ROAD TEST ~ 2011 MITSUBISHI ECLIPSE SPYDER

As an autojournalist, I'm keen to know what others have to say about a vehicle.
Not that I don't trust my observations, but after a week behind the wheel, I often wonder if I'm the only one who has a particular gripe, or if others share in my enthusiasm.
With the Mitsubishi Eclipse Spyder, it is apparent I'm out of alignment with at least some reviewers.
Not that these writers are incorrect about how its architecture and mechanicals make it less than a pure sportscar. The Eclipse is no Porsche 911 Turbo Cabriolet - or even a Miata.
But they have entirely missed the point of this vehicle. The same way movie critics slam James Bond flicks, despite their huge popularity.
The Eclipse Spyder, like a good Bond film, is all about fun. It's a treat for the eyes, provides a rush of adrenaline, and does all this at an affordable price.
The Spyder is available in two well-equipped models: the four-cylinder GS at $30,498 and the all-in, V6-powered GT-P for $35,998.
For 2011, this convertible hasn't changed much since the previous year, other than getting some additional content, a slightly lowered suspension (15 mm) and a few styling tweaks to the base GS model that include a new front and rear bumper treatment, new wheels and now dual exhausts.
Overall, the swoopy styling of the Eclipse - both convertible and coupe - turns heads, especially in Solar Yellow, as was my tester for the week. Its wide track, muscular haunches, big wheels, large-diameter exhaust outlets and black jet-fighter grille all combine for a look that is striking and purposeful - top down or up.
Release two latches, push a button, and in about 19 seconds the Eclipse's woven cloth top disappears into the trunk beneath a flush fitting tonneau cover.
With the top down, there's no unsightly bump to mess with the Spyder's clean profile.
Sure, it does impact on trunk space, but that has been closed off so that you don't accidentally shove a golf bag where it will get in the way.
With the multilayer top raised, the interior is snug, but despite Mitsubishi's efforts to reduce wind noise, you are still subjected to a fair bit of road and engine noise that could be corrected with more sound deadening materials.
Another small gripe, and this is typical of most convertibles, is a lack of rear visibility.
I appreciate that Mitsubishi has included a glass rear window (with timed defroster), but it is tiny, and with a relatively high trunk, backing up can be a chore. Thankfully, the company has also included a standard-equipped rearview camera to help with this task.
Other standard features on the outside include dual heated power side mirrors, rear spoiler and 18-inch, 10-spoke alloy wheels.
On the inside, you get plenty of content, even at the base level. This includes heated front seats, power windows and locks with lockout protection, 650-watt, nine-speaker Rockford premium audio system with speed compensated volume control and Topstack open/close sound compensation, six-month subscription to SIRIUS satellite radio, steering wheel audio controls, Bluetooth, rearview camera and more.
There are plenty of standard safety and handling features like four-wheel disc brakes (vented on GT-P, vented front on GS) with ABS, electronic brakeforce distribution, traction control and active stability control. You also get dual front airbags, side airbags and a tire pressure monitoring system.
Bump up to the GT-P trim level, and you get added amenities like leather-trimmed seating surfaces, power six-way driver seat, automatic climate control, aluminum pedals and scuff plate, HID projector-type headlamps and more.
Under the hood, the GS Spyder gets a 2.4-litre, 16-valve, SOHC four-cylinder engine that provides 162 hp and 162 lb/ft of torque. If all you're looking for is a reasonably-priced, exotic-looking ragtop that'll give you the benefits of open-top motoring without getting you in too much trouble, this one's for you.
If, on the other hand you need some "go" to match the "show," then spend the extra $5,500 for 103 more horses, upgraded transmission and the added content.
The GT-P comes standard with a 3.8-litre, 24-valve, SOHC V6 that delivers 265 hp and 262 lb/ft of torque. With it, you get a standard six-speed manual (five-speed on the GS), with a five-speed sequential shift automatic available for an added $1,200 (four-speed on the GS).
The company calls it a "high performance, grand touring/sport convertible," which is a lot to live up to for a front-driver.
When you've got that much power being routed to the same wheels that do the steering, there's no avoiding the inevitable torque-steer. And with a 60/40 front/rear weight distribution, it feels a bit front-heavy. All-wheel-drive or rear-drive (like the Genesis Coupe), would make the Eclipse more of a pleasure in the corners.
That aside, the six-speed manual, with its short throws and smooth clutch, is a joy to work. The engine's relatively broad torque curve provides plenty of thrust as you climb through the gears. And the throaty exhaust note from the dual pipes is an added bonus.
The front leather seats in my GT-P tester were comfortable and supportive and the cockpit is well laid out with large, easy-to-read instruments and intuitive controls.
The interior is very monochromatic, but the chrome rings around the instruments and metallic accents provide a nice break to the abundant charcoal and black.
The rear seats, if you can call them that, are more of an upholstered shelf with a very upright seatback. Centred between each is the Eclipse's eight-inch subwoofer. You can jam somebody in back for short trips, but luggage and groceries are a better fit.
Sure, the Spyder car does have its shortcomings, but these fade quickly when you drop the top and feel the cool breeze through your hair on an otherwise sticky afternoon.
And I lost count of the appreciative smiles and nods I received from pedestrians as I cruised by in this everyday exotic.
It's a pleasing blend of striking style, reasonable price and big-time fun.
And if that trumps your need for a "pointable," track-ready roadster, then the Eclipse Spyder is well worth a look.


BODY STYLE: Two-door, 2+2 convertible
DRIVE METHOD: front-engine, front-wheel-drive
ENGINE: GS - 2.4-litre, 16-valve, SOHC four cylinder (162 hp and 162 lb/ft of torque); GT-P - 3.8-litre, 24-valve, SOHC V6 (265 hp and 262 lb/ft of torque)
FUEL ECONOMY: GS (manual) - 10.6/7.3 L/100km (city/highway); GT-P (manual) - 13.1/8.0 L/100km (city/highway)
PRICE: GS $30,498; GT-P $35,998