Mitsubishi Introduces "Attainable Exotic" 2007 Eclipse Spyder

Mitsubishi unveiled the all-new 2007 Eclipse Spyder at the North American International Auto Show this week and in so doing, promised a showroom floor (due in April) model of modest price and exotic capability. Based on the fourth-generation Eclipse coupe introduced in 2005, the GT specification Eclipse Spyder combines 260-horsepower, 3.8-liter V6 performance with a convertible top and outstanding value. The 2007 Eclipse Spyder arrives in Mitsubishi dealerships in April.

Designed to appeal to convertible and sports car enthusiasts of all ages, the 2007 Eclipse Spyder echoes the concept-car design of its coupe sibling with sleek, taut, muscular lines and engaging details such as bright finish LED tail lamps and monocle-lens head lamps.

"The new Eclipse Spyder captures the essence of Mitsubishi by offering customers a stand-out design and performance at an affordable price," said Rich Gilligan, president and CEO of Mitsubishi Motors North America. "Its high-quality automatic top makes Eclipse Spyder a convertible for all seasons and is more like a top you would expect to see on a US$40,000 car than one that starts at under US$26,000."

The 2007 Eclipse Spyder is the third in a series of six new Mitsubishi vehicles to be introduced in less than three years. The first of these was the 2006 Eclipse coupe introduced in June 2005, followed by the all-new mid-size Raider pickup truck. Upcoming new models include a second-generation Outlander SUV, the Lancer sedan and the tenth version of the legendary Lancer Evolution.

Like the Eclipse coupe, the Eclipse Spyder will be offered in two trim levels. The GS model is powered by a 162-horsepower, 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine mated to a five-speed manual transmission. A four-speed automatic transmission is available as an option.

The Eclipse Spyder GT challenges more expensive sports models with its 260-horsepower, 3.8-liter V6 engine mated to either a standard six-speed manual transmission or an optional five-speed automatic. The GT's 258 lb.-ft. of peak torque gives this model "right now" off-the-line response. With the standard six-speed manual transmission, the Spyder GT can accelerate from zero to 60 mph in about seven seconds.

Both the four-cylinder and V6 engines feature Mitsubishi Innovative Valve timing and Electronic lift Control (MIVEC) technology to help optimize engine efficiency and power across a broad engine speed range. The exhaust systems for both Eclipse Spyder models have been specially tuned to project a powerful, deep note through the oversize tailpipe (chrome on GT). The Eclipse Spyder GS is rated to achieve 29 mpg on the EPA highway test cycle. To offer the driver a more lively driving experience, both Eclipse automatic transmissions feature Sportronic shifters to allow manual gear shift control.

Premium-Level Automatic Top

Perhaps most impressive about the Eclipse Spyder's automatic top is that it folds completely out of sight under a flush-fitting powered tonneau cover in 19 seconds. This premium-level design eliminates a visible top stack that gives some convertibles a "baby buggy" look.

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