Mitsubishi evolution of the Eclipse nameplate

Mitsubishi has utilized the ‘Eclipse’ name for various automotive models for over three decades, evolving the designation through several distinct vehicle types.

The name originated in 1989 with a sports coupe in the United States, named after an 18th-century British racehorse. This first generation featured gasoline engines, including a 2.0 turbo, and offered all-wheel-drive versions in certain markets. A second generation followed in 1994 with a wider body and rounded shapes, which also saw the 1996 introduction of the Eclipse Spyder convertible.

In a significant shift in vehicle classification, the name was later applied to the Eclipse Cross, a compact SUV. Built on the GS platform—a legacy of the Mitsubishi and DaimlerChrysler alliance—this model transitioned the brand from sports coupes to plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEV) and internal combustion engines. In Europe, the Eclipse Cross has been marketed primarily as a PHEV, while other global markets have seen versions with conventional gasoline or diesel engines.