Reader’s Question:

My dad is getting the 2007 Mitsubishi Eclipse here in Houston Texas. He wants me to check out how the engine performs especially on long trips. Can you give us a heads start on the driving experience for this car?

Mitch

Houston, TX

I was lucky to be one of the first owners of the 2007 Mitsubishi Eclipse here in Houston, Texas. Actually, what I can say about this vehicle is that I see it more of a touring coupe that a sports car. It runs proud with its wider stance and more powerful engine as compared to the earlier model in 2006. Both the four-cylinder and V6 engines are strong, though the four works best with the manual transmission, which allows the driver to readily extract maximum acceleration. The V6 injects more horsepower, but it also puts more weight over the Eclipse’s front wheels. There might be some weight issues that you will encounter. But Mitsubishi tried to something new to alleviate this with the use of six speed manual transmission. It re-routes the power flow through the transmission’s gears and shafts, thus it effectively gives the incorporated center differential two final drive ratios (one for gears 1 - 4, the other for gears 5, 6 and reverse), and it shrunk the unit’s size. This gives a more compact installation and reduces the GT’s front-weight bias.

Special treatment was also given to the GT’s suspension, with a larger rear stabilizer bar countering stiffer front springs to maintain a more desirable roll center. There is also a cross bar that is attached to the front suspension towers, although the brace snakes through the engine compartment with enough bends and twists to invite doubt as to the extent of its contribution in the handling department. Indeed, I am really happy with how my Mitsubishi Eclipse works. I was even able to get an affordable yet reliable auto insurance for it on this website. They offer free quotations, so check it now.

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