Handling

It’s hard to believe that this car, touted as a thrilling sports coupe, comes from the same minds that developed the amazing Evolution. One can only imagine what the Evo’s turbocharged engine and all-wheel-drive capability could do for this bloated two-door, but that’s a point for another day.

What we currently have is the 2006 Mitsubishi Eclipse, complete with its large turning radius and annoying torque-steer that rears its ugly head at green lights as well as during drop-a-gear-or-two highway passes. The one positive about all this front-end power is its ability to aggressively pull the Eclipse through the exit of a tight corner, which can be a good time. There’s minimal body roll showcased in the twisties, yet the heavy tail end can be sent slightly adrift by lifting off the throttle to induce a touch of oversteer. The power rack-and-pinion steering is tight and devoid of any dead spots. However, continuous correction is required on grooved highways, and the feel is numb compared to the responsive Evolution. All occupants will notice the Eclipse’s firm ride that lands it someplace between a track-ready Nissan 350Z and a Hyundai Azera with its Serta-sourced suspension.