The Evolution of the Mitsubishi Eclipse: From Sports Car to Crossover

The Mitsubishi Eclipse is a car that has gone through a lot of changes over the years. Originally introduced in 1989, it was a two-door sports car that quickly became popular among enthusiasts. However, in recent years, the Eclipse has undergone a transformation and has become a crossover SUV. In this blog, we will explore the evolution of the Mitsubishi Eclipse, from a sports car to a crossover, and how Firkins Mitsubishi in Bradenton FL has been a part of this journey.

Sports Car Era (1989-2011)

The Mitsubishi Eclipse was first introduced in 1989 as a two-door sports car. It was designed to compete with the likes of the Toyota Celica and the Honda Prelude. The first-generation Eclipse had a sleek and aerodynamic design, with a turbocharged engine and a front-wheel-drive system. The Eclipse was a popular sports car among car enthusiasts and it was featured in several movies and video games. It made its debut on the big screen in the popular movie “The Fast and the Furious” in 2001. The car was driven by the character Brian O’Conner, played by the late actor Paul Walker. The Eclipse was also featured in several racing video games, including Need for Speed and Gran Turismo.

One of the notable features of the Eclipse sports car was its ability to be customized and modified. Enthusiasts were able to add performance upgrades, such as turbochargers, exhaust systems, and suspension components, to enhance the car’s power and handling. In addition, cosmetic modifications, such as body kits, spoilers, and custom paint jobs, were also popular among Eclipse owners.

Over the years, the Eclipse evolved and went through four generations, with the final generation ending in 2011.

Crossover Era (2018-Present)

Mitsubishi discontinued the Eclipse in 2011. However, in 2017, Mitsubishi announced that they would be bringing back the Eclipse, but this time as a crossover SUV. The new Eclipse Cross was unveiled at the 2017 Geneva Motor Show and it went on sale in the United States in early 2018.

The new 2018 Eclipse Cross had a bold and modern design, with a spacious and modern interior with a 7-inch touchscreen display, a rearview camera, and a range of advanced safety features. The Eclipse Cross is powered by a 1.5-liter turbocharged engine that produces 152 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque. It comes with a continuously variable transmission (CVT) and it’s available in front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive. While the Eclipse Cross is not a traditional sports car, it still offers a fun and engaging driving experience. Its turbocharged engine provides quick acceleration and its responsive steering and agile handling make it enjoyable to drive. In addition, the Eclipse Cross has a ground clearance of 8.5 inches, making it suitable for off-road adventures.

Firkins Mitsubishi was quick to recognize the potential of the Eclipse Cross and added it to their inventory along with a wide range of new and used Mitsubishi vehicles. They also provide a variety of services, including financing, leasing, and maintenance. Firkins Mitsubishi has a team of certified technicians who use genuine Mitsubishi parts and accessories to ensure that your vehicle runs smoothly and safely.

If you’re looking for an Eclipse Cross, Firkins Mitsubishi in Bradenton FL is the place to go. Their commitment to customer service and providing the latest models has helped them to become one of the top Mitsubishi dealerships in the area.

In conclusion, the Mitsubishi Eclipse has had an interesting evolution, from a sports car to a crossover SUV. Firkins Mitsubishi has been a key player in this evolution, offering the latest models and top-notch service to their customers. Whether you’re looking for a sports car or a crossover SUV, Firkins Mitsubishi has a wide range of options to choose from, and their team is committed to providing exceptional customer service.