2012 Mitsubishi Eclipse Spyder
If you're in the market for a four-seater convertible that's priced in the $35,000 neighbourhood, there isn't a lot out there.
You could check out the Ford Mustang, Chrysler 200, Chevrolet Camaro or Volkswagen Eos, but the pickings are slim. This is not a huge market for car makers and the costs involved in building a convertible are greater than the regular garden-variety tin-top, so many don't bother. Plus, the Mustang has pretty much got a lock on this market.
However, one of the more affordable models out there is the Mitsubishi Eclipse Spyder, which starts at a hair below $35,000. Now in its fourth generation, the Spyder is sold throughout the world and is built in Normal, Ill.
For the time being, that is. Mitsubishi recently announced that, come this August, it will cease building the Eclipse in Normal and will concentrate on producing the Galant sedan. This shutdown also affects the Endeavour crossover, incidentally.
Interestingly, Automotive News recently reported that Mitsubishi has a 180-day supply of its Eclipse models on hand, which in the car business, is not good. That's almost six months worth of cars, sitting in limbo, waiting for buyers. Given the times we live in, it's understandable why Mitsubishi would shut things down. Clearly, people aren't buying the Eclipse, so it's got to go.
But before it does, you may be able to strike a pretty good deal on a car that is fundamentally sound, and a pleasure to drive.
Two versions are available: GS and GT-P. The former is powered by an adequate, 162-horsepower four-cylinder, while the latter, which is what I drove, has a lusty 3.8-litre V-6 that develops 265 horsepower. This engine is also used in the Galant and pulls the GT-P Spyder along at a lively clip. Mated to a six-speed manual transmission, it's one of the car's strongest points.
Not just because it's powerful. Yes, it will take you from 0 to 100 km/h in about seven seconds, but this is also a nicely co-ordinated drivetrain; the engine is refined, responsive and muted, and the gearbox, quiet and manageable with a smooth throw between gears and well-spaced gear ratios.
That said, my tester had a lot of trouble going into first gear from a dead stop. Basically, you had to kind of double-clutch and take a run at it and it often would not go in first try. Felt like misaligned linkage to me. Nonetheless, the drivetrain of the Spyder GT-P was a pleasant surprise. Unfortunately, the V-6 requires premium gas and returns mediocre fuel economy: 13.1 litres/100 km in town and just 8.0 on the highway. You can also order a five-speed automatic with Mitsubishi's Sportronic manual shift feature and it'll run you another $1,200.
The GT-P comes with a pretty comprehensive list of standard features, including tilt (but not telescoping) steering, cruise control, leather interior, heated front seats, back-up camera and Bluetooth capability. For it's just less than $36,000 base price, it's a well-equipped car with all the necessary creature comforts.
The convertible top is lined and raises/lowers in 25-30 seconds, via a centre console-located set of rocker switches. For some reason, it comes up faster than it goes down.
Once you're behind the wheel, you find yourself firmly ensconced in a comparatively low driving position, with excellent wind protection and nicely cushioned seats. With the top down and the windows up, you're almost completely shielded from buffeting and turbulence, which defeats the purpose. Why buy a ragtop if you don't like being in the wind?
This leads me to my major gripe with the Eclipse Spyder. In a word, ouch. This is an ugly little spud. No matter how I look at this car, it strikes me as being poorly styled, with no discernible theme or continuity. To my eyes, it's just a random design that looks vaguely Porsche-like, if you use your imagination. By way of comparison, the Mustang is nicely put together, with a definite retro flavour and pleasing body lines. It has a discernible presence, but the Spyder is just an anonymous blob of sheet metal. I realize taste is a personal thing, but if Mitsubishi has a half year's worth of unsold cars in storage, I rest my case.
I hasten to add that what the Spyder lacks in looks, it more than makes up for in driving pleasure. The GT-P is a blast to drive, with outstanding grip and a high tossability factor. Brakes are four-wheel ventilated disc with ABS and the Spyder has a comparatively tight turning radius of just more than 12 metres, curb to curb.
So, it may look awkward, but the Eclipse Spyder remains true to the fundamentals of soft-top driving: a high fun quotient, a responsive drivetrain and an accessible price tag.
Tech specs
2012 Mitsubishi Eclipse Spyder GT-P
Type: Four-seat convertible
Base Price: $35,998; as tested, $37,598
Engine: 3.8-litre V-6
Horsepower/torque: 265 hp/262 lb-ft
Transmission: Six-speed manual
Drive: Front-wheel
Fuel economy (litres/100 km): 13.1 city/8.0 highway; premium gas
Alternatives: Ford Mustang, Chevrolet Camaro, Chrysler 200, Volkswagen Eos