2005 Mitsubishi Eclipse Spyder New Car Buyer's Guide

What's New for the 2005 Mitsubishi Eclipse Spyder?
A new-for-2005 Remix Edition adds some flair to the Eclipse GS Spyder. The package includes a platinum exterior color, color-keyed mirrors, fog lamps, chrome wheels, a chrome exhaust tip, a power sunroof, and a leather interior. A 210-watt Infinity sound system with an in-dash six-disc CD changer keeps tunes flowing. Liquid Silver and UV Blue join the color chart.

Advantages of the 2005 Mitsubishi Eclipse Spyder:

• Youthful image
• Torquey V6 engine
• Seven-year, 100,000-mile powertrain warranty
• Free scheduled maintenance for duration of basic warranty

Objections to the 2005 Mitsubishi Eclipse Spyder:

• Uninhabitable rear seat
• Inexpensive interior materials
• Sporty exterior belies wallowing ride and soft suspension

Editor's Advice:
Looking for a comfortable convertible cruiser that purportedly seats four? Few choices await those who want to spend less than $30,000: Chrysler's PT Cruiser and Sebring, the Jeep Wrangler Unlimited, the Mini Cooper, the Mitsubishi Eclipse Spyder, the Toyota Camry Solara, and the Volkswagen New Beetle comprise the limited selection of affordable four-place drop-tops. While less demanding customers may deem the Eclipse a comfortable and sporty car, enthusiasts will find fault with its tepid acceleration, mushy suspension, cushy cabin and detached steering. As long as you're not expecting tarmac-searing performance, the 2005 Mitsubishi Eclipse Spyder makes for a decent warm-weather runabout, especially given its outstanding powertrain warranty and free scheduled maintenance programs.