Mitsubishi today unveiled the Eclipse Spyder, a convertible version of its popular fourth-generation Eclipse coupe described as an “attainable exotic.” Eclipse Spyder is the third generation open-top model and will sell for $26,000. Eclipse Spyder is offered in two trim levels: the GT and the GS powered by 3.8-liter V6 and 2.4-liter 4-cylinder MIVEC engines respectively. More info after the jump…

Design highlights

• Eclipse Spyder uses sleek, taut and muscular lines to create a shape that is cool and aggressive whether the cloth top is up or down.
• Large-sized headlamps crafted to flow into the bodylines, and chrome-look LED tail lamps distinguish the exterior and generate a sporty appearance with a strong sophisticated flavor.
• Using an instrument panel that houses distinctive motorcycle-inspired gauges and ice-blue night illumination for better legibility, the interior styling projects the cool image and creates the feel-good space that convertible owners look for.

Engine, transmission, and brakes

• The Eclipse Spyder GT mates a 3.8-liter V6 MIVEC engine to either a six-speed manual transmission or a sport-mode equipped five-speed automatic. Pumping out a maximum of 195 kW (260 ps) and 35.7 kg-m (350 N-m) of torque, the Spyder GT accelerates from zero to 60 mph (zero to 96 km/h) in about seven seconds.
• The Eclipse Spyder GS mates a 2.4-liter in-line 4-cylinder MIVEC engine to either a five-speed manual transmission or a sport-mode equipped four-speed automatic. Producing a maximum power of 119kW (162ps), the Spyder GS returns excellent fuel efficiency, rated to achieve 30 mpg (12.7 km/liter) in highway driving by EPA testing standards.
• The GT employs 4-wheel disc brakes, while the GS uses a drum-in-disc system for the rear brakes.

Trim & equipment

• In a premium-level design that enhances its appearance and convenience, the third-generation Eclipse Spyder features an automatic soft top which smoothly folds completely out of sight under a flush-fitting hydraulic powered tonneau panel in about 19 seconds.
• Both GT and GS trim levels come standard with 17-inch alloy road wheels, air conditioning, an advanced dual-stage driver and passenger seat SRS air bag system, head protecting seat-mounted side air bags, an anti-lock brake system (ABS) with electronic brake-force distribution (EBD), cruise control, engine immobilizer and keyless entry.
• Featured in Eclipse launched last year and in Outlander sold in Japan, a highly acclaimed audio system was co-developed with Rockford Fosgate a leading American car audio system manufacturer. This premium audio system features a 650 Watt power amp with a six-disc, in-dash CD changer that can also play MP3 files.
• For the Eclipse Spyder, this system features a subwoofer center-mounted under the rear seat. It provides unique automatic sound adjustment and equalization for the different sound conditions under top-up or top-down driving.
• Leather seating surfaces, heated front seats and heated exterior mirrors together with outside temperature and compass displays standard on the GT are available as options on the GS.
• GT is available with a premium package that features 18-inch alloy wheels with 235/45 R18 tires, a six-way power driver’s seat, aluminum pedals and an automatic climate control system.

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