2012 Mitsubishi Eclipse GS Sport Review – A Stylish Farewell to a Japanese Icon
Introduction
The 2012 Mitsubishi Eclipse GS Sport marks the final chapter in the Eclipse’s storied history. First introduced in 1990, the Eclipse became a cult classic among enthusiasts for its sporty style, affordability, and fun-to-drive attitude. By 2012, the Eclipse had evolved into a more mature, front-wheel-drive sport coupe with a sleek design and a well-appointed interior.
The GS Sport trim offered a stylish send-off to this iconic model, blending aggressive looks with comfort-focused features. In this detailed 2,000-word review, we’ll explore the 2012 Eclipse GS Sport across performance, design, comfort, technology, and its enduring appeal to both collectors and casual drivers.
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Exterior Design – Modern Curves with a Retro Soul
One of the Eclipse’s standout features has always been its design. The 2012 GS Sport maintains a bold appearance with muscular fenders, a swooping roofline, and a low, wide stance.
Exterior Features:
The GS Sport trim also features unique badging and subtle design enhancements that add to its visual appeal. While some critics felt the final-generation Eclipse lost its tuner edge, the 2012 model still turns heads thanks to its sculpted bodywork and coupe proportions.
Powertrain and Performance
The 2012 Mitsubishi Eclipse GS Sport is powered by a 2.4-liter inline-4 MIVEC engine that balances everyday drivability with decent sporty performance.
Engine Specs:
Engine: 2.4L SOHC MIVEC inline-4
Horsepower: 162 hp @ 6,000 rpm
Torque: 162 lb-ft @ 4,000 rpm
Transmission: 4-speed automatic with Sportronic manual mode
Drivetrain: Front-wheel drive
While the four-cylinder doesn’t provide blistering acceleration, it’s smooth and adequate for daily use and occasional spirited driving. The GS Sport’s suspension is tuned for a comfortable ride with just enough responsiveness to keep the drive engaging.
For buyers seeking more performance, the now-discontinued GT model with a 3.8L V6 delivered more excitement, but the GS Sport offers a more practical and efficient package.
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Ride and Handling
The Eclipse GS Sport focuses on a refined ride and predictable handling rather than aggressive corner carving. It’s ideal for drivers who value sporty style with a comfortable ride.
Ride Quality Highlights:
Independent MacPherson strut front suspension
Multi-link rear suspension
Front and rear stabilizer bars
Power-assisted rack-and-pinion steering
On winding roads, the Eclipse remains composed, with body roll well-controlled for a front-drive coupe. Steering is light but precise, and the ride is smooth enough for daily commuting. The 18-inch wheels and wide stance contribute to a planted feel at highway speeds.
Interior Design and Comfort
Inside the cabin, the 2012 Eclipse GS Sport impresses with a driver-focused layout and premium materials. The seats are supportive, and the overall atmosphere leans more toward grand touring than barebones sportiness.
Interior Features:
Leather-appointed seating surfaces
Heated front seats
6-way power driver seat
Aluminum pedals and sport gauges
Leather-wrapped steering wheel with audio controls
Automatic climate control
Interior Dimensions:
Front headroom: 38.5 in
Front legroom: 42.8 in
Rear legroom: 29.2 in
Cargo volume: 15.7 cu ft
While the rear seat is tight—as expected in a sport coupe—the front cabin is roomy and comfortable, even for taller drivers. The sloping roofline compromises rear visibility slightly, but the rear spoiler does not significantly obstruct the view.
Technology and Infotainment
The GS Sport trim is generously equipped with a user-friendly tech package. While some of the technology may feel dated by today’s standards, it was competitive in 2012.
Infotainment Features:
Rockford Fosgate premium audio system (650 watts)
9 speakers including a 10-inch subwoofer
AM/FM/CD/MP3 player with auxiliary input
SiriusXM satellite radio with 6-month trial
Bluetooth hands-free phone system
The audio quality is a standout feature, delivering rich, deep sound that adds to the car’s cruising enjoyment. The optional touchscreen navigation was not standard, but many units were sold with dealer-installed upgrades.
Safety Features and Ratings
Safety is a strong point for the 2012 Eclipse GS Sport, with solid ratings and standard features that ensure peace of mind.
Standard Safety Features:
Front-seat side-impact airbags
Full-length curtain airbags
4-wheel anti-lock braking system (ABS)
Electronic brake-force distribution (EBD)
Traction control and stability control
Tire pressure monitoring system
Crash Test Ratings:
NHTSA Overall Rating: 4 stars
IIHS: “Good” in moderate overlap front, side, and roof strength
The Eclipse delivers a strong safety package, especially for a two-door coupe, making it suitable for both younger drivers and daily commuters.
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Fuel Economy and Efficiency
The 2012 Eclipse GS Sport is relatively fuel-efficient for a sporty coupe, especially with its four-cylinder engine.
EPA Fuel Economy Estimates:
City: 20 mpg
Highway: 28 mpg
Combined: 23 mpg
These figures make the Eclipse a sensible choice for those looking to combine style with fuel savings. Premium fuel is not required, keeping running costs reasonable.
Reliability and Ownership Costs
Mitsubishi built the final Eclipse models with an eye toward quality and durability. The 2.4L engine is proven and simple, minimizing long-term maintenance costs.
Ownership Highlights:
Warranty (original): 5-year/60,000-mile basic; 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain
Maintenance: Low cost for regular services
Insurance: Affordable compared to other sport coupes
Resale Value: Modest, but steady due to limited production
As the last model year, the 2012 GS Sport holds appeal for collectors and fans alike. Parts remain readily available, and its reputation for reliability makes it a dependable used vehicle.
Real-World Appeal and Versatility
In everyday use, the 2012 Eclipse GS Sport is a stylish and comfortable companion. It’s not meant to be a track star but rather a personal coupe that stands out from the crowd.
The hatchback layout adds versatility, with a spacious trunk and fold-down rear seats. The comfortable ride and upscale features make it well-suited for commuting, weekend drives, and even light road trips.
This final-generation Eclipse works well for:
Young professionals wanting sporty looks with comfort
Enthusiasts looking for a stylish coupe on a budget
Collectors interested in the last of the Eclipse line
Pros and Cons
Pros:
Eye-catching exterior design
Comfortable, premium interior for a coupe
Smooth ride and predictable handling
Rockford Fosgate sound system
Good reliability and ownership costs
Cons:
Rear seat is tight for adults
Outdated infotainment by modern standards
No manual transmission option in GS Sport
Performance doesn’t match some rivals in the segment
Ideal Buyer for the 2012 Eclipse GS Sport
The 2012 Mitsubishi Eclipse GS Sport is best for:
Buyers seeking an affordable, stylish coupe
Drivers wanting a reliable and unique daily driver
Mitsubishi fans and Eclipse collectors
Commuters who prioritize comfort with a touch of sportiness
If you’re not chasing outright performance and instead want a distinctive, well-equipped coupe that’s enjoyable to drive and easy to live with, the GS Sport is a fantastic option.
Conclusion
The 2012 Mitsubishi Eclipse GS Sport is a fitting farewell to one of the most iconic Japanese coupes of its time. It may not be the turbocharged tuner favorite it once was, but it matured into a stylish, refined, and enjoyable coupe for everyday driving.
With its sleek design, solid feature set, and proven reliability, the GS Sport continues to find favor with those seeking an affordable sporty car that stands apart from the mainstream. As the last Eclipse ever built, it carries a sense of nostalgia and collectibility that adds to its value and charm.
If you're searching for a 2012 Mitsubishi Eclipse GS Sport for sale near Norfolk or Virginia Beach, visit Your Kar Company at 7912 Becket Street, Norfolk, VA 23518 for a great selection and financing options tailored to your needs.
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Information deemed reliable, but not guaranteed. Interested parties should confirm all data before relying on it to make a purchase decision. All prices and specifications are subject to change without notice. Prices may not include additional fees such as government fees and taxes, title and registration fees, finance charges, dealer document preparation fees, $599 processing fee, and emission testing and compliance charges. VADLR5929-7574800100.
