Why Do So Many Car Enthusiasts Dislike the Early 2000s Mitsubishi Eclipse?
If you’ve spent any time around car fans, you’ve probably heard a few jokes—or outright rants—about the early 2000s Mitsubishi Eclipse. There’s a reason for that. The third-generation Eclipse, which hit the streets around 2000, took a sharp turn away from its roots. For a lot of longtime fans, it was like watching your favorite band suddenly switch genres. But what exactly went wrong? Let’s dig into why this particular Eclipse became the butt of so many jokes—and why it still sparks heated debates at car meets.
How Did the Third-Gen Eclipse Lose Its Edge?
The original Eclipse models from the 1990s were known for their turbocharged engines, all-wheel drive options, and a reputation for being tuner-friendly. They were quick, agile, and had a certain street cred that made them a favorite among import enthusiasts. Then came the early 2000s redesign. Mitsubishi swapped out the sharp, sporty lines for a rounder, softer look. Under the hood, things got even more controversial: the turbocharged engines were gone, replaced by naturally aspirated V6s and four-cylinders. All-wheel drive? Also gone.
The result? A car that looked more like a cruiser than a street racer. Performance numbers dropped, and the Eclipse lost much of the raw, engaging feel that made earlier models special. For drivers who loved the thrill of the first two generations, this felt like a betrayal.
Was the Eclipse Really That Bad to Drive?
Let’s be fair—the third-gen Eclipse wasn’t a terrible car. It was comfortable, reasonably reliable, and had a decent amount of power in the V6 version. But compared to its competition at the time, it just didn’t stack up. The Honda Prelude, Toyota Celica, and even the Ford Mustang offered sharper handling or more exciting powertrains. According to period reviews from Car and Driver and Motor Trend, the Eclipse’s steering felt numb, and its suspension was tuned more for comfort than cornering.
For a car that once prided itself on being a tuner’s dream, this was a letdown. The aftermarket scene moved on, and the Eclipse faded into the background.
Did Mitsubishi Miss the Mark on Design?
Design is always subjective, but the third-gen Eclipse’s styling was a big departure from the aggressive, angular look of its predecessors. The new, bubbly shape was meant to appeal to a broader audience, but it ended up alienating the core fanbase. Many enthusiasts felt the car looked more like a “chick car” (their words, not mine) than a serious sports coupe.
It’s worth noting that this era saw a lot of automakers softening their designs to chase mainstream buyers. The Eclipse wasn’t alone in this, but it paid a steeper price because its identity was so closely tied to performance and attitude.
Are There Any Bright Spots for the Third-Gen Eclipse?
Despite the criticism, the third-gen Eclipse did have its fans. It was more affordable than some rivals, and the V6 GT model offered respectable straight-line speed for the price. The interior was roomy, and the car was easy to live with day-to-day. For drivers who wanted a sporty-looking coupe without the high insurance costs or rough ride of a true sports car, it made sense.
Plus, nostalgia has a funny way of working. Some younger enthusiasts are starting to appreciate these cars for what they are—a snapshot of early 2000s design and culture. You’ll even see a few tastefully modified examples popping up at car shows, wearing their period-correct body kits and neon lights with pride.
What Can We Learn from the Eclipse’s Fall from Grace?
The story of the early 2000s Mitsubishi Eclipse is a classic case of a brand losing touch with its core audience. By chasing a broader market, Mitsubishi ended up with a car that didn’t fully satisfy anyone. It’s a lesson that still resonates in the auto industry today: authenticity matters, especially when it comes to performance cars.
The big takeaway? The Eclipse’s story isn’t about perfection—it’s about smarter adjustments. Start with one change this week, and you’ll likely spot the difference by month’s end. Whether you’re restoring an old favorite or shopping for your next project car, remember what made you fall in love with driving in the first place. That’s the real key to finding a ride you’ll never want to let go.
