I have no clue of why Mitsu is using the CVT vs the traditional transmission.
I do have a clue about traction and stability control. Traction control keeps your tires from spinning on slippery surfaces by reducing fuel flow and/or pumping the brakes. Typically ABS and traction control use the same sensors.
Stability control is more concerned with keeping your vehicle on the intended path. If the computer senses (based on throttle opening, vehicle speed, steering wheel angle, etc.) that you are about to be out of control as you blast down the exit ramp, then it will intervene by reducing the fuel supply and slightly braking the appropriate wheel(s).
This is my understanding, and I'm no expert. Also, I suspect that Mitsu will be keeping traction control as standard equipment since it's basically the opposite of ABS and relatively inexpensive. Usually, manufacturers allow you to turn off the traction and stability control via a dash mounted switch.
Complaint? CVT, to the reviewer(s) here, is not an exciting tranny-not their words, mine...maybe with 6 speed, or just get a manual shifter( unless, maybe they have he GTS with paddle shifters. Usually, when I read about reviews, it is usually the tp model GTS, with 6 speed paddle shifters. Must be a reason, as the reviewers usually like the GTS, but this review, well, kind of says what I said. And the saelsman told us it was most likely going to be their "big seller" of the 3 models, DE, ES, GTS). The GTS, as they mention on last page, gets a sportier suspension, brakes,6 speed paddle shifter,etc. This stuff must help alot! The CVT I drove was not fun.Sorry folks. Not trying to be nasty, just was a let down, since I was thisclose to a purchase, until we drove it a few weeks back. take care/not offense.
Yea, sounds like the CVT is good for fuel economy but not so good for speed. I guess with the global warming nuts in charge we'll be seeing a lot more performance killing equipment on cars in the future.
2019 Kia Soul+, 2015 Mustang GT, 2013 Ford F-150, 2000 Chrysler Sebring convertible
cause the Lancer commercial with the two guys on the cloverleaf has a voiceover mentioning the magnesium paddle shifters and they must have amplified the sound of the engine, the shifts sound crisp and concise.
Yep. Like I mentioned before, almost all reviews( and now commercials?) show the top model, with 6 speed shifter. They do not seem to like to mention the CVT in the ES(for- now- obvious reasons). It was not horrible, but it was more like a family sedan( Elantra, Corolla, etc...)than a sporty small car in the ES/CVT gear. A shame, really.
Here's hoping the next gen tC or FUSE, whatever, does not lose 1-2 seconds to 60. 8.2-8.4 for automatic is just fine, as is the 32-34MPG we get.
Slow sporty cars(to me, about anything over 8.5 seconds these days, or maybe 9, tops, to 60). Does not quite sound right, does it? take care/not offense.
A bit more good news for Mitsu. The article is brief and mentions that Mitsu (in the US) will increase the advertising budget due to a modest increase in profit.
I just read on Edmunds about What's new on the Eclipse for 2008. Are the 08's at the dealers yet? Seems kinda early.
I notice that they are making the 18" wheels standard on the GT for 2008. Yes! That was the one thing holding me back from considering one. This might be the year.
Edmunds also mentioned something about an SE option which has appearance enhancements. Any one know what this is? Even the Mitsu site doesn't have any info.
2019 Kia Soul+, 2015 Mustang GT, 2013 Ford F-150, 2000 Chrysler Sebring convertible
Under the "Limited Editions" section of the Mitsu website, there's a blurb about the 07 Eclipse SE, but there are no details about what it includes. And, as you indicated, there is no info about the 08 SE at their site. Maybe standard fog lights on the GS and that aluminum fuel door on both the GS and GT (along with the SE badge) as far as the exterior? Here's the link:
Further research got me some more info on the 2008 SE option. From what I gather it will be a limited production super loaded Eclipse. You have to order the Premium Sports Package before you can order the SE package.
The SE package includes things like a big rear spoiler (ugly in my opinion), anti skid control and some checkered paint accents on the rear quarter. I also saw a picture where the front seats were a red and black combo.
Seems to be mainly cosmetic stuff with the exception of the anti skid control (traction control).
My one big gripe about Mitsu is the packaging of one good item with a bunch of less desirable stuff. I mean, why should you have to buy $5000 worth of options to get the one or two you want?
In my case, I put off buying an Eclipse for two years because you couldn't get the 18" wheels without the Premium Sports package. I actually liked most of the stuff in that package but the sunroof lowered the headroom to where I couldn't fit in the car. So, no sunroof, no Premium Sport package; no Premium Sport package, no 18" wheels; no 18" wheels, no sale.
As to the Altima Coupe I had not even heard about that until yesterday. Sounds like it could be a good car. My brother-in-law owns a 2003 Altima sedan and he likes it. It is a fast car, that 3.5 motor is nice. Tons of torque steer (the worst in the business). The only complaint he has is the fit and finish stuff. I guess Nissans tend to have bits and pieces fall off.
Optimist Green Pearl doesn't do much for me. I guess I'd have to see it in real life. I'm not in love with any of the color choices for the Eclipse. I think Lancer has better color choices.
2019 Kia Soul+, 2015 Mustang GT, 2013 Ford F-150, 2000 Chrysler Sebring convertible
Just read the Edmunds review of the Altima coupe. They seem to like it.
Seems to be equal or slightly better in most areas than the Eclipse. 270hp vs. 263hp, 258 torque vs. 260. Altima is slightly faster 0-60, 6.2 vs.6.6 (though I've seen other reviews which have the Eclipse as fast as 5.8 0-60.)
The one area which Edmunds tests shows a clear advantage for the Altima is the slalom. 68.6 mph vs. 64.9 for the Eclipse. I wonder if this is a correct figure because on the specs. page of the same review it says the slalom speed was 66.8 not 68.8. Either way that is nice handling. I wonder how they do it with 67% front weight bias (they say the Eclipse is nose heavy at 62%) and skinnier tires.
The Altima is about $1000 more than the Eclipse through out the price range. Nissan is even worse than Mitsu in bundling good options with junk.
All in all it looks like Eclipse has a run for the money with this one.
2019 Kia Soul+, 2015 Mustang GT, 2013 Ford F-150, 2000 Chrysler Sebring convertible
Looks like the two have the same suspension setup, so the better handling of the Altima Coupe (vs Eclipse) might be due to better suspension tweaking by Nissan. I don't know, I'm just guessing.
I, too, have seen Eclipse 0-60 numbers in the high 5's. Maybe outside temp/humidity/elevation have something to do with the differences?
So, would you consider buying the Altima Coupe? What do you think about the exterior styling?
Yep, I've read the same about the less than average interior quality/durability of the Nissan Altimas and Sentras. I think the Maxima was spared though. Oh yeah, the 350 doesn't have a glovebox! Can you believe that?!
Back to the Eclipse, too bad you can't get the exact contents that you want. Also, I went back to the Mitsu website after you reported finding more info, and "amazingly" they updated it to include the contents of the SE package. Is someone out there watching:-)
I don't know who was watching Edmunds or other automotive websites in regards to our upcoming Lancer "needs" but I do know that Mitsu has fully delivered the goods with my '08 Lancer GTS.
I am really surprised how inconsequential it has been changing from my favorite 5-speed manual tranny's(the '99 Sephia and '01 Sportage 4x4 from Kia were both 5-speed manuals)to the Lancer GTS' CVT automatic. I played with the 6 forward gear CVT automatic mode this morning and found it to be very responsive and fun to operate.
Most of the time I spend in the 'D' mode but I like the option of switching over now and a then, ya know?
I give this new '08 Lancer GTS an 'A' grade. It's gonna be fun to watch the new EVO-X when it hits the streets.
"...would you consider buying the Altima coupe..."
Yea, I guess I would. With it's reported superior handling I'd have to give it some consideration.
"...What do you think about exterior styling?..."
From what I see it looks real sharp. Kinda like a cross between a 350Z and a G35. That said, I think the Eclipse still has the edge in styling.
Speaking of outside influences effecting performance, I just read a Car and Driver long term report on the Eclipse. It said that after 40,000 miles the Eclipse handled BETTER and was slightly FASTER than when it was brand new. Gotta love that.
2019 Kia Soul+, 2015 Mustang GT, 2013 Ford F-150, 2000 Chrysler Sebring convertible
that's interesting(about the Eclipse handling better and driving faster at 40,000 miles than when new) because I keep having co-workers telling me they love my '08 Lancer GTS and, get this, they keep saying that "that thing will run forever".
I say, "oh, yeah, you mean the car...or the engine?"
"Both!" is the exclamation.
I've got to admit the car is pinned together solidly. This is my first Japanese car and this car is built very well.
This car is a four-door but is the sportiest looking four-door sedan I've seen, anytime or anywhere.
I think Mitsu has been making a real effort to keep the quality of it's cars high. Consumer Reports said that for 2006 their cars were above average in reliability.
That Car and Driver story I mentioned also said their Eclipse needed no repairs outside of normal maintaince in over 40K miles. Zero. That's the kind of quality I like. Lancer should be just as good. I guess when a company is struggling they can either give up and push a lot of junk out the door before they fold, or they can go for superior quality and try to turn things around. Nice to see Mitsu taking the latter approach.
Now why can't they give the Eclipse the cool color choices like the Lancer has? I forget what color your car is but I'm sure it looks cool. I really like that dark red I see in the commercials.
2019 Kia Soul+, 2015 Mustang GT, 2013 Ford F-150, 2000 Chrysler Sebring convertible
Consumer Reports is a very interesting publication. They seem to enjoy bashing the Mitsu cars, but then turn around and "recommend" a good number of them. It's almost like they hate to give Mitsu any credit when it comes to quality, but what actual customers report about their vehicles makes them fes up. I think their review of the Eclipse would had been much different had they ordered the GT.
Was the Car and Driver article titled: If Not Love, Respect (or something like that)?
Ok gang, So what are the best colors for the Lancer and the Eclipse? I like the Lancer in that graphite gray and the Eclipse in sunset pearlescent.
my '08 Lancer GTS is painted in Rally Red. My top three '08 Lancer colors that I had to have were Rally Red, Electric Blue or Apex Silver. I'm not sure Mitsu calls the blue "Electric Blue" or the silver "Apex Silver" but those are the three finalists for iluvmysephia1's '08 Lancer.
Blue or Red were my most serious top two choices but the pictures I saw on the net of '08 silver Lancer's looked cool. The silver gave the car a forged, bold and menacing look with that Sabre Jet aggressive looking front end.
As for the new Eclipse, IIRC this new body re-design the '07 Eclipse has came out in 2006 and the color of the concept car was a pretty cool looking metallic orange color. I like it, do you guys too?
I drive like someone twice my age so passing on the freeway is rarely needed. However, an occasion did come up about a week ago on a southern Arizona highway. We took a drive up to Globe, AZ, and Lake Roosevelt near Globe and someone was going too slow on the highway back to Safford and eventually Willcox.
I needed to punch and pass on the two-lane highway and the necessary speed to pass was reached quickly and without trouble. So I give it a passing grade in that category but that is one of the categories that people really make their own judgement on I've noticed. Worked well for me and I will continue to analyze that as my Lancer GTS driving experience continues.
"...OK gang, So what are the best colors for the Lancer and the Eclipse?..."
As I said, I'm not crazy about any of the Eclipse colors. That sunset Pearlesent looks nice on a sunny day but it shows as copper when cloudy. I see one parked at the mall every week and I like it on sunny days but not on cloudy ones. I guess I would have to go with the Red Pearl although I would like a darker red with metallic flecks. The blue would be second. My least favorite, Silver (looks unpainted)
For the Lancer, the color that caught my eye was the dark red. I think Iluvmysephia1 called it rally red. I think that would look good on the Eclipse too.
2019 Kia Soul+, 2015 Mustang GT, 2013 Ford F-150, 2000 Chrysler Sebring convertible
"...So what's this car like passing on the freeway..."
I don't know about the Lancer but it's light enough that it should have some kick at those speeds.
As for the Eclipse I haven't seen any reports at those speeds (funny huh?) but they say it has excellent torque over a wide rpm range, so I have to think it would be quick 50-80. I remember one review I read saying it has enough torque to skip every other gear. Remember this is a car that does 134mph @4500rpm.
2019 Kia Soul+, 2015 Mustang GT, 2013 Ford F-150, 2000 Chrysler Sebring convertible
Mitsubishi Lancer GTS shows as a fire engine red in bright sun and turns darker if clouds are blocking the sun. It is a nice metallic shade and was and still is my top choice for the Lancer for 2008.
A guy here in Willcox has an older Lancer that is painted yellow(not mustardy yellow...yuk!...sunny yellow) and it has yellow and black mixed accordingly for the interior. It's sort of blocked out in black and yellow inside and really doesn't look too bad. That's a custom paint job though.You won't find that choice available straight from the factory.
shopping again and averaged 30.5mpg for the trip. This mpg-avg-ahh-meter is so easy and fun to use that I haven't checked the Lancer's mpg the accurate old-fashioned way yet. I do intend to-curiosity is going to make me have to here pretty soon!
Another opportunity to punch it and pass several trucks towing several more trucks(three sets on Hwy 191 heading back to I-10)came up for us last night. Again, the '08 Lancer GTS w/CVT moved up and out for the pass very comfortably. Love this new '08 Lancer GTS-she needs a decent bath today for sure, though!
We have around 2,650 miles on the Lancer and so a Lube-Oil-Filter will be coming up. I believe my Lancer manual says 5,500 miles or 7,500 miles will be fine for the first oil change but I'm not waiting till then. It will be much more closer to 3,000 or 3,250 for the first L-O-F.
IMO, Rally Red was a fine choice. It has a deep/rich look to it. Didn't get a chance to take a test drive. My scheduled filled up much more than I anticipated. I think I've seen a couple of Lancers in my area in that bright yellow. I think it's a great color for the Evo, but not so good for the naturally aspirated ones. Are you gonna take your Lancer to the dealer for the LOF? Will you have the tires rotated as well?
yes, I'll be taking our Lancer to the dealer for the Lube-Oil-Filter. We signed on for the first three years of oil changes, tune-ups and tire rotations, even auto tranny tune-ups, etc., fully covered for the first three years of ownership. I believe my Mitsu service manual says 7,500 for the first tire rotation so I may pass on that for this service visit but use our service program for that next oil change.
Of course, we had to pay for it. It added $15/month to our payment. Sorry, I don't know how much it would cost to pay cash for this program for three years of maintenance.
It was bundled with activating the alarm/theft package we already had installed in our Lancer GTS from the factory. So, activating the anti-theft alarm system and getting the first three years of mainenance added $15/month to our payment and made decent sense to us, so we went for it.
I have my choice of Ideal Mitsubishi in a small town 90 miles west of our town(that we like to go shopping at)or Wildcat Mitsubishi in Tucson. Funny thing is is Wildcat Mitsubishi in Tucson is actually located about 80 miles away from us so it would be the closer drive. We'll probably choose Ideal Mitsubishi and walk to nearby shopping while waiting for the service to be done.
I washed the Lancer GTS a couple of hours ago, the timing was right, the hot Arizona sun was just starting to go down when I got out there. I use a Turtle Wax product that is a washmitt with soap built in to it. No bucket required!
I did the required bug-washing repetitions in the menacing Lancer front end. I must've covered the front end about 4 or 5 times to get all the tough bug guts wiped off. I didn't have time to wipe it off with a towel because of darkness but in the dry Arizona air it starts drying almost right away.
I can't wait to look at her in the morning! Whoo-hoo! That Rally Red is my personal '08 Lancer favorite color, boys!
"...So, activating the anti-theft alarm...added $15/month to our payments..."
You had to pay to get the alarm activated? That sounds harsh. Isn't the alarm already installed when you buy the car? Why would you have to pay extra to get it turned on? I know you said that this was bundled with an oil change package but what would happen if you turned this package down, no alarm?
That brings to mind another question. Posters on several different forums have had nasty comments about Mitsu DEALERS. Sometimes I read snide comments about sales tactics other times about poor service. The general tone is that the dealers are not to be trusted. Any truth to this?
Or is this just sour grapes?
2019 Kia Soul+, 2015 Mustang GT, 2013 Ford F-150, 2000 Chrysler Sebring convertible
Just sour grapes I think...you can't generalize. The Mitsu dealer in San Rafael California for instance, is outstanding IMO and has the awards to prove it.
A dealer is only as good or bad as its management. It has little to do with the product, although a bad product certainly hampers a good dealer.
But Mitsubishi cars, especially since the Chrysler divorce, are performing very well on the road and get better ratings all the time. Mitsu's main weakness isn't service or reliability at all---it's product diversity IMO.
no, I asked the finance manager about the anti-theft alarm and that is how they do it. You can pay them a said amount to activate it or finance it in...with our dealer the deal is packaged with the first three years of maintenance. But I asked and that is the way it works...the alarm is installed but not activated yet. I don't know if it needs a few more parts put on or if it's just a wiring hook-up but our dealer subs out that work to someone else.
We ended up going to Tucson Dodge(affiliated with our Mitsubishi dealer, Avondale Mitsubishi)to get the alarm activated. I mean, we weren't going to have this alarm on the car and not have it work and didn't ask what a particular cash price might have been for it, didn't really wanna head that direction.
Figuring it up now I feel we made the right decision to buy the program we bought. Now, if it would have added $50 more to the payment or something like that a cash deal would have been made. But this includes the first 3 years of LOF's, tune-ups, tire rotations, etc. so to me that makes enough sense to go wid it.
As for our dealer I initially was irritated when the guy on the phone had said that they have a 2008 Mitsubishi Lancer GTS with a 5-speed manual tranny in stock, come on up. When we got there the sales manager says they have a CVT automatic but no 5-speed manual. Well, my last two rigs were 5-speed Kia's and I wanted a 5-speed. I said some irritated comments and they looked for any available 5-speeds they could track down for us. None.
So here's this beautiful CVT automatic '08 Lancer GTS in Rally Red in their showroom. I had been researching this car for literally hundreds of hours. I knew it pretty much inside and out. But seeing it for the first time in person did the trick. I knew I could go somewhere else for a 5-speed but paddle shifters were fun to operate and the test drive showed me a solid sedan with good pickup and nice steering and handling capabilities.
My wife doesn't drive but if she were to want to start a 5-speed manual wouldn't cut it so she was really on board for getting this CVT automatic '08 Lancer GTS. It had a sunroof and 650-watt Rockford Fosgate 6-CD stereo and a prepaid 6-month Sirius radio subscription(the Sun and Sound package)and that Rally Red metallic paint job was gleaming so nicely. Some interference was possible from my wife if I held out for the 5-speed Lancer. Another dealer I was in contact with in Tucson had a blue one in 5-speeds and a white 5-speed was available elsewhere in the Phoenix area. Nope, we decided this was our car.
This whole deal ended up taking around 5 hours to complete and because it was for this car I was stoked the whole time. It was not a bitter, hard-fought white knuckle affair that had everyone angry and uptight. I had my car and we found the drive back enlightening learning the new dash and interior appointments in the dark...it was 10:00PM.
The 200 mile drive back to Willcox in SE Arizona proved to be too much after the buying experience and we found a hotel in Tucson on the cruise back.
A few posts back mikevagas asked my take on the Altima coupe. It sounded like a good car that matched the Eclipse in most areas with the exception of the slalom where it trounced the Eclipse 68.8mph vs. 64.9 mph. I questioned the figures because later in the article a different figure was given.
Well it is now official. The Edmunds editor who wrote the article told me that the actual figure is 66.8 mph (the higher figure was a typo).
This makes it harder to favor the Altima over the Eclipse. The editor even said that the Altima has the same understeer issues which the enthusiasts bash the Eclipse with.
So the bottom line here is: the Altima is a little bit faster, handles a little bit better but is a little bit more expensive than the Eclipse. Personally, I don't think the differences are worth a $1000. (can you tell a few tenths difference in 0-60?)
2019 Kia Soul+, 2015 Mustang GT, 2013 Ford F-150, 2000 Chrysler Sebring convertible
I checked out a Lancer GTS while we were picking up our Outlander. Very cool car, this one was blue but I'll bet it is sharp in Red. Our Outlander has the Sun and Sound, the stereo sounds great.
2012 Mustang Premium, 2013 Lincoln MKX Elite, 2007 Mitsubishi Outlander.
it sounds like you got a very cool SUV in the new Mitsubishi Outlander, Mitsu did a fine job with it. I think if we were going to get a SUV the Outlander would no doubt be our choice.
The Sun and Sound is great and that stereo rocks so nicely! I have noticed that everything works first time every time in the cabin, as far as heating/cooling/stereo/mirrors inside and outside. Intuitive controls that work logically and don't confuse the driver but give the driver confidence and enhance their driving experience.
Yes, blue was my 2nd choice for the Lancer and I likely would have bought one in blue if the opportunity had lined up right.
Yeah, I'm on board with you. About product diversity, I wonder why Mitsu (the US arm) can't make a business case to have the Delica (mini mini van) and Triton (sport pick up) imported here. Do you think it is emissions issues?
I'm cool with the Endeavor, but it needs to be dropped. It's done fine in comparison tests but it's never been advertised enough. Basically, the current Outlander trumps it. So why not start importing the Montero again along with the Outlander? I know the Normal plant is under utilized, but with a more diversified lineup, maybe those guys would be able to have the freedom (and cash) to start making more extreme editions of the Eclipse and the Galant.
Oldfarmer, thanks for the diligence! On paper, it looks like it'll all come down to personal preference. With the performance numbers so close, Mitsu will be sure to make that price difference a little larger when it comes to negotiation time.
I don't drive at 9/10ths. Maybe 7/10ths -- when I'm in the car by myself and I see an S-curve or an exit ramp. So, for me, the performance data have less impact in this case.
Until I see the Nissan coupe, in real time, I can't make a true call on its appearance. From the pics, it looks a bit boring to me. But that may change once I really see it. The Eclipse looks sexy (if I can use that to describe a car) on paper and in real life.
It appears as though this is gonna make for a great comparison. So, you just might be visiting you local Nissan dealership in the upcoming months to do some tire kicking?
Yea, Mike. I'd have to kick some tires before I buy just so I don't end up kicking myself later.
I thought I had it down to a choice between the Eclipse GT and the Mustang GT. The Mustang turned out to be a little too pricey for my budget and it was popular enough that they wouldn't give any great deals.
Then the Pontiac G6 coupe came out with that 3.6L 252hp engine and I thought I might want to look at that one too.
Now you have me looking at the Altima coupe...So many choices so little money...sigh. :sick:
2019 Kia Soul+, 2015 Mustang GT, 2013 Ford F-150, 2000 Chrysler Sebring convertible
I saw one new Mitsu pickup at the dealer. I think it's a rebadged Dakota? Sure looked like a new Dakota. I know those old Montero's were some rugged beasts. They can't be good on gas,though,and I don't know how good the truck-based SUV's are selling nowadays.
2012 Mustang Premium, 2013 Lincoln MKX Elite, 2007 Mitsubishi Outlander.
Doesn't appear that it sold like Mitsu had hoped. Oddly, from the professional reviews that I read, it was preferred over the Dakota.
Also, Mitsu entered and won a Baja race with it! I think that speaks volumes about the ability of Mitsu's engineering team.
I'm surprised that it didn't do that well in sales. It looks good and it's based on the what our domestic manufactures do well -- pickups. I guess it was lack of advertising funds. Any thoughts?
Mitsu only seems to have enough money to promote one vehicle at a time. I don't ever recall seeing any pick up ads. I do remember the automotive press turning their collective noses up and dismissing the Mitsu pick up as a "rebadged Dakota".
On more positive news I caught some crash test report on the news today and they placed the Eclipse convertible high on the list of good cars. Better than BMW.
I guess all that extra weight goes for safety.
2019 Kia Soul+, 2015 Mustang GT, 2013 Ford F-150, 2000 Chrysler Sebring convertible
The G6 has some positive things going for it. They have a much smoother running 3.6L V6 in the GTP trim. It has a longer wheel base than most other coupes in the class (112" if IIRC) vs. 101" in the Eclipse. That means a useable back seat. It handles pretty well as I recall although it has the same torque steer and understeer issues as all the front drive coupes.
This may sound strange, but I think I like the looks of the sedan G6 better than the coupe. The coupe looks a little stretched out.
2019 Kia Soul+, 2015 Mustang GT, 2013 Ford F-150, 2000 Chrysler Sebring convertible
Wow, that is a rather long wheelbase for a coupe. Not that these cars are in the same league, but a Porsche Turbo has wheelbase of approximately 94" while the Audi R8 is around 106. The tires must be at the extreme corners. I wonder if that makes it look a little dumpy (is that a word?) in the middle. If the sedan has the same or similar wheelbase, then I can understand why the proportions are better.
Please tell me that thing has a 5 speed automatic and not a 4 speed.
I know I'm late, but did anyone do anything fun and car related over the Memorial Day weekend? I washed and waxed our cars. I enjoy cleaning our vehicles. It gives me a chance to appreciate the angles/curves/textures of the machine. (I'm ready for the jokes ).
and have since needed to touch it up a tad. I'm using a Turtle Wax mitt that includes soap. Works fairly well however I wouldn't call it the end-all in car washing supplies.
Took my wife to Sky Harbor Int. Airport in Phoenix yesterday to meet up with our son(flying in from Seattle) and the two of them flew to San Diego for a wedding. I would go too 'cept I start my "6 days in a row" work deal tomorrow and couldn't get the time off. That is one busy airport and that is one large city that continues to grow constantly. I went up to the top of the parking garage(9th story)to watch their plane take off and that expensive jet fuel was almost making me sick wafting up there from far down below.
The '08 Mitsubishi Lancer GTS w/CVT automatic of ours did well in the gas mileage dept. getting 32 miles per gallon. That is very acceptable mpg performance to me for the handsome Lancer. I did go over the 3,000 mile mark on that trip to Phoenix so next time off from work, perhaps next Friday, we'll take the Lancer to Sierra Vista and Ideal Mitsubishi for it's first L-O-F.
I'll be flying into Phoenix a week from Monday. The family and I will be staying in Sedona, doing some hiking, seeing the Grand Canyon, etc. I'm renting a Ford Fusion. I was actually considering buying one to replace my T-Bird, till we went in another direction and replaced her minivan with the Outlander.
2012 Mustang Premium, 2013 Lincoln MKX Elite, 2007 Mitsubishi Outlander.
what color is your Outlander? I saw on another Edmunds thread some dudes with new Outlanders in that Pearl White glaze or something or other...looked sweet. That is the SUV I would buy if I went back to SUV'-ing.
I really think highly of Mitsubishi with this new Lancer GTS. What a cool car, man. Enjoy the Canyon..my wife and I have been living in AZ for 10 months now and haven't seen the Grand Canyon yet. I found out today I've got 4 personal days accrued to take when I want. I want to step out on to that weird clear rim they built on the Canyon. Too cool.
Comments
This RF 650-watt stereo is plenty powerful...I wouldn't even think of needing to upgrade this stereo.
2021 Kia Soul LX 6-speed stick
I do have a clue about traction and stability control. Traction control keeps your tires from spinning on slippery surfaces by reducing fuel flow and/or pumping the brakes. Typically ABS and traction control use the same sensors.
Stability control is more concerned with keeping your vehicle on the intended path. If the computer senses (based on throttle opening, vehicle speed, steering wheel angle, etc.) that you are about to be out of control as you blast down the exit ramp, then it will intervene by reducing the fuel supply and slightly braking the appropriate wheel(s).
This is my understanding, and I'm no expert. Also, I suspect that Mitsu will be keeping traction control as standard equipment since it's basically the opposite of ABS and relatively inexpensive. Usually, manufacturers allow you to turn off the traction and stability control via a dash mounted switch.
Complaint? CVT, to the reviewer(s) here, is not an exciting tranny-not their words, mine...maybe with 6 speed, or just get a manual shifter( unless, maybe they have he GTS with paddle shifters. Usually, when I read about reviews, it is usually the tp model GTS, with 6 speed paddle shifters. Must be a reason, as the reviewers usually like the GTS, but this review, well, kind of says what I said. And the saelsman told us it was most likely going to be their "big seller" of the 3 models, DE, ES, GTS).
The GTS, as they mention on last page, gets a sportier suspension, brakes,6 speed paddle shifter,etc.
This stuff must help alot!
The CVT I drove was not fun.Sorry folks. Not trying to be nasty, just was a let down, since I was thisclose to a purchase, until we drove it a few weeks back.
take care/not offense.
2019 Kia Soul+, 2015 Mustang GT, 2013 Ford F-150, 2000 Chrysler Sebring convertible
No fun huh? Too bad.
They do not seem to like to mention the CVT in the ES(for- now- obvious reasons).
It was not horrible, but it was more like a family sedan( Elantra, Corolla, etc...)than a sporty small car in the ES/CVT gear. A shame, really.
Here's hoping the next gen tC or FUSE, whatever, does not lose 1-2 seconds to 60. 8.2-8.4 for automatic is just fine, as is the 32-34MPG we get.
Slow sporty cars(to me, about anything over 8.5 seconds these days, or maybe 9, tops, to 60). Does not quite sound right, does it?
take care/not offense.
http://www.theautochannel.com/news/2007/05/14/047757.html
I notice that they are making the 18" wheels standard on the GT for 2008. Yes! That was the one thing holding me back from considering one. This might be the year.
Edmunds also mentioned something about an SE option which has appearance enhancements. Any one know what this is? Even the Mitsu site doesn't have any info.
2019 Kia Soul+, 2015 Mustang GT, 2013 Ford F-150, 2000 Chrysler Sebring convertible
http://www.mitsubishicars.com/MMNA/jsp/limitedEditions.do?loc=en-us
What do you think about that new color, "Optimist Green Pearl?"
The new Altima Coupe bows soon. How do you think it will stack up against the Eclipse GT?
The SE package includes things like a big rear spoiler (ugly in my opinion), anti skid control and some checkered paint accents on the rear quarter. I also saw a picture where the front seats were a red and black combo.
Seems to be mainly cosmetic stuff with the exception of the anti skid control (traction control).
My one big gripe about Mitsu is the packaging of one good item with a bunch of less desirable stuff. I mean, why should you have to buy $5000 worth of options to get the one or two you want?
In my case, I put off buying an Eclipse for two years because you couldn't get the 18" wheels without the Premium Sports package. I actually liked most of the stuff in that package but the sunroof lowered the headroom to where I couldn't fit in the car. So, no sunroof, no Premium Sport package; no Premium Sport package, no 18" wheels; no 18" wheels, no sale.
As to the Altima Coupe I had not even heard about that until yesterday. Sounds like it could be a good car. My brother-in-law owns a 2003 Altima sedan and he likes it. It is a fast car, that 3.5 motor is nice. Tons of torque steer (the worst in the business). The only complaint he has is the fit and finish stuff. I guess Nissans tend to have bits and pieces fall off.
Optimist Green Pearl doesn't do much for me. I guess I'd have to see it in real life. I'm not in love with any of the color choices for the Eclipse. I think Lancer has better color choices.
2019 Kia Soul+, 2015 Mustang GT, 2013 Ford F-150, 2000 Chrysler Sebring convertible
Seems to be equal or slightly better in most areas than the Eclipse. 270hp vs. 263hp, 258 torque vs. 260. Altima is slightly faster 0-60, 6.2 vs.6.6 (though I've seen other reviews which have the Eclipse as fast as 5.8 0-60.)
The one area which Edmunds tests shows a clear advantage for the Altima is the slalom. 68.6 mph vs. 64.9 for the Eclipse. I wonder if this is a correct figure because on the specs. page of the same review it says the slalom speed was 66.8 not 68.8. Either way that is nice handling. I wonder how they do it with 67% front weight bias (they say the Eclipse is nose heavy at 62%) and skinnier tires.
The Altima is about $1000 more than the Eclipse through out the price range. Nissan is even worse than Mitsu in bundling good options with junk.
All in all it looks like Eclipse has a run for the money with this one.
2019 Kia Soul+, 2015 Mustang GT, 2013 Ford F-150, 2000 Chrysler Sebring convertible
I, too, have seen Eclipse 0-60 numbers in the high 5's. Maybe outside temp/humidity/elevation have something to do with the differences?
So, would you consider buying the Altima Coupe? What do you think about the exterior styling?
Yep, I've read the same about the less than average interior quality/durability of the Nissan Altimas and Sentras. I think the Maxima was spared though. Oh yeah, the 350 doesn't have a glovebox! Can you believe that?!
Back to the Eclipse, too bad you can't get the exact contents that you want. Also, I went back to the Mitsu website after you reported finding more info, and "amazingly" they updated it to include the contents of the SE package. Is someone out there watching:-)
I don't know who was watching Edmunds or other automotive websites in regards to our upcoming Lancer "needs" but I do know that Mitsu has fully delivered the goods with my '08 Lancer GTS.
I am really surprised how inconsequential it has been changing from my favorite 5-speed manual tranny's(the '99 Sephia and '01 Sportage 4x4 from Kia were both 5-speed manuals)to the Lancer GTS' CVT automatic. I played with the 6 forward gear CVT automatic mode this morning and found it to be very responsive and fun to operate.
Most of the time I spend in the 'D' mode but I like the option of switching over now and a then, ya know?
I give this new '08 Lancer GTS an 'A' grade. It's gonna be fun to watch the new EVO-X when it hits the streets.
2021 Kia Soul LX 6-speed stick
Yea, I guess I would. With it's reported superior handling I'd have to give it some consideration.
"...What do you think about exterior styling?..."
From what I see it looks real sharp. Kinda like a cross between a 350Z and a G35. That said, I think the Eclipse still has the edge in styling.
Speaking of outside influences effecting performance, I just read a Car and Driver long term report on the Eclipse. It said that after 40,000 miles the Eclipse handled BETTER and was slightly FASTER than when it was brand new. Gotta love that.
2019 Kia Soul+, 2015 Mustang GT, 2013 Ford F-150, 2000 Chrysler Sebring convertible
I say, "oh, yeah, you mean the car...or the engine?"
"Both!" is the exclamation.
I've got to admit the car is pinned together solidly. This is my first Japanese car and this car is built very well.
This car is a four-door but is the sportiest looking four-door sedan I've seen, anytime or anywhere.
Simply smashing!
2021 Kia Soul LX 6-speed stick
That Car and Driver story I mentioned also said their Eclipse needed no repairs outside of normal maintaince in over 40K miles. Zero. That's the kind of quality I like.
Lancer should be just as good. I guess when a company is struggling they can either give up and push a lot of junk out the door before they fold, or they can go for superior quality and try to turn things around. Nice to see Mitsu taking the latter approach.
Now why can't they give the Eclipse the cool color choices like the Lancer has? I forget what color your car is but I'm sure it looks cool. I really like that dark red I see in the commercials.
2019 Kia Soul+, 2015 Mustang GT, 2013 Ford F-150, 2000 Chrysler Sebring convertible
Was the Car and Driver article titled: If Not Love, Respect (or something like that)?
Ok gang, So what are the best colors for the Lancer and the Eclipse? I like the Lancer in that graphite gray and the Eclipse in sunset pearlescent.
Blue or Red were my most serious top two choices but the pictures I saw on the net of '08 silver Lancer's looked cool. The silver gave the car a forged, bold and menacing look with that Sabre Jet aggressive looking front end.
As for the new Eclipse, IIRC this new body re-design the '07 Eclipse has came out in 2006 and the color of the concept car was a pretty cool looking metallic orange color. I like it, do you guys too?
2021 Kia Soul LX 6-speed stick
I needed to punch and pass on the two-lane highway and the necessary speed to pass was reached quickly and without trouble. So I give it a passing grade in that category but that is one of the categories that people really make their own judgement on I've noticed. Worked well for me and I will continue to analyze that as my Lancer GTS driving experience continues.
2021 Kia Soul LX 6-speed stick
As I said, I'm not crazy about any of the Eclipse colors. That sunset Pearlesent looks nice on a sunny day but it shows as copper when cloudy. I see one parked at the mall every week and I like it on sunny days but not on cloudy ones. I guess I would have to go with the Red Pearl although I would like a darker red with metallic flecks. The blue would be second. My least favorite, Silver (looks unpainted)
For the Lancer, the color that caught my eye was the dark red. I think Iluvmysephia1 called it rally red. I think that would look good on the Eclipse too.
2019 Kia Soul+, 2015 Mustang GT, 2013 Ford F-150, 2000 Chrysler Sebring convertible
I don't know about the Lancer but it's light enough that it should have some kick at those speeds.
As for the Eclipse I haven't seen any reports at those speeds (funny huh?) but they say it has excellent torque over a wide rpm range, so I have to think it would be quick 50-80. I remember one review I read saying it has enough torque to skip every other gear. Remember this is a car that does 134mph @4500rpm.
2019 Kia Soul+, 2015 Mustang GT, 2013 Ford F-150, 2000 Chrysler Sebring convertible
A guy here in Willcox has an older Lancer that is painted yellow(not mustardy yellow...yuk!...sunny yellow) and it has yellow and black mixed accordingly for the interior. It's sort of blocked out in black and yellow inside and really doesn't look too bad. That's a custom paint job though.You won't find that choice available straight from the factory.
I love my Rally Red paint though!
2021 Kia Soul LX 6-speed stick
Another opportunity to punch it and pass several trucks towing several more trucks(three sets on Hwy 191 heading back to I-10)came up for us last night. Again, the '08 Lancer GTS w/CVT moved up and out for the pass very comfortably. Love this new '08 Lancer GTS-she needs a decent bath today for sure, though!
We have around 2,650 miles on the Lancer and so a Lube-Oil-Filter will be coming up. I believe my Lancer manual says 5,500 miles or 7,500 miles will be fine for the first oil change but I'm not waiting till then. It will be much more closer to 3,000 or 3,250 for the first L-O-F.
2021 Kia Soul LX 6-speed stick
Didn't get a chance to take a test drive. My scheduled filled up much more than I anticipated.
I think I've seen a couple of Lancers in my area in that bright yellow. I think it's a great color for the Evo, but not so good for the naturally aspirated ones.
Are you gonna take your Lancer to the dealer for the LOF? Will you have the tires rotated as well?
Of course, we had to pay for it. It added $15/month to our payment. Sorry, I don't know how much it would cost to pay cash for this program for three years of maintenance.
It was bundled with activating the alarm/theft package we already had installed in our Lancer GTS from the factory. So, activating the anti-theft alarm system and getting the first three years of mainenance added $15/month to our payment and made decent sense to us, so we went for it.
I have my choice of Ideal Mitsubishi in a small town 90 miles west of our town(that we like to go shopping at)or Wildcat Mitsubishi in Tucson. Funny thing is is Wildcat Mitsubishi in Tucson is actually located about 80 miles away from us so it would be the closer drive. We'll probably choose Ideal Mitsubishi and walk to nearby shopping while waiting for the service to be done.
I washed the Lancer GTS a couple of hours ago, the timing was right, the hot Arizona sun was just starting to go down when I got out there. I use a Turtle Wax product that is a washmitt with soap built in to it. No bucket required!
I did the required bug-washing repetitions in the menacing Lancer front end. I must've covered the front end about 4 or 5 times to get all the tough bug guts wiped off. I didn't have time to wipe it off with a towel because of darkness but in the dry Arizona air it starts drying almost right away.
I can't wait to look at her in the morning! Whoo-hoo! That Rally Red is my personal '08 Lancer favorite color, boys!
2021 Kia Soul LX 6-speed stick
You had to pay to get the alarm activated? That sounds harsh. Isn't the alarm already installed when you buy the car? Why would you have to pay extra to get it turned on? I know you said that this was bundled with an oil change package but what would happen if you turned this package down, no alarm?
That brings to mind another question. Posters on several different forums have had nasty comments about Mitsu DEALERS. Sometimes I read snide comments about sales tactics other times about poor service. The general tone is that the dealers are not to be trusted. Any truth to this?
Or is this just sour grapes?
2019 Kia Soul+, 2015 Mustang GT, 2013 Ford F-150, 2000 Chrysler Sebring convertible
A dealer is only as good or bad as its management. It has little to do with the product, although a bad product certainly hampers a good dealer.
But Mitsubishi cars, especially since the Chrysler divorce, are performing very well on the road and get better ratings all the time. Mitsu's main weakness isn't service or reliability at all---it's product diversity IMO.
MrShiftright
Visiting Host
We ended up going to Tucson Dodge(affiliated with our Mitsubishi dealer, Avondale Mitsubishi)to get the alarm activated. I mean, we weren't going to have this alarm on the car and not have it work and didn't ask what a particular cash price might have been for it, didn't really wanna head that direction.
Figuring it up now I feel we made the right decision to buy the program we bought. Now, if it would have added $50 more to the payment or something like that a cash deal would have been made. But this includes the first 3 years of LOF's, tune-ups, tire rotations, etc. so to me that makes enough sense to go wid it.
As for our dealer I initially was irritated when the guy on the phone had said that they have a 2008 Mitsubishi Lancer GTS with a 5-speed manual tranny in stock, come on up. When we got there the sales manager says they have a CVT automatic but no 5-speed manual. Well, my last two rigs were 5-speed Kia's and I wanted a 5-speed. I said some irritated comments and they looked for any available 5-speeds they could track down for us. None.
So here's this beautiful CVT automatic '08 Lancer GTS in Rally Red in their showroom. I had been researching this car for literally hundreds of hours. I knew it pretty much inside and out. But seeing it for the first time in person did the trick. I knew I could go somewhere else for a 5-speed but paddle shifters were fun to operate and the test drive showed me a solid sedan with good pickup and nice steering and handling capabilities.
My wife doesn't drive but if she were to want to start a 5-speed manual wouldn't cut it so she was really on board for getting this CVT automatic '08 Lancer GTS. It had a sunroof and 650-watt Rockford Fosgate 6-CD stereo and a prepaid 6-month Sirius radio subscription(the Sun and Sound package)and that Rally Red metallic paint job was gleaming so nicely. Some interference was possible from my wife if I held out for the 5-speed Lancer. Another dealer I was in contact with in Tucson had a blue one in 5-speeds and a white 5-speed was available elsewhere in the Phoenix area. Nope, we decided this was our car.
This whole deal ended up taking around 5 hours to complete and because it was for this car I was stoked the whole time. It was not a bitter, hard-fought white knuckle affair that had everyone angry and uptight. I had my car and we found the drive back enlightening learning the new dash and interior appointments in the dark...it was 10:00PM.
The 200 mile drive back to Willcox in SE Arizona proved to be too much after the buying experience and we found a hotel in Tucson on the cruise back.
2021 Kia Soul LX 6-speed stick
Well it is now official. The Edmunds editor who wrote the article told me that the actual figure is 66.8 mph (the higher figure was a typo).
This makes it harder to favor the Altima over the Eclipse. The editor even said that the Altima has the same understeer issues which the enthusiasts bash the Eclipse with.
So the bottom line here is: the Altima is a little bit faster, handles a little bit better but is a little bit more expensive than the Eclipse. Personally, I don't think the differences are worth a $1000. (can you tell a few tenths difference in 0-60?)
2019 Kia Soul+, 2015 Mustang GT, 2013 Ford F-150, 2000 Chrysler Sebring convertible
The Sun and Sound is great and that stereo rocks so nicely! I have noticed that everything works first time every time in the cabin, as far as heating/cooling/stereo/mirrors inside and outside. Intuitive controls that work logically and don't confuse the driver but give the driver confidence and enhance their driving experience.
Yes, blue was my 2nd choice for the Lancer and I likely would have bought one in blue if the opportunity had lined up right.
2021 Kia Soul LX 6-speed stick
I'm cool with the Endeavor, but it needs to be dropped. It's done fine in comparison tests but it's never been advertised enough. Basically, the current Outlander trumps it. So why not start importing the Montero again along with the Outlander? I know the Normal plant is under utilized, but with a more diversified lineup, maybe those guys would be able to have the freedom (and cash) to start making more extreme editions of the Eclipse and the Galant.
I don't drive at 9/10ths. Maybe 7/10ths -- when I'm in the car by myself and I see an S-curve or an exit ramp. So, for me, the performance data have less impact in this case.
Until I see the Nissan coupe, in real time, I can't make a true call on its appearance. From the pics, it looks a bit boring to me. But that may change once I really see it. The Eclipse looks sexy (if I can use that to describe a car) on paper and in real life.
It appears as though this is gonna make for a great comparison. So, you just might be visiting you local Nissan dealership in the upcoming months to do some tire kicking?
I thought I had it down to a choice between the Eclipse GT and the Mustang GT. The Mustang turned out to be a little too pricey for my budget and it was popular enough that they wouldn't give any great deals.
Then the Pontiac G6 coupe came out with that 3.6L 252hp engine and I thought I might want to look at that one too.
Now you have me looking at the Altima coupe...So many choices so little money...sigh. :sick:
2019 Kia Soul+, 2015 Mustang GT, 2013 Ford F-150, 2000 Chrysler Sebring convertible
MrShiftright
Visiting Host
Also, Mitsu entered and won a Baja race with it! I think that speaks volumes about the ability of Mitsu's engineering team.
I'm surprised that it didn't do that well in sales. It looks good and it's based on the what our domestic manufactures do well -- pickups. I guess it was lack of advertising funds. Any thoughts?
Mitsu only seems to have enough money to promote one vehicle at a time. I don't ever recall seeing any pick up ads. I do remember the automotive press turning their collective noses up and dismissing the Mitsu pick up as a "rebadged Dakota".
On more positive news I caught some crash test report on the news today and they placed the Eclipse convertible high on the list of good cars. Better than BMW.
I guess all that extra weight goes for safety.
2019 Kia Soul+, 2015 Mustang GT, 2013 Ford F-150, 2000 Chrysler Sebring convertible
Ahh. So the "attainable exotic" is also very safe. Mitsu has to be sure to advertise the safety scores.
I couldn't believe how bad the G6 convetible did. Thing crumpled up like a tin can. Ouch.
The G6 has some positive things going for it. They have a much smoother running 3.6L V6 in the GTP trim. It has a longer wheel base than most other coupes in the class (112" if IIRC) vs. 101" in the Eclipse. That means a useable back seat. It handles pretty well as I recall although it has the same torque steer and understeer issues as all the front drive coupes.
This may sound strange, but I think I like the looks of the sedan G6 better than the coupe. The coupe looks a little stretched out.
2019 Kia Soul+, 2015 Mustang GT, 2013 Ford F-150, 2000 Chrysler Sebring convertible
Please tell me that thing has a 5 speed automatic and not a 4 speed.
I know I'm late, but did anyone do anything fun and car related over the Memorial Day weekend? I washed and waxed our cars. I enjoy cleaning our vehicles. It gives me a chance to appreciate the angles/curves/textures of the machine. (I'm ready for the jokes
Took my wife to Sky Harbor Int. Airport in Phoenix yesterday to meet up with our son(flying in from Seattle) and the two of them flew to San Diego for a wedding. I would go too 'cept I start my "6 days in a row" work deal tomorrow and couldn't get the time off. That is one busy airport and that is one large city that continues to grow constantly. I went up to the top of the parking garage(9th story)to watch their plane take off and that expensive jet fuel was almost making me sick wafting up there from far down below.
The '08 Mitsubishi Lancer GTS w/CVT automatic of ours did well in the gas mileage dept. getting 32 miles per gallon. That is very acceptable mpg performance to me for the handsome Lancer. I did go over the 3,000 mile mark on that trip to Phoenix so next time off from work, perhaps next Friday, we'll take the Lancer to Sierra Vista and Ideal Mitsubishi for it's first L-O-F.
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I really think highly of Mitsubishi with this new Lancer GTS. What a cool car, man. Enjoy the Canyon..my wife and I have been living in AZ for 10 months now and haven't seen the Grand Canyon yet. I found out today I've got 4 personal days accrued to take when I want. I want to step out on to that weird clear rim they built on the Canyon. Too cool.
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I visited Sedona a couple of years ago. Gorgeous country! In fact, my CarSpace picture was taken in Sedona. Definitely would want to go back again.
And now back to Mitsubishi News...
Mitsubishi Press Release