New 2009 Mitsubishi Eclipse Spyder

Making minor, yet impressive changes from 2008, the 2009 Mitsubishi Eclipse Spyder is still built for speed, safety and of course—style.

Just like the Eclipse, the Spyder has two trim levels—the standard GS and powerful GT.  The new look includes a blacked-out center where the bumper and grille meet and the new-look rear fascia is more aerodynamic.  The GT comes equipped with a new rear spoiler and dual exhausts.  Stiffer design means better handling, while the four-wheel independent suspension will ensure a more comfortable ride. 

However, unlike the Eclipse, the Spyder has a fully-lined power convertible cloth top that lowers in 20 seconds with the push of a button and disappears beneath a hard tonneau cover.

Starting at $26,449, the GS comes equipped with a 162-horsepower, 2.4-liter MIVEC engine and is available in both five-speed manual and four-speed Sportronic® automatic transmissions.  17-inch alloy wheels and the 650-watt Rockford Fosgate® sound system with a 6-CD/MP3 changer come standard.  Fuel economy for the GS is average at 19 MPG city and 26 MPG highway. 

The GT starts at $29,649 and boasts a 265-horsepower, 3.8-liter MIVEC V6 engine and is available in both six-speed manual and five-speed Sportronic® automatic transmissions.  18-inch alloy wheels, HID headlamps, rear spoiler, 650-watt Rockford Fosgate® sound system with a 6-CD/MP3 changer with six months of pre-paid SIRIUS Satellite Radio are all standard features.  Where the GS gets average fuel economy, the GT struggles with 16/25 MPG city/highway for booth manual and automatic transmissions.

Both trims feature Sportronic® mode, which is available on both GS and GT automatic transmissions.  Sportronic® allows the driver to shift gears manually with just the push of a lever. 

With the Spyder, safety comes standard. Four-wheel anti-lock brakes with Electronic Brakeforce Distribution provide improved stopping power and control. Four airbags, offer superior protection for front seat passengers. A tire pressure monitoring system helps to keep tires inflated, which result in better gas mileage and prevents blowouts.

Put the top down, crank up the music and let the 2009 Mitsubishi Eclipse Spyder make all of your driving summertime driving.