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The Mitsubishi Eclipse delivers just about everything we'd expect in a sub-$30,000 coupe: racy good looks, sporty handling, comfortable, feature-laden accommodations for driver and front passenger, and a choice of four-cylinder or V6 engines. Even the base engine can provide brisk acceleration, and both deliver good fuel economy.

The Eclipse coupe was all-new in 2006 and it still looks fresh. The front seats are roomier than in the pre-2006 models, and this latest-generation Mitsubishi Eclipse represents an improvement stylistically. With more curves and better proportions, it turns heads more with a smile than with a frown. The Eclipse coupe has four seat belts, but it's a classic 2+2. The back seat is only used as a last resort. But the same applies to sport coupes that cost three times as much, and this is a true coupe, rather than a sedan with its rear doors sealed shut and painted over.

A convertible version, called Spyder, joined the lineup for 2007. It comes with a with a full-power, convertible top that folds completely into a fully covered, self-closing bin. The Spyder offers all the pleasures of open-air motoring with few of the displeasures. The top, especially, is a quality structure. It's finished inside, with all the struts, pivots, and bows hidden behind sound-deadening fabric. With it up, the interior feels and sounds much like the coupe, although perhaps a little claustrophobic. With it down, the steeply raked windshield pushes most of the air up and over the open cockpit, allowing almost-normal conversation; hats are just as essential for avoiding sunburn as for controlling wind-blown tresses.

Despite weighing about 200 pounds more than the coupe, due to bracing added in the conversion to a convertible, the Eclipse Spyder gives up only one mile per gallon to the coupe in fuel economy in all but the top-level V6 with automatic, and that drops only two mpg and only in the highway estimate.

As such, the Mitsubishi Eclipse offers something increasingly rare in the new-car market: a reasonably priced, sporty alternative to the bevy of small sedans. Prices start under $20,000, and even the base model is well equipped.

For 2008, all Eclipse models receive a Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS). Wheels on Eclipse GT models grow to 18-inch and all models with the Rockford-Fosgate stereo system now include SIRIUS satellite radio.

The Mitsubishi Eclipse Coupe is available in a limited-production "Special Edition", which comes with either the V-6 or 4-cylinder engine. The SE models combine an exclusive aerodynamic body package, a unique exterior graphic treatment, and interior enhancements.

> all Eclipse pictures

The Mitsubishi Eclipse comes with a 162-hp four-cylinder or a 263-hp V6, and both engines are offered with a manual or automatic transmission. For 2008, all models receive a standard Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS).

The Mitsubishi Eclipse GS ($19,999) is the entry-level model, powered by the four-cylinder with a standard five-speed manual. A four-speed Sportronic automatic is optional. The GS comes with cloth upholstery and an impressive list of standard features, including air conditioning, cruise control, a 140-watt AM/FM/CD/MP3 stereo, auto-off halogen headlamps, power windows, cruise control, and a unique dash-top audio display with clock. The GS Spyder adds a premium, Rockford Fosgate, 650-watt stereo with AM/FM/MP3 capability connected to nine speakers and subwoofer; a power convertible top; fog lights. For 2008, all models equipped with the Rockford Fosgate stereo system also receive SIRIUS satellite radio.

The premium audio system is optionally available on GS coupes in form of the Sun & Sound Package, which includes a power sunroof and the 650-watt Rockford Fosgate stereo with six CD changer, a 10-inch, cargo area-mounted subwoofer and control switches on the steering wheel. The Deluxe Leather Package, available with the GS Spyder only, adds leather-surfaced, heated front seats; heated outside mirrors; and a center-top dash display with ambient temperature and compass.

The Eclipse GT ($23,499) features the 263-hp V6 engine with six-speed manual transmission and standard fog lamps. A five-speed Sportronic automatic is optional. For 2008, GT models get standard 18-inch alloy wheels.

Two option packages are available for the GT coupe. The GT Sun & Sound Package is identical in content to the GS Sun & Sound Package. The Premium Sport Package, which is also available for the Spyder, includes the heated front seats with leather upholstery, automatic climate control, and a power drivers seat. Coupe models also receive a sunroof and the Rockford Fosgate stereo.

Also new for 2008 is a limited-production Special Edition trim available with either the V-6 or 4-cylinder engine. SE models combine an exclusive aerodynamic body package, a unique exterior graphic treatment, and interior enhancements.

The Mitsubishi Eclipse comes standard with front airbags, front side-impact airbags (for torso protection), and front-seat side curtain airbags (for head protection). The standard anti-lock brakes feature Electronic Brake-force Distribution, which balances front-rear brake application in emergency stops.