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The Mitsubishi Eclipse has always been an exciting and youthful car that dared to be different. Now, it's bigger and safer than ever- but it's still packed full of the same 'affordable exotic' DNA that's made it a hot commodity throughout many circles.

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The interior packaging sees the centre console mounted low, so there's plenty of arm room between the leather bucket seats- though room above the knees is at a premium.

This hot-wheels model brings together a selection of boy-racer styling elements with some old-school charm.

Four or six cylinder power is available, as is an automatic or manual transmission and coupe or convertible body styles. Whether it's a miserly ragtop or a rip-roaring coupe you're after, there's an Eclipse that's right for the job.

This hot-wheels model brings together a selection of boy-racer styling elements with some old-school charm. There's no xenon lighting, no dual exhaust and no jagged edges like many comparable coupes- but the Eclipse's overall appearance makes it look the part of a youthful, road-legal toy.

A mirror-finish lip spoiler completes the rear end, and the body rides a set of 18-inch wheels. If you want a sports car that visually reminds you of your favorites like the 300ZX, RX7, Audi TT and even the Porsche Carrera GT, then this is your ride.

Inside, a low driving position is required to maximize headroom, and visibility to the rear is limited. The interior packaging sees the centre console mounted low, so there's plenty of arm room between the leather bucket seats- though room above the knees is at a premium.

It's hard to put a finger on, but due to the awkward placement of the window switches, door handles and steering-wheel mounted audio controls, you may find it difficult to become completely at home in the Eclipse's cockpit.

It looks killer and feels reasonably well made, though some may find it a touch on the cold side where ergonomics are concerned.

Features included heated leather seats, a powered moonroof, power windows and mirrors, automatic climate control and plenty of storage space in the deep cup-holders and generous centre console.

Eclipse GT also comes standard with the ultimate import-tuner accessory: a window-shaking stereo complete with trunk mounted subwoofer.

The Rockford Fosgate system includes a six CD changer and enough wattage to rattle the rearview mirror into a useless blur when cranked. This stereo rivals far more expensive setups on the market for power and clarity, though it's got some serious competition for your listening pleasure from under the hood.

Mitsubishi has specified a 'power through size' approach with the Eclipse, employing a robust 3.8 litre V6 engine to send 263 horsepower to the front wheels. The torque-monster mill lets out a gorgeous bark upon startup, and its deep and mellow exhaust note becomes present during cruising with just the slightest touch of the throttle.

Hold it down, and the deep howl transforms into an exciting wail. Eclipse surges forward with any touch of the accelerator, and eagerly leaps into the next gear with every flick of the six-speed stick. Its minimal-effort action allows owners to rush through the ratios quickly, optionally chirping tires into second and third gear.

When cruising in the Eclipse with the exhaust howling and subwoofer pumping, avoid the temptation to turn your hat sideways and hang one arm out the window- as you'll need both hands on the steering wheel.

With 260 lb.-ft heading up front, a firm pair of hands is needed to keep the car from torque-steering for the ditch under hard acceleration.

A front-drive coupe with a 3.8 liter engine jammed ahead of the wheels isn't the best route to go for handling, though the Eagle RSA tires hold on well in all but the tightest corners. Powering out too eagerly in second gear will ignite the front tires in a jiffy.

On straight roads, Eclipse commendably absorbs most every bump and heave with little fuss. It could definitely get away with riding a lot worse.

As an exercise in styling uniqueness, muscular power and a nostalgic presence, Mitsubishi's nailed this car down. Ergonomics aren't perfect and the handling won't blow away any WRX's or BMW 1-Series's, but the gawk-factor, monster stereo and wicked engine should do the trick for most boy-racer and girl-racer types.