2006 Mitsubishi Eclipse GT

While the new Eclipse alone can't save Mitsubishi, it's nonetheless an important vehicle for the brand. If the Eclipse sells well, Mitsu could be on the road to recovery in the U.S. that much sooner. If it doesn't, well...it'll just be a longer crusade. The first- and second-generation versions were icons in the sport-compact segment and still garner a vast, loyal following due to the extensive aftermarket support for the easily modified turbocharged 2.0-liter engine. While the third generation sold in significant numbers, it didn't gain the dogged passion of the first gen from Eclipse loyalists who were left without their beloved turbo motors or an all-wheel-drive option. We decided to add a GT version to our one-year-test fleet. Even though forced induction is still absent from the engine compartment, the newest model offers the largest helping of power yet: 263 (front) tire-spinning horsepower from a naturally aspirated 3.8-liter V-6, with an equally impressive 260 pound-feet of torque, mated to a slick-shifting six-speed manual transmission. Unfortunately, all-wheel drive is still not an option, and the new car could use it since all that power can fry a set of tires like an egg on a rock in Death Valley in July.

We ordered a topline hero version, complete with electric tangerine-like Sunset Pearlescent paint ($130) with matching Terra Cotta leather interior. This trim features an orange dash overlay with front seats that have cream leather inserts and dash-color-matching Alcantara bolsters. It'll get your attention and everyone else's, and there's lots of good detailing inside and out.

Our only other option was the GT Premium Sport Package ($3270), which includes the aforementioned seats, 18-inch wheels/tires, power sunroof, power/heated seats and door mirrors, auto A/C, auto-dimming rearview mirror, alloy pedals, and a Rockford Fosgate 650-watt audio system. This system includes steering-wheel-mounted controls (borrowed from DaimlerChrysler) that work intuitively and a six-disc in-dash changer along with eight speakers and a 10-inch subwoofer. Out-the-door sticker totaled $27,694. The Eclipse GT already is winning over the staff, with one editor noting, "How is this not among the top-five bang-for-the-buck finalists? This car will turn out to be one of those industry secrets." For Mitsubishi's sake, we hope not.