The Mitsubishi Eclipse III (3G), specifically the facelifted version produced from 2003 to 2005, represented a significant evolution of the popular Eclipse sports coupe and liftback. This generation, built on the DS platform (shared with the Chrysler Sebring and Dodge Stratus), aimed to broaden the Eclipse’s appeal with a more refined interior and updated styling. The 2.4-liter (147 hp) variant occupied a middle ground in the lineup, offering a balance between performance and affordability. It served as a step up from the base 2.0-liter engine, while remaining more accessible than the turbocharged GS-T and GSX models. This particular configuration was primarily marketed towards buyers seeking a stylish, comfortable, and reasonably powerful coupe for daily driving.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mitsubishi |
| Model | Eclipse |
| Generation | Eclipse III (3G, facelift 2003) |
| Type (Engine) | 2.4 (147 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2003 |
| End of production | 2005 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Coupe, Liftback |
| Seats | 4 |
| Doors | 2 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 10.2 l/100 km (23.1 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 7.6 l/100 km (30.9 US mpg) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 9 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.2 kg/Nm |
| Power | 147 Hp @ 5500 rpm |
| Power per litre | 62.6 Hp/l |
| Torque | 214 Nm @ 4000 rpm (157.84 lb.-ft. @ 4000 rpm) |
| Maximum engine speed | 6000 rpm |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | 4G64 |
| Engine displacement | 2350 cm3 (143.41 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 86.5 mm (3.41 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 100 mm (3.94 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 9:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | SOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.3 l (4.54 US qt | 3.78 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 7 l (7.4 US qt | 6.16 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1320 kg (2910.1 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1750 kg (3858.09 lbs.) |
| Max load | 430 kg (947.99 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 479 l (16.92 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 62 l (16.38 US gal | 13.64 UK gal) |
| Length | 4490 mm (176.77 in.) |
| Width | 1750 mm (68.9 in.) |
| Height | 1310 mm (51.57 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2560 mm (100.79 in.) |
| Front track | 1510 mm (59.45 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1510 mm (59.45 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 148 mm (5.83 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 10.8 m (35.43 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 5 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent type McPherson, Transverse stabilizer |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs, 276×26 mm |
| Rear brakes | Drum, 229 mm |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 195/65 R15 |
| Wheel rims size | 6J x 15 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this Eclipse variant is the 4G64 2.4-liter inline-four engine. This engine, a member of Mitsubishi’s 4G6 family, utilizes a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) design and multi-port fuel injection. The 9:1 compression ratio was a compromise between performance and the ability to run on readily available fuel grades. The 4G64 is known for its relative simplicity and durability, though it lacks the sophisticated features found in some contemporary engines. The five-speed manual transmission was the standard offering, providing a direct connection between the engine and the front wheels. The transmission’s gear ratios were tuned for a balance of acceleration and fuel efficiency, though it wasn’t particularly sporty compared to the closer ratios found in performance-oriented models.
Driving Characteristics
The 147 horsepower and 157.84 lb-ft of torque delivered by the 2.4-liter engine provided adequate, but not exhilarating, performance. Acceleration from 0 to 60 mph typically took around 8-9 seconds. The engine felt reasonably responsive in everyday driving situations, with sufficient power for merging onto highways and passing slower vehicles. However, compared to the turbocharged GS-T and GSX models, or even the higher-output versions of the 2.4-liter engine, this variant felt noticeably less powerful. The manual transmission offered a more engaging driving experience than the optional four-speed automatic, allowing drivers to better control the engine’s power band. The front-wheel-drive configuration, while contributing to fuel efficiency, could exhibit torque steer under hard acceleration.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 2.4-liter Eclipse typically came equipped with standard features such as air conditioning, power windows and locks, and an AM/FM stereo. Higher trim levels, such as the ES or GT, added features like alloy wheels, a sunroof, upgraded audio systems, and cruise control. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with optional leather available on some trims. The dashboard layout was functional and straightforward, with easy-to-read gauges. Optional extras included a premium sound system, a power driver’s seat, and side airbags.
Chassis & Braking
The Eclipse III utilized an independent McPherson strut suspension in the front and an independent multi-link suspension in the rear. This setup provided a comfortable ride quality, while also offering decent handling characteristics. The front brakes were ventilated discs, providing adequate stopping power, while the rear brakes were drum brakes, a cost-saving measure that was common in this class of vehicle. Anti-lock brakes (ABS) were standard, enhancing safety. The suspension tuning was geared towards comfort rather than outright performance, resulting in a slightly softer and more forgiving ride compared to the sportier GS-T and GSX models.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 2.4-liter Eclipse was generally well-received by critics as a stylish and affordable coupe. It offered a good balance of features and performance for the price. However, it was often criticized for its lack of outright power compared to its turbocharged siblings. Fuel economy was considered average for its class. Compared to competitors like the Honda Civic Coupe and Toyota Celica, the Eclipse offered a more aggressive styling and a slightly more spacious interior. Reliability was generally good, though some owners reported issues with the engine’s timing belt and the automatic transmission.
Legacy
The 2.4-liter Eclipse III remains a popular choice among used car buyers seeking an affordable and stylish coupe. The 4G64 engine is known for its durability, though regular maintenance, including timely timing belt replacement, is crucial. Parts availability is generally good, and the Eclipse’s relatively simple mechanical design makes it relatively easy to repair. While it may not offer the same level of performance as the turbocharged models, the 2.4-liter variant provides a comfortable and reliable driving experience, making it a viable option for those seeking a classic early 2000s coupe.
