Still reeling from 2006’s redesign and a minor refresh last year, the 2010 Mitsubishi Eclipse is now being sold in 10 countries on three continents. The two-door, front-wheel-drive hatchback coupe comes in three trims - GS, GS Sport, and GT - powered by one of two engines. New for 2010 is the GS Sport trim, which takes the base GS trim and adds HID headlights, an upgraded 360-watt Rockford Fosgate stereo with CD changer and satellite radio, a sunroof, and 18-inch alloy wheels.

GS and GS Sport trims are powered by a 162-hp, 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine. While the GS comes with a five-speed manual transmission, the GS Sport gets a four-speed Sportronic shiftable automatic transmission. Regardless of transmission, the four-cylinder lacks power, especially in passing situations, but is adequate for running errands. The GT trim benefits from a 265-hp, 3.8-liter V6 that offers plenty of power in all situations. A six-speed manual transmission is standard with the GT, although a five-speed Sportronic is available. The GT also enjoys a stainless-steel exhaust system, anti-skid, traction control, foglights, 18-inch alloys, and a sport suspension to help apply all that extra power correctly.

That said, the GS trims are fairly well-equipped as well, with standard 17-inch alloys, power windows, mirrors, door locks, and keyless entry, air conditioning, cruise control, automatic-off headlights, and a theft-deterrent system. Standard safety features are impressive, with dual front, front-side, and curtain-side airbags, antilock four-wheel disc brakes, daytime running lights, and a tire pressure monitor.

The Eclipse has been noted throughout its model life as being quirky over uneven pavement, exhibiting skittish behavior on anything other than fresh, flat roads. The GT’s suspension helps, but not enough to impress or curb the issue. Sadly, the Eclipse is never as sporty as it pretends to be, although it still provides an enjoyable ride with plenty of grip. Watch for a surprisingly large turning diameter to really frustrate drivers while parking and u-turning, although the biggest issue may just be the noise that is evident from engine, tires, wind, and suspension, something Mitsubishi has had more than enough time to address.