Automotive
When Mitsubishi set its sights on the American market, it did so with ambition and strategy - one of its boldest moves being a partnership with Chrysler Motor Corporation. This collaboration gave birth to a trio of sport coupes: the Mitsubishi Eclipse, the Plymouth Laser, and the Eagle Talon. While they shared platforms and much of their DNA, the Eclipse quickly carved out its own identity, becoming one of the most iconic sport compacts of the 1990s.
The first-generation Eclipse made its debut in 1990, offered with a wide range of engines, including turbocharged options and the rare-in-class all-wheel-drive layout. These performance credentials were not just for show - Mitsubishi's rally expertise was embedded in the Eclipse's drivetrain, delivering real-world handling and traction that made it stand out among front-wheel-drive rivals. However, early production runs weren’t without issues. Recalls due to automatic transmission failures - affecting over 24,000 units - cast a shadow over the otherwise promising launch.
The second-generation Eclipse, launched in the mid-1990s, is widely considered the pinnacle of the nameplate. With sleeker styling, refined handling, and continued turbocharged AWD availability, it cemented itself as a cult classic. Its fame was amplified when a neon-green, heavily modified second-gen Eclipse appeared in The Fast and the Furious(2001), instantly becoming a screen legend and symbol of tuner culture.
Unfortunately, the third generation marked a significant departure. Released in 2000, it abandoned all-wheel-drive options and shifted toward a heavier, less performance-oriented design. Built on the same platform as the Chrysler Sebring Coupe and Dodge Stratus Coupe - known informally as the "cloud cars" - this iteration of the Eclipse lost the sharp edge that made its predecessors special. Its design became rounder and more conservative, with spread-out headlights and a softened front fascia. While the sporty aesthetics remained to an extent, the Eclipse was no longer a serious contender in the sport-compact segment, especially as Honda’s Civic Si and Acura’s Integra Type R surged in popularity.
By 2005, Mitsubishi doubled down on styling with the fourth-generation Eclipse, giving it a more muscular and athletic body. Despite its bold looks, the drivetrain options were limited to a 2.4L inline-4 or a 3.8L V6, both front-wheel drive. Turbocharged variants and AWD were no longer part of the equation, signaling a final departure from the car's performance roots. The 2009 refresh brought some cosmetic updates - new wheels, a redesigned front bumper, and a few additional features - but by then, the Eclipse had become more about appearance than performance.
In the twilight of its production, the Eclipse appealed more to drivers wanting a sporty image without the demands of a high-strung sports car. It was stylish, reliable, and comfortable, but it could no longer claim the performance crown it once held. Mitsubishi officially discontinued the Eclipse after the 2012 model year, marking the end of an era for fans of affordable Japanese coupes.
Yet, even in its final forms, the Eclipse remained a beloved name in the Mitsubishi lineup - and like all aging vehicles, it demands expert care to stay on the road. Whether it’s replacing a lost key fob, reprogramming transponders, or unlocking a jammed door, SherlockLock is the trusted local locksmith for Mitsubishi Eclipse owners. With experience spanning all four generations, SherlockLock offers specialized automotive locksmith services to ensure your Eclipse - no matter the year - stays secure and accessible. Whether you're preserving a turbocharged legend or cruising in a later model, you can count on SherlockLock to deliver professional, responsive service wherever you are.
