The Mitsubishi Eclipse is a youthful design statement that provides many options for the money. Sleek, graceful and modern, the Mitsubishi Eclipse has struck a cord with younger consumers. The base model has a 162 horsepower (162 lbs feet of torque) 2.4 liter, 4-cylinder engine. There is an optional 5-speed manual for the 4-cylinder or a 5-speed “Sportronic” automatic transmission for both models. The optional 265 horsepower (with 262 lbs feet of torque) 3.8 liter V6 is a swift alternative and has an option for a smooth shifting 6-speed manual transmission. One of the Eclipse’s big selling points is its monster stereo system, according to Mitsubishi. The Mitsubishi Eclipse has an optional, “650-watt (max.) Rockford Fosgate® 6-CD/MP3 Playback Capability Audio System with Nine Speakers, Including an Eight-inch Subwoofer, Digital Sound Processing (DSP) with PUNCH® Audio Dynamics and Automatic Compensation for Driving Speed and Soft-top Position.” The Mitsubishi Eclipse Convertible’s main competition is the Chrysler Sebring Convertible, Volkswagen Eos, Pontiac G6 Convertible and Ford Mustang Convertible.
Very similar to the other Smart Fortwo models, the easily removed soft top makes the fun ultra-mini even more exciting. Here’s Smart’s take on their unique roof: “The Passion Cabriolet has all the features of the passion coupe plus an upgraded radio and sound system that includes an mp3 compatible in-dash 6-disk CD changer. The main difference lies in the soft top, with a heated rear glass window, that is fully automatic and can be infinitely adjusted to any position while driving at any speed. For the full cabriolet experience, simply remove the side roof bars - taken out in no time - and stow them in a special compartment in the tailgate.” The Smart Fortwo’s only transmission is a semi-automatic 5 speed automated manual transmission, 70 horsepower (68 lbs feet of torque) 1.0 liter, 3-cylinder engine. That’s much power to some, keep in mind that the Smart Fortwo weighs about 1,800 lbs (and change). Combined EPA mpg: 36 automated-manual.