Eclipse Spyder offers high-tech fun
Based on the fourth-generation Eclipse coupe introduced for 2006, the all-new 2007 Eclipse Spyder is the attainable exotic that combines "driven to thrill" and performance with a high-tech convertible top and outstanding value.
A rigid platform enables the four-wheel independent suspension to give the Eclipse Spyder both sporty road manners and a compliant, comfortable ride.
Available in GS and GT trim levels, the Eclipse Spyder convertible is powered by a 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine mated to a five-speed manual gearbox. The upscale model is propelled by a 3.8-liter, V6 engine joined to a six-speed manual transmission. A four-speed automatic is an available option for the four-cylinder motor, while a five-speed automatic is offered for the V6 prime mover.
Both engines feature Mitsubishi MIVEC (Mitsubishi Innovative Valve Timing Electronic Control System) valve timing and lift technology to help optimize engine efficiency and power across a broad engine speed range. The Eclipse automatic transmissions feature Sportronicâ„¢ shifters to allow manual gear shift control.
On the road, the optional 3.8-liter V6 engine and five-speed automatic transmission is a match made in heaven. Plenty of useable power is available to cover miles of asphalt real estate in short order. Handling and control connect driver and vehicle as one. Based on Mitsubishi's versatile PS platform, the Eclipse Spyder was engineered from the start to be a convertible. Strategically placed reinforcements applied to the main body joints result in an overall increase in bending and torsion resistance compared to the previous-generation Spyder.
Starting with the Spyder's rigid unibody, control hardware begins with a four-wheel independent suspension system, designed to provide both taut, responsive handling and comfortable ride quality. In front, a proven MacPherson strut-type suspension design utilizes large-diameter strut tubes and coil springs. Each strut uses a gas-charged damper insert, and a large urethane bump stop helps to absorb road shock and keeps the suspension from bottoming out. The front strut assemblies attach to large reinforced steel lower control arms.
The sophisticated low-mount, multi-link rear suspension employs strategic location of coil springs, control arms, gas-charged shock absorbers, links and lowered mounting point height in order to position the vehicle's mass lower in the chassis, optimizing the center of gravity for improved handling.
The front-drive Spyder features an automatic cloth top that folds completely out of sight under a flush-fitting powered tonneau cover in about 19 seconds. Its advanced multi-layer construction provides a full head liner for a quiet, snug interior feeling of a coupe when it is raised. The glass rear window features a defroster.
The attainable exotic design theme continues inside. The wave-form instrument panel houses easy-to-reach controls and features distinctive motorcycle-inspired gauges and ice blue LED nighttime illumination. Three color schemes are offered: Techno-Sport (dark charcoal), Hi-Q Sport (medium gray), and Avante Garde (terra cotta). The one-piece high-back front bucket seats were inspired by Mitsubishi involvement in motorsports. The steering wheel features audio system remote controls.
The Eclipse Spyder rock a standard 650-watt Rockford Fosgate premium audio system with AM/FM/CD/MP3 playback capability, including a six-disc, in-dash CD changer. The system was specifically engineered for the Eclipse Spyder and provides unique automatic sound equalization for top-up or top-down driving. An eight-inch subwoofer is integrated into the rear seat area to provide deep bass sound as well as a provocative design element.
Engines: 2.4-liter four-cylinder, 162 hp at 6,000 rpm and 162 hp at 4,000 lbs.-ft. of torque; 3.8-liter V6, 260 hp at 5,750 rpm, 258 hp at 4,500 lbs.-ft. of torque.
Transmissions: five-speed manual, six-speed manual, four-speed automatic, five-speed automatic.
EPA fuel economy: 2.4-liter four-cylinder, 22 city/29 hwy., (manual); 22 city/28 hwy., (automatic); 3.8-liter V6, 17 city/26 hwy., (manual); 18 city/26 hwy., (automatic).
Cargo capacity: 5.2 cubic feet
Safety features include dual front airbags, front seat-mounted side-impact head/thorax airbags, fog lights, four-wheel disc brakes with anti-lock, electronic brake force distribution, tubular steel side-guard door beams, daytime running lights, engine immobilizer and remote keyless entry. GT adds traction control.
The base Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) for the 2007 Mitsubishi Eclipse Spyder convertible starts from $25,389 for the GS up to $29,169 for the GT automatic. Destination charges add $625. 2007 Mitsubishi Eclipse Spyder