2009 Mitsubishi Eclipse Gets Small Face Lift

The Mitsubishi Eclipse is now in its fourth generation with the latest version's debut to the consumer public at the 2005 Detroit Auto Show. This 2006 model year captured people’s attention with its unique shape and it even got a passing nod in the performance department. However, it has continued on in its current skin with only minor updates for the 2009 model year. So is the 2009 Mitsubishi Eclipse enough to keep the buying public interested?

The updates for 2009 were fairly limited and consist mostly of cosmetic changes, most notably the black grill treatment that is meant to mimic more expensive sports cars like the Mitsubishi Evolution X. That being said the Eclipse GT did see a 2 hp power gain with the addition of dual factory exhaust bumping it to 165 horsepower. Is it enough? Personally I think it still falls short.

The 2009 Mitsubishi Eclipse has a base MSRP $20,249, but you can option the car out in the neighborhood of 30K. In this price range you can get a lot better performing cars that will also turn heads like the 2009 Subaru Impreza WRX sedan or wagon. The new 2010 Ford Mustang and 2010 Chevrolet Camaro in V-6 format will also give the Eclipse GT a run for its money. Or how about a 2009 Nissan 370Z if you are willing to to part with a little more cash.On the upside, the Eclipse does still have a unique look and a sporty personality and TheCarConenection.com rated it a 7.4 out 10 in their overall rating review. To give the car a little more credit, the 2008 Mitsubishi Eclipse clocked a 0-60 time of 5.8 seconds and was rated the seventh quickest car in 2007 by Car and Driver. So it is possible that the Eclipse will still capture your eye and make you sign on the dotted line, however it is my best suggestion that you look at the competition before making your final decision.

 

Read more about the 2008 and 2009 Mitsubishi Eclipse and check out the rest of our blogs, reviews and photos right here at Allsmallcars.com. Looking for more? Then check out our muscle car trio—CamaroBlog.com, MustangBlog.com and ChallengerBlog.com.