2002 Mitsubishi Eclipse

The 2002 Mitsubishi Eclipse is a compact sport coupe and convertible, both seating four people. It’s recommended for drivers who want a sleek and affordable sports car and can live with less practicality than a sedan or SUV delivers.

The Eclipse is an affordable and engaging sports car with a choice of engines. It comes standard with a 147-horsepower 2.4-liter 4-cylinder engine or an optional 3.0-liter V6 with a peppier 200 horsepower. Both can be paired with a 5-speed manual or 4-speed automatic transmission and come standard with front-wheel drive (FWD).

Mitsubishi Eclipse Changes for 2002

• No major changes.

Where the Eclipse Sits in the 2002 Mitsubishi Lineup

In addition to the Eclipse, Mitsubishi’s 2002 product line includes the subcompact Mirage, compact Lancer, midsize Galant, and luxury-minded Diamante sedans, as well as the Montero and Montero Sport SUVs.

2002 Mitsubishi Eclipse vs. the Competition

So-called pony cars are more affordable and more drivable alternatives to sky-high-priced exotics; these popular rides rule the road:

• Chevrolet Camaro: Powerful engines rule in closed and open-roof models.

• Ford Mustang: Likewise offered as a coupe or convertible, with available V8 thrust.

• Toyota Celica: Stylish and reasonably capable coupe with a 4-cylinder engine.

What’s the Best 2002 Mitsubishi Eclipse Trim for You?

Which Trim Is the Best Value?

The base RS coupe comes with all the essentials, including air conditioning, aluminum wheels, and a stereo, at the most-affordable price in the line.

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Best Trim for Fuel Economy

An Eclipse coupe with the base 4-cylinder engine and 5-speed manual transmission earned the best EPA rating in the lineup, at 23 mpg combined city/highway.

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Best Trim for Trunk Space

Stick with an Eclipse coupe to get the most stowage space. It has a 16.9-cubic-foot trunk.

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Top-of-the-Line Trim

The GT is the best-equipped 2002 Mitsubishi Eclipse, with the V6 engine, keyless entry, fog lights, and upgraded cloth seats, with adjustable lumbar support for the driver.

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Should I Buy an Older Mitsubishi Eclipse Instead?

This model year is part of the Eclipse’s third generation, which lasted from the 2000-2005 model years. Any model within that range should be similar to a 2002 version and can make for affordable fun — especially the convertible.

You can find a used Mitsubishi Eclipse with Carfax used car listings. Each used car comes with a free Carfax vehicle history report.

Research the Eclipse from other model years