The top is about to go down on the new Mitsubishi Eclipse as the Spyder version joins the lineup in the spring of 2006 as a 2007 model.

The Eclipse Spyder features a soft top that opens and closes at the touch of a button in roughly 20 seconds (about the wait time at a stoplight) and will be covered by an automatic hard tonneau cover.

The last Spyder available in Canada was the 1999 model (the first generation was introduced in 1996 and replaced for 2000 model year), as the second generation was not brought north of the border.

The decision was taken by the American arm of the company, which until recently oversaw Canadian operations. Canada now reports directly to Japan, and the decision was made to import as many as 440 Eclipse Spyders into Canada for the remainder of 2006.

The new car continues to be built on the Galant platform in Normal, Illinois, and carries a price tag starting at $31,998 (about $3,000 cheaper than the model it replaces). Mitsubishi considers the Spyder's main competitor the Ford Mustang convertible, but says it will also be considered by potential buyers of roadsters like the Mazda MX-5 and Saturn Sky, as well as 4-seat convertibles like the Pontiac G6 convertible and Toyota Solara.

The 2007 Spyder is available with either a 162-hp 2.4-litre in-line 4-cylinder engine (GS) or a 260-hp 3.8-litre V6 (GT-P). Priced from $36,998 (about $4,000 cheaper than the previous model), the GT-P is expected to account for 40 percent of Spyder sales. Both engines feature variable valve timing for maximum benefits in power and fuel economy. A preliminary drive in GT-P models showed that engine power is not lacking, and though the V6's size impacts the gas gauge, it is considerably better than other similar powerplants.

GS and GT-P trim levels will be available with 5- or 6-speed manual transmissions, respectively, and optionally with 4- or 5-speed automatics with sequential shift mode.

Mitsubishi says increases in body stiffness and underbody reinforcements will grant manners similar to those of the Eclipse coupe. An extended drive around the wine region of Ontario proved the car very competent on various surfaces, but we'll reserve judgement until we can get it for a week on more familiar roads.

The driving position is low in the tub, which aids in keeping wind buffeting out, but does provide a claustrophobic feeling when the top is in place. Wind turbulence on the highway with the top down is normal, and with the top in place it's nicely muted.

The question then becomes, will Mitsubishi benefit from a traffic generator such as the Eclipse Spyder. The sporty coupe/convertible market is going away, but Mitsubishi is expecting it to pick up again once cars like the new Chevrolet Camaro hits production.