Design

Design Mitsubishi calls the 2006 Eclipse a “two-plus-two grand touring coupe” and wants people to think of it as an “attainable exotic.” While we’re not sure we’d go quite that far, this new design does go a long way towards achieving those goals.

Mitsubishi calls the 2006 Eclipse a “two-plus-two grand touring coupe” and wants people to think of it as an “attainable exotic.” While we’re not sure we’d go quite that far, this new design does go a long way towards achieving those goals.

Gone are the relatively conservative looks and heavy-handed lower body strakes of the previous generation, replaced by a much more organic and muscular look. Pronounced fender bulges, a steeply raked windshield and rear decklid, and a rounded bustle-like rear end give the Mitsubishi Eclipse a sense of motion. The wedge shape and nicely integrated rear spoiler also give the car a sporty low-slung look that does much to disguise the car’s increased dimensions.

Inside you’ll find an attractive interior that matches the Eclipse’s updated exterior. A stylish wave-form look to the dash, soft-touch materials, and faux metal accents give the interior a look that’s fresh and modern.

While this new design is generally pleasing, there are a couple of details that strike discordant notes in this otherwise harmonious design. To our eyes, the triangular wedge that divides the upper air intake adds an extra measure of complexity that takes away from what would otherwise be an attractive front end. We could also do without the clear taillight lenses that, while trendy of late, are bound to look dated sooner rather that later.