2002 Mitsubishi Eclipse Spyder Review
2002 Mitsubishi Eclipse Spyder Review
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Edmunds' Expert Review
by the Edmunds Experts
Pros
- Distinctive styling, V6 power in GT trim, easy-to-use convertible top, wind buffeting kept to a minimum.
Cons
- Uninspired interior design, intolerable rear seats, antilock brakes are available only as part of an expensive package.
What’s new
Only trivial changes are in store for the Eclipse drop-top this year. Two new exterior colors (Titanium and Flash Blue) are added, and as well as a Mitsubishi triple-diamond chrome badge. The interior is upgraded slightly with illuminated vanity mirrors and a glovebox lamp.
Edmunds says
A fun drop-top, but those seeking real performance should look elsewhere.
Cost to DriveCost to drive estimates for the 2002 Mitsubishi Eclipse Spyder GS 2dr Convertible (2.4L 4cyl 5M) and comparison vehicles are based on 15,000 miles per year (with a mix of 55% city and 45% highway driving) and energy estimates of $3.50 per gallon for regular unleaded in Ohio.
Monthly estimates based on costs in Ohio
$194/mo for Eclipse Spyder GS
Eclipse Spyder GS
vs
$179/mo
Avg. Compact Car
Vehicle overview
The Eclipse Spyder is intended to appeal to those who seek reasonably priced convertible fun and sporty looks, but don't want to sacrifice a rear seat or comfort by opting for a two-seat roadster.
The Eclipse is offered in two trim levels: GS and GT. Both models can be equipped with either a five-speed manual or four-speed automatic transmission. The automatic features Mitsubishi's Sportronic, a special mode that allows the driver to select gears sequentially. The base four-cylinder engine found in the GS displaces 2.4 liters and produces 147 horsepower (140 hp with the automatic). The GT model comes equipped with a responsive 3.0-liter V6 engine making 200 horsepower.
Both Eclipse Spyder models are heavy on standard equipment. Highlights include power windows and door locks, a power-operated top, an engine immobilizer and anti-theft system, air conditioning, a CD player and remote keyless entry.
For the most toys, pick the GT. This nets the 17-inch wheels and four-wheel disc brakes, as well as opening up access to the swank option packages. The Premium package adds items like a premium audio system with an in-dash four-disc CD changer, power leather seats, antilock brakes and front side airbags. Traction control is also part of this package, but only if the automatic transmission is ordered.
Mitsubishi calls the Eclipse's styling "geo-mechanical." Our editors are split on the overall look, but the arched fenders and ribbed doors certainly give the Eclipse an edge in distinctiveness.
The interior is less successful. Featuring a symmetrical cockpit design, it is lackluster in appearance and heavy on low-grade interior materials. At least the convertible top is simple to use; push the buttons in the two latches to release it, and then let the automatic mechanism take over. Once the top is in its well, the hooks of the latches stick out, so it looks more polished with the soft tonneau cover in place. Mitsu is kind enough to provide a glass rear window and associated defroster.
With the windows up, the driver and front seat passenger are well-shielded from wind buffeting; a veritable Fort Knox maintains your 'do, while giving you enough wind-and-sun exposure to remind you that yes, indeed, you are in a convertible. Rear seat passengers, however, don't have it so good. Not only are they bombarded with what feels like the mistral, they have minimal knee room, toe space or shoulder space.
The Eclipse Spyder is generally pleasant to drive. The ride quality isn't abrasive, and both engines work fine (though the V6 certainly makes the experience more enjoyable). Non-demanding consumers should be happy with this car.
But the remainder will likely find the Eclipse coming up short. The almost unanimous consensus amongst Edmunds.com editors is that they would purchase, as well as recommend to others, a Ford Mustang convertible long before they would the Eclipse Spyder. We would even suggest that a Mazda Miata would make a fine choice if you don't absolutely, positively need that rear seat or 2 more cubic feet in the trunk.
Consumer reviews
Read what other owners think about the Used 2002 Mitsubishi Eclipse Spyder.
5 star(70%)
4 star(14%)
3 star(12%)
2 star(4%)
1 star(0%)
77 reviews
Trending topics in reviews
Most helpful consumer reviews
5 out of 5 stars
One powerfull Spyder
#1Spyder, 09/27/2009
2001 Mitsubishi Eclipse Spyder GT 2dr Convertible (3.0L 6cyl 5M)
This is my first Mitsubishi - a 2001 eclipse spyder convertible and I couldn't ask for a nicer ride, with lots of power. I have done a few upgrades and wow!, this v6 kicks but, but you gotta do a couple of things to wake the motor up. My ride has about 300 foot pounds of torque. This car is like a dream to drive anywhere. With a sound system upgrade how could you not look an think wow a … performance sounding, stereo pounding, sleek styling car.
4.75 out of 5 stars
I love my little car
mjstone323, 10/19/2010
2001 Mitsubishi Eclipse Spyder GT 2dr Convertible (3.0L 6cyl 4A)
I bought this car because I wanted something that wasn't falling apart - I had driven beaters my entire life and I just wanted something nice. Bonus for the convertible top! And it's got a pretty comfortable back seat - hard to find that in a convertible. I have only had to make minor repairs in the 5 years I've had it. It's just a wonderful car, so much fun to drive, and I get a lot of … compliments. I would recommend it to anyone.
4.88 out of 5 stars
01Spyder
INMichael, 03/27/2002
2001 Mitsubishi Eclipse Spyder GT 2dr Convertible (3.0L 6cyl 5M)
My only complaints are, the center counsole doesn't lock, so you can't keep anything vauleable in it if you park it with the top down, and with the top up it creates really bad blind spots.
4.75 out of 5 stars
Fun Ride
chicubsgal31, 10/24/2006
2001 Mitsubishi Eclipse Spyder GT 2dr Convertible (3.0L 6cyl 5M)
I have had this car for almost a year now and have had no problems whatsoever. It is very fun in the summer, but able to keep warm in the winter as well. Leather seats a must with the convertible. I drive back and forth from home to school, a 200 mile drive, every weekend and it handles great on the interstates.
We have a limited number of reviews for the 2002 Mitsubishi Eclipse Spyder, so we've included reviews for other years of the Eclipse Spyder since its last redesign.
2002 Eclipse Spyder Highlights
GS
Base MSRP Excludes Destination Fee | $23,617 |
---|---|
Engine Type | Gas |
Combined MPG | 22 MPG |
Cost to Drive | $194/month |
Seating | 4 seats |
Cargo Capacity All Seats In Place | 7.2 cu.ft. |
Drivetrain | front wheel drive |
Warranty | 3 years / 36,000 miles |
Safety
Key safety features on the Eclipse Spyder include:
- Alarm
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