One downside to many sporty cars is low mileage numbers. There’s a zesty engine, but the gas guzzle-quotient means thousands of dollars in annual fuel costs. Mitsubishi Eclipse, which underwent a complete redesign in 2000, gets sedan-like fuel economy. Sold in three trim versions (RS, GS, and GT), Eclipse comes with a standard 5-speed manual transmission. The heavy performing GT, equipped with a 3.0 liter 200 horsepower V6 engine, offers an optional 4-speed automatic transmission with Sportronic Sequential Shifter (which means the driver can use automatic mode or opt for manual gear selections). Eclipse GT with Sportronic transmission nabs miles per gallon estimates of 20 city/28 highway.

Designated a 3-door sport coupe because of a hatchback configuration, Mitsubishi Eclipse can accommodate golf clubs, skis, and other outdoor equipment because of a 50/50 folding rear seat (GS and GT models). For the driver, the meaty steering wheel provides thumb indentations at the 3 and 9 o’clock positions. Standard appointments on Eclipse GT include air conditioning, cruise control, leather wrapped steering wheel, cargo area light, rear spoiler, electric rear window defroster with timer, AM/FM/CD player with 6 speakers, and 17-inch aluminum alloy wheels. MSRP of Eclipse GT with Sportronic is $21,947.
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