 I have been driving Mitsubishi cars since 1994.  Most of those years I have driven the Eclipse. (2004 I had the Outlander XLT, nice SUV!  But I did not like how an SUV is blown around on the highway by winds).  I have NEVER had an engine problem with any of my Mistsubishis, but did have problems with the quality of the bodies (only in the Eclipse) and loose handeling.  This year's model has MANY improvements from those in the past!  It has MANY more saftey features, like WINDOW airbags, as well as front and side airbags.  This year's body feels much more secure on the road, it is MUCH tighter.  The body is of a higher quality also.  It also has much more of a "sports car" feel and look. I have to say I love the car.