 1998 North American International Auto Show. It was the first concept vehicle exhibited by Mitsubishi at an auto show in the U.S.[22]
Two new powertrain options were available, a 1470NaN0 2.4 L 16-valve SOHC I4 4G64 and a 2050NaN0 24v SOHC 3.0 L V6 (6G72). AWD was no longer an option. The suspension setup was modified to provide a softer and more compliant ride quality.
The third-generation Eclipse shared its powertrain with the eighth-generation Galant. In late 2001, the power of the GT trim was lowered to 2000NaN0 as a result of tightened emission standards forcing MMNA to adopt the California emissions standards for all variants of the car, rather than selling independent 'Federal Specification' and 'California Specifications' versions.
In mid-2002, the GTS trim was introduced for the 2003 model year. This vehicle included an engine with a 10:1 compression ratio, revised camshaft profile, and an improved Mitsubishi Variable Induction Management (MVIM) air intake system that gave the car an extra 10hp and a slightly improved power curve. The 2003–2005 GTS coupe, GTS Spyder and GT Spyder[23] shared the new engine while the GT coupe retained the 2000NaN0 powertrain.
With the introduction of the 2003 GTS model, the Eclipse saw minor changes including a redesigned front bumper with slotted fog lights, as well as a recoloring of the taillights. On the interior, the gauge face changed, and the door panels were also redesigned. Newly designed five-spoke chrome wheels were offered with the GT and GTS trims.
In 2004, Mitsubishi Motors imported the Eclipse Spyder to the Japanese Domestic Market as a special edition.[24]
The Eclipse was available in 7 trim levels: RS, GS, GS Spyder, GT, GT Spyder, GTS, and GTS Spyder. All trim levels (besides RS and the Spyder) came with an automatic tilt and retracting sunroof. All models were front-wheel drive (FWD). The GTS trims were introduced for the 2003 model year. For the 2005 model year, the RS trim was discontinued and a special "Remix Edition" GS trim package was introduced, which included chrome wheels, identifying placards, and the premium interior package from the GT and GTS models, which was not previously offered on the GS trim.
The third-generation Eclipse utilized two distinct Mitsubishi engines: The SOHC 4G64 2.4 L 16-valve four-cylinder and SOHC 6G72 3.0 L 24-valve V6. Both engines use cast iron blocks with aluminum cylinder heads. The four-cylinder, found in the RS, GS, and GS Spyder trims, used a 9:1 compression ratio and produced an output of 1540NaN0 and 1630NaN0 of torque throughout all years.[23]
The 3.0 L V6, however, used in GT and GT Spyder models, produced 2050NaN0 in Federal Specifications between 2000-2001 and 2000NaN0 in all GT models in California Specifications, all years with a static compression ratio of 9:1. In 2003, the 3.0 L V6 was improved for the GTS and GT/GTS Spyder, using a revised camshaft profile, raised compression ratio of 10:1 and variable-length MVIM intake manifold. This engine produced 2100NaN0.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has determined crash test ratings of Eclipse of different model years:[12]
| Model year | Model | Type | Frontal driver rating | Frontal passenger rating | Side driver rating | 4x2 Rollover | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2002 | Eclipse | 2-DR | |||||
| 2003 | Eclipse | 2-DR | |||||
| 2004 | Eclipse | 2-DR | N/A | ||||
| 2005 | Eclipse | 2-DR | N/A |
The Mitsubishi Eclipse EV is a prototype electric vehicle with a lightweight electric motor and lithium-ion batteries in the chassis of a third-generation Eclipse. It is powered by manganese lithium-ion batteries made by Japan Storage Battery, which have 65% reduced charging time over nickel-hydrogen batteries.
The prototype model participated in the 2001 Shikoku EV Rally, a 7800NaN0 circuit around the perimeter of Shikoku, Japan, where it drove in excess of 4000NaN0 on a single battery charge.[26]
| Fourth generation | |
| Model Code: | DK2A/DK4A |
| Production: | 2005–2012 2007–2012 (Spyder) |
| Model Years: | 2006–2012 2007–2012 (Spyder) |
| Assembly: | United States: Normal, Illinois (MMNA) |
| Body Style: | 3-door liftback coupé 2-door convertible |
| Layout: | Front-engine, front-wheel-drive |
| Platform: | Mitsubishi PS platform |
| Related: | Mitsubishi Endeavor Mitsubishi Galant |
| Engine: | 2.4 L 162hp 4G69 I4 3.8 L 263hp 6G75 V6 |
| Transmission: | 4-speed automatic (F4A4B) 5-speed automatic (F5A5A) 5-speed manual (F5M42) 6-speed manual (F6MBA) |
| Wheelbase: | 101.4inches |
| Length: | 2006–08: 179.7inches 2009–2011: 45831NaN1 |
| Width: | 72.2inches |
| Height: | 2006–2010: 53.5inches 2006–2010 Spyder: 54.4inches 2006–2010 GT Spyder: 54.7inches 2011: 13511NaN1 2011 Spyder: 13751NaN1 |
Another substantial styling revision was introduced, with the fourth-generation model taking some of the profile from the second generation model but maintaining a front fascia consistent with Mitsubishi's corporate styling features of the time. Drivetrain features include a 263hp 3.8 L MIVEC V6 engine for the GT trim, 2009 and newer models have 2650NaN0. The GS has a 162hp 2.4 L MIVEC four-cylinder engine, both derived from the Mitsubishi PS platform family, with which the Eclipse shares many mechanical components. Like the 2004 Galant and third-generation Eclipse, the fourth-generation Eclipse is FWD only, although a concept model has been produced by Mitsubishi and Ralliart with a MillenWorks designed hybrid-electric AWD platform, the 4G63 engine from the Lancer Evolution, and more aggressive body styling with imitation carbon fiber accents.[27] The V6 produces 263hp and 2600NaN0 of torque.
The fourth-generation Spyder (convertible) Eclipse was released for the 2007 model year at the North American International Auto Show.
For the 2010 model year in the U.S., its primary market, the Eclipse was available in five trim levels: GS, GS Sport Spyder, SE, GT, and GT Spyder. In Mexico, the GT Spyder is known as the Eclipse Convertible. In Canada, the GT trim is known as the GT-P. The SE package was available in either GS or GT trim specs, however included optional equipment.
The models and standard / optional equipment:
Options Include - Sun & Sound package with a power sunroof is paired with a 650-watt Rockford Fosgate audio system. Boasting nine speakers including a 10abbr=onNaNabbr=on trunk-mounted subwoofer, a 6-CD in-dash changer, and steering-wheel-mounted audio controls, the package also includes a central display with outside temperature and compass readings and an electrochromic rear-view mirror.
Options Include - GS Deluxe Leather Package: Leather front seating surfaces, heated front seats, heated side mirrors, outside temperature indicator and compass in the center dash display.
Options Include- Premium Sport Package with 18inches seven-spoke alloy wheels, leather front seating surfaces, a power sunroof, an eight-way-adjustable (six power) driver's seat, alloy pedals, heated front seats, heated door mirrors, automatic dimming rear-view mirror, air conditioning, and a 650-watt Rockford Fosgate audio system with nine speakers that included a 10-in (254 mm) trunk-mounted subwoofer, a 6-CD/MP3-compatible in-dash changer, and steering wheel-mounted audio controls.
Options Include - GT Premium Sport Package: 18-inch alloy wheels leather front seating surfaces, 6-way power driver's seat, heated front seats, heated side mirrors, aluminum pedals, automatic climate control, and a wind deflector.
The Mitsubishi Eclipse was given a minor facelift for the 2009 model year, the front fascia changed the fog lights and deleted the triangle housing the "three diamond" logo used to sit on in the grille; the rear fascia changed the "Eclipse" insignia from an indent to raised silver letters. An option to add a dual exhaust and projector H.I.D. headlamps also became available. The V6 engine now rated at 2650NaN0 and 2620NaN0 of torque in part due to the more open front fascia as well as a new stock dual exhaust system.[30] It was unveiled at the 2008 Chicago Auto Show.
For 2011, the Mitsubishi Eclipse featured a "blackout" roof, similar to the 1990 model. Mitsubishi also lowered the suspension of Eclipse about half an inch to lower the center of gravity.[31] A rear backup camera and Bluetooth hands-free calling to the Sun and sound package were included. In the GS trim, the car gets the same 18-inch wheels and blackout front end as the GT model called the GS Sport.[32]
For the 2012 model year, the Eclipse received three slight changes: brake override logic, a clear lip spoiler on the GT trim, and one new exterior color. According to a review and rating by Motor Trend, the fourth-generation Eclipse was described as "dated" - but its "exterior design still stands out among sporty coupes currently available."[33] The 2012 model year Eclipse was now six years old and "is still trying to pass itself off as a sporty two-door."[33] This was the final model year, albeit a short run because production ended in August 2011.[34] [35]
The last Eclipse to roll off the assembly line was built on 16 August 2011, painted Kalapana Black. Its color was chosen by members of Mitsubishi's Facebook community, who picked from a historical Eclipse color palette. This was the only Eclipse equipped with both the 3.8L/265 hp V6 engine and the commemorative SE package, as well as special 18-inch Dark Argent alloy wheels and one-of-a-kind graphics. It is also built with a sunroof, leather interior, 650W Rockford Fosgate 9-speaker audio system with Sirius XM, hands-free Bluetooth phone interface, rear-view camera, and HID headlights. The car was auctioned off by Mecum Auctions in St. Charles, Illinois on 17 September 2012, for $35,000.[36] Proceeds went to the Japanese Red Cross to aid victims of the 2011 Tōhoku earthquake and tsunami.[37]
Grand total Eclipse production was 906,876 units.[38]
The Eclipse has been campaigned in various auto racing events.
The Eclipse, and its Chrysler-branded counterparts, have competed in Sports Car Club of America (SCCA) events.
In 1995, a GT2 class specification Eclipse GSX was entered into the annual 24 Hours of Daytona endurance race. It was placed on grid number 74, at the back in last place. It moved up to 24th place overall finish without any issues.[39] It nearly set a new record as well, passing a total of 50 cars.[40] [41] In 1998, it entered the race again but was now in a lower specification class (GT3/GTS3)[42] It finished in 24th place. In 1999, the Eclipse made its final appearance in the race, achieving 39th place, after posting 455 laps.[43] [44] [45] The name of the team was Spirit of Daytona and their sponsor was Daytona Mitsubishi. Craig Conway, Eric Van Cleef, and Todd Flis were the drivers.[46]
In 2004 and 2005, Greg Collier won the NASA Super Unlimited class national title in a Plymouth Laser RS Turbo.[47] These wins were over purpose built Ferrari Challenge and Porsche Carrera Cup race cars.
In 2009 and 2010, an Eclipse Spyder GS-T driven by Matt Andrews and Andrew Brilliant won the Super Lap Battle Limited championship in Willow Springs, California.
In 2012, a heavily built and tuned Mitsubishi Eclipse piloted by Mark Rybníček won the Czech Hill Climb championship. Other drivers such as Karel Stehlik[48] [49] and David Komarek[50] have used Eclipses in hill climb competition as well. Some of engines produce as much as 6500NaN0. They also have short transmission gears to accelerate to triple-digit speeds.
Brent Rau has won three world drag racing championships using an Eclipse; IDRC, NDRA, and NHRA. Many other notable names have also claimed big wins piloting Eclipses for drag racing as well.[51]
Jett Racing entered a third-generation Eclipse for drag racing competition. As of 2014, they hold the world record for the world's fastest four-cylinder. It has 16000NaN0 and is RWD. It is capable of over 20000NaN0.[52] [53] On 29 November 2018, they ran 6.2 seconds in the quarter-mile with 225 MPH for the top speed.[54]