Mitsubishi tweaks Eclipse for '09

The next-generation Mitsubishi Eclipse got a preview with the Concept-RA at the Detroit auto show. But the current Eclipse coupe and Spyder undergo a light makeover for the 2009 model year.The tweaked Eclipses get a public viewing at the Chicago auto show this week.A simplified lineup deletes SE models to leave only the GS and GT versions.All Eclipses get restyled front and rear bumpers, with the GT sporting a two-tone color scheme. Both models also get new cloth interior fabrics.The GT model adds a dual exhaust to bump output of the 3.8-liter V6 to 265 hp and 262 lb-ft of torque--up from 263 hp and 260 lb-ft. Stability control becomes standard to improve handling. Other changes include a larger rear spoiler and xenon headlights.The 2009 Eclipse is scheduled to hit showrooms in summer.

SHORT STINT--2009 Mitsubishi Lancer Ralliart
As-tested price: $29,915Drivetrain: 2.0-liter turbocharged I4; AWD, six-speed dual-clutch manualOutput: 237 hp @ 6,000 rpm, 253 lb-ft @ 3,000 rpmCurb weight: 3,462 lbFuel economy (EPA/AW): 20/20.3 mpgOptions: Recaro sport package, including Xenon HID headlamps, 650-watt Rockford Fosgate audio system, Sirius satellite radio ($2,750)
OUR TAKE: Call it Evo Lite or Mitsubishi's WRX fighter, but this car was long overdue in the Lancer lineup. Prior to this, there was a substantial gap between the 168-hp GTS and the 291-hp Evolution. A detuned Evo engine powers the Ralliart for a healthy 237 hp, and to give it a dose of technology, Mitsu opted for the dual-clutch transmission from the Evolution MR. No stick-shift is offered, and in the grand scheme of things (i.e., to sell the most cars), it's a good move, though word is some folks at Mitsubishi of America are fighting for it.There are some other Evolution bits found in the Ralliart, such as the all-wheel-drive system, steering and hood. Unfortunately, you don't get the Brembo brakes or suspension, though the suspension does feature specific tuning and bigger brakes over the GTS. The result is a very good light-heavyweight contender to take on the Impreza GT (the former WRX).Steering is lightning-quick, which we love from the Evolution, and the engine has good kick in the middle of the rev band before losing steam up near the top. The chassis is well sorted for commutes but is capable of handling the occasional flog. And unlike the Evo, the Ralliart keeps the full trunk because the battery and washer-fluid bottle stay under the hood.There is a $6,000 jump from this Ralliart to the Evolution, so it's priced right and you get enough components to make this a heck of a daily driver.