2009 Mitsubishi Eclipse- Auto Car

Spicing up its 2009 Eclipse, Mitsubishi decided to do away with one sports car styling cue and add another.

Previewed at the 2009 Chicago auto show, the updated '09 Eclipse loses the model's unique "light focuser" headlights in favor of projector-style beams, while gaining a new, blacked-out front bumper resembling the latest Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution and Nissan GT-R.

For 2009, Eclipse GT models also get a new dual exhaust system that boosts the 3.8-liter MIVEC V-6 engine's output to 265 hp (a 2 hp bump), standard Active Stability Control, a new rear wing, and HID headlamps.

The Eclipse GS continues with its 162-hp 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine, teamed with a five-speed manual or an optional four-speed automatic transmission. The Eclipse GT comes standard with a six-speed manual and optional five-speed automatic transmission (both automatic transmissions feature Sportronic shifters to allow manual gearshift control).

Four-wheel disc brakes are standard on all models, with anti-lock brakes and electronic brake-force distribution, plus larger, ventilated rear discs on the GT. A 650-watt Rockford-Fosgate sound system is optional.