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Eagle Summit
Eagle Summit
Eagle Summit
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Eagle Summit
Overview
ManufacturerMitsubishi Motors
Production1989–1996
Body and chassis
ClassSubcompact
Compact MPV (wagon) [1]
Chronology
Predecessor
Successor

The Eagle Summit is a line of subcompact cars produced for two generations by Mitsubishi and sold by Eagle from 1989 until 1996. It was marketed as a captive import by the Jeep-Eagle sales division that was established after Chrysler Corporation purchased American Motors Corporation (AMC) in 1987.

Overview

[edit]

Use of the Eagle model name originated with the innovative all-wheel-drive AMC Eagle introduced for the 1980 model year.[2] Production continued even after Chrysler purchased AMC, but both the AMC brand and the original Eagle line were discontinued after 1988.[3] The replacements were "badge-engineered products designed, Chrysler said, to compete with hot-selling import cars."[3]

The Eagle Summit joined the Dodge Colt and Plymouth Colt starting in 1989 as Chrysler wound down the assembly of the subcompact Plymouth Horizon and Dodge Omni twins.[4] The introduction of the Summit coincided with the release of the Mitsubishi Mirage's third generation.

The Eagle Summit was positioned as a subcompact automobile model in the product mix for Jeep-Eagle dealers.[5] Previously, this position was held by the Renault Alliance until it was discontinued following Chrysler's acquisition of AMC from Renault in 1987.

The Eagle Summit line continued through the extent of the Mirage's fourth generation, which ended in 1996. The somewhat related Eagle Summit Wagon (a compact MPV) was marketed from 1992 through 1996 and was based on the Mitsubishi RVR.

The Chrysler Neon was introduced in January 1994 and distributed through Dodge and Plymouth dealers. Chrysler officials declared that an Eagle version of the Neon was not planned.[6] This decision meant that Eagle dealers had no competitor to the Neon and, combined with the Summit's Mitsubishi heritage, made the Eagle line expendable.[1]

Year-to-year changes

[edit]

First generation (1989–1992)

[edit]
First generation
Overview
Production1989–1992
Assembly
Body and chassis
Body style
LayoutFF layout
Related
Powertrain
Engine
  • 1.5 L 81 hp (60 kW) I4
  • 1.6 L 123 hp (92 kW) I4
Transmission
Dimensions
Wheelbase
  • 93.9 in (2,385 mm) (sedan)
  • 93.9 in (2,385 mm) (hatchback)
Length
  • 170.1 in (4,321 mm) (sedan)
  • 158.7 in (4,031 mm) (hatchback)
Width65.7 in (1,669 mm)
Height
  • 52.8 in (1,341 mm) (sedan)
  • 51.9 in (1,318 mm) (hatchback)
Curb weight
  • 2,271 lb (1,030 kg) (sedan)
  • 2,205 lb (1,000 kg) (hatchback)

The Summit was a badge engineered version of the Mitsubishi Mirage. In a pairing of the Japanese-built Mitsubishi Mirage and the identical Eagle Summit to test if Lee Iacocca's theory was true regarding the preference of a Japanese to an American brand on similar cars, Popular Mechanics found that American consumers were "not sold on Japanese cars. Quite the opposite. They want to "Buy American," but the Japanese manufacturers seem to offer more of the type of cars Americans need and at a better price, and from more cooperative dealers."[8] The Summit was originally manufactured in Japan. Starting with the 1991 model year, the Eagle Summits were also built by Diamond-Star Motors (DSM), a joint-venture between Chrysler and Mitsubishi, in Normal, Illinois.[9]

1989: Summit was introduced as a sedan in DL and LX trim, both powered by a 1.5-liter 8-valve four-cylinder engine with 81 hp (60 kW). The LX could have a 1.6-liter 16-valve DOHC engine with 123 hp (92 kW). The 100.7 cubic feet (2.85 m3) of interior volume classified the Summit into the compact car class, while most of its competitors were still subcompacts. The Summit was also noted for its generous rear legroom. Sales started in August 1988.
1990: A low-cost base model was added to the bottom of the Summit line. Added to the top was a new ES, which paired the 1.6-liter engine with a sport suspension, 4-wheel-disc brakes, and 14-inch (360 mm) alloy wheels with P195/60R14 tires. All models received all-capital lettering on the back.
Hatchback (related Dodge Colt)
1991: The 1.5-liter engine output increased to 92 hp (69 kW; 93 PS) due to 4 additional valves (for 12 total). The ES models returned to 13-inch (330 mm) wheels and disc brakes on only the front. New was the 2-door Summit hatchback; both it and the sedan was available in base and ES trims. The manual transmission was a 4-speed on the base hatchback and a 5-speed on all others; the automatic was a 3-speed on hatchbacks and a 4-speed on sedans. All models featured a new front grille.
1992: The Summit Wagon joined the line, and it was a completely different vehicle featuring a high roofline and sliding rear side door. This "crossover" design was actually a rebadged Mitsubishi RVR, thus not related to the Mirage-based Summits. The Wagon was available in DL and LX trims, as well as in a four-wheel drive (AWD) version. The new Summit Wagon was marketed as blending the maneuverability of a small car with the roominess of a minivan with its interior offering high seating positions and removable rear seats.[10] It was designed to attract young families with seating for five.[11]
Production Figures:
Eagle Summit Production Figures[12]
Sedan Hatchback Yearly Total
1989 27,213 - 27,213
1990 13,772 - 13,772
1991 9,257 8,363 17,620
1992 3,348 6,881 10,229
Total 53,590 15,244 68,834

Second generation (1993–1996)

[edit]
Second generation
Overview
Also calledWagon: Mitsubishi Space Runner (Europe) [13]
Production1993–1996
AssemblyJapan: Kurashiki, Okayama (coupé & sedan)
Body and chassis
Body style
LayoutFront engine, front-wheel drive
Related
Powertrain
Engine
  • 1.5 L 92 hp (69 kW) I4
  • 1.8 L 113 hp (84 kW) I4
Transmission
Dimensions
Wheelbase
  • Coupe: 96.1 in (2,441 mm)
  • Sedan: 98.4 in (2,499 mm)
  • Wagon: 99.2 in (2,520 mm)
Length
  • Sedan: 174.0 in (4,420 mm)
  • Wagon: 168.5 in (4,280 mm)
Width
  • 1993-94: 66.5 in (1,689 mm)
  • 1995-96: 66.1 in (1,679 mm)
Height
  • 51.4 in (1,306 mm)
  • 1995-96 Coupe: 51.6 in (1,311 mm)
Curb weightWagon: 2,700 lb (1,225 kg)

The 1993 model year Summits were completely new and featured more room on the inside as well as weighing less than before.[14] The Summit was now based the fourth generation Mitsubishi Mirage 'CC' chassis platform featuring a multilink rear suspension and the body was given a rounder shape.

The hatchback body design was dropped in favor of a two-door coupe version, while a four-door sedan joined the Summit lineup.[14][1]

Eagle Summit coupe
Eagle Summit Sedan (U.S.)
Eagle Summit Wagon

The Summit Wagon, a rebadged Mitsubishi RVR was classified as a compact minivan,[15] or a compact MPV.[16]

1993: As with the Mirage and both Colts, the base 1.5-liter engine remained, paired to a 5-speed manual or 3-speed automatic. New was a 113 hp (84 kW; 115 PS) 1.8-liter SOHC engine, whose optional automatic was a 4-speed. The Summit was offered in sedan and coupe body styles, in both DL and ES trim lines. The RVR-based minivan version, marketed as the Summit Wagon, replaced the Canada-only Eagle Vista wagon.
1994: All Summits featured a driver's side airbag, replacing one of the motorized seatbelts. The lower-end DL sedan was rebadged LX and inherited the 1.8-liter engine, which was now an option for the ES coupe as well. The ES sedan upgraded to larger 14-inch (360 mm) wheels.
1995: A passenger's side airbag on all Summits replaced the other motorized seatbelt, and ES models were renamed ESi. More significantly, the 1994 demise of both Colts left the Summit as the only remaining Mirage clone, and the cancellation of the Mirage sedan at the end of 1994 left the Summit as the only four-door offering.
1996: Summit models entered its last model year with new paint colors and seat fabrics.[17]

Trim levels overview

[edit]
4-door sedan (1989-1996)
  • DL - 1989-1990; 1993
  • LX - 1989-1990; 1994–1996
  • base - 1990-1992
  • ES - 1990-1994
  • ESi - 1994-1996
2-door coupe/hatchback (1991-1996)
  • base - 1991-1992
  • ES - 1991-1994
  • DL - 1993-1996
  • ESi - 1994-1996

References

[edit]
[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

Eagle Summit

View on Grokipedia
from Grokipedia
The Eagle Summit was a subcompact automobile line produced by and marketed through Chrysler's Eagle division from the 1989 to the 1996 model years. It consisted of rebadged versions of models, primarily the for passenger cars and the Expo LRV for the variant, offering affordable entry-level transportation in sedan, , and body styles. Powered by efficient inline-four engines, the Summit emphasized fuel economy, compact maneuverability, and practical interior for urban and small families. Introduced in late 1988 as a replacement for the discontinued in Eagle showrooms, the first-generation Summit (1989–1992) debuted as a four-door sedan in base D/L, upscale LX, and performance-oriented ES trims, with a base 1.5-liter SOHC producing 81 horsepower in the DL trim, while the performance-oriented ES featured a 1.6-liter DOHC producing 113 horsepower. A three-door joined the lineup for 1991–1992, available in base and ES configurations, paired with either a five-speed manual or optional three-speed . These models featured electronic , standard in higher trims, and a focus on reliability derived from Mitsubishi's engineering, though safety equipment was limited, with no driver-side until later years. The second-generation Summit (1993–1996) underwent a redesign with more rounded styling and expanded options, including a two-door coupe alongside the continued sedan, with the Summit Wagon available starting from the 1992 model year. Engine choices included the carryover 1.5-liter (92 hp) or an upgraded 1.8-liter (113 hp) for better performance, achieving up to 27 mpg city and 34 mpg highway in automatic-equipped models. The wagon variant, based on the Mitsubishi Expo LRV, offered all-wheel drive, a single sliding passenger-side door, and fold-flat rear seats for versatile cargo capacity, positioning it as a budget-friendly alternative in the emerging minivan segment. Production ended in 1996 as Chrysler consolidated its lineup with the introduction of the Neon, leading to the eventual phase-out of the Eagle brand by 1998.

Development and background

Origins and market positioning

The Eagle brand was established by Corporation following its acquisition of (AMC) in 1987, primarily to secure the profitable division while repurposing AMC's dealer network and existing lineup. This move created as a new division, with Eagle serving as Chrysler's first standalone brand since DeSoto in , drawing on the legacy of AMC's Eagle four-wheel-drive models to appeal to import-oriented buyers seeking American-branded alternatives. The brand's rationale centered on filling gaps in Chrysler's portfolio by transitioning away from aging Renault partnerships—such as the underperforming Alliance and Encore subcompacts—and introducing more competitive Japanese imports to maintain market presence in the entry-level segment. To address the subcompact void left by the models, Eagle introduced the in August 1988 as a 1989 vehicle, rebadging the platform to provide an affordable, fuel-efficient option built on a proven Japanese design. Positioned as an entry-level car for budget-conscious young buyers and urban commuters, the Summit emphasized practicality, value, and everyday reliability derived from the longstanding Chrysler-Mitsubishi partnership, which dated back to the early and allowed Eagle to leverage Mitsubishi's engineering without fully domestic production. campaigns highlighted the vehicle's American identity under the Eagle banner, portraying it as a smart, no-nonsense choice that combined import quality with accessible ownership, despite its foreign assembly. The base DL model debuted with an MSRP of $8,229, making it competitively priced against rivals like the and in the subcompact market, where it aimed to capture sales through superior interior space and feature content relative to its cost. This strategy targeted first-time buyers and fleet operators seeking economical transportation, positioning the as a gateway to the Eagle lineup and broader ecosystem.

Platform and production

The Eagle Summit utilized a shared platform with the , employing the third-generation Mirage for the first generation (1989–1992) and the fourth-generation Mirage's CC , introduced in 1993, for to support an updated structure. It adopted a front-wheel-drive configuration with independent suspension at the front and a torsion beam setup at the rear, providing a balance of ride comfort and handling efficiency typical of subcompact designs. The first-generation models featured a 93.7-inch for both sedan and variants, while the second-generation sedan extended to 98.0 inches to accommodate refined proportions and improved interior space. The Eagle Summit sedan and hatchback were produced at Mitsubishi's Okazaki plant in Aichi, Japan, from 1989 to 1996. The Summit Wagon variant was assembled at the (DSM) joint-venture facility in , beginning with its introduction for the 1993 model year. Assembly processes for the U.S. market incorporated specific adaptations, such as enhanced emission controls and fuel system tweaks to comply with Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) standards, including catalytic converters optimized for American fuel formulations and calibrations aligned with federal requirements. These modifications ensured the Summit met stringent emissions and safety criteria without altering core engineering. Production estimates indicate approximately 68,834 units for the first generation, reflecting a focused output during its introductory phase, while the second generation ranged from 50,000 to 60,000 units based on available , with gaps in official documentation after 1992 complicating precise tallies.

First generation (1989–1992)

Design and body styles

The first-generation Eagle Summit was introduced for the model year as a badge-engineered version of the third-generation , built on a subcompact platform with boxy, angular styling typical of late-1980s Japanese economy cars. The exterior featured a upright , rectangular headlights, and a simple grille, prioritizing functionality over while maintaining compact dimensions for urban use. Initially available only as a four-door sedan, the lineup expanded for 1991 with the addition of a three-door , both body styles seating five passengers with practical interior space, including 100.7 cubic feet of passenger volume and generous rear legroom for the class. The sedan measured 170.1 inches in length, 65.7 inches in width, and 52.8 inches in height, with a 93.9-inch ; the was shorter at 158.7 inches long and 51.9 inches high. Trims included the base DL and upscale LX for 1989, transitioning to base and performance-oriented ES for 1990–1992, with higher trims offering standard , power accessories, and cloth upholstery. The interior emphasized affordability and reliability, with a straightforward layout, manual windows in base models, and optional AM/FM radio. Safety features were basic for the era, including three-point seatbelts but no driver-side airbag or ABS until later models in the lineup. Production occurred at the facility in , a between and . Minor updates over the years included revised badging and interior materials, but no major facelifts. was a key selling point, with the lightweight design (curb weights around 2,200–2,300 pounds) aiding maneuverability.

Powertrain and specifications

The first-generation Eagle Summit was powered exclusively by inline-four engines from , focusing on economy and reliability for entry-level buyers. The base 1.5-liter SOHC engine, with eight valves in 1989 producing 81 horsepower at 5,500 rpm and 88 lb-ft of at 3,000 rpm, was updated to a 12-valve version for 1990–1992 yielding 92 horsepower and 97 lb-ft. The ES trim featured a 1.6-liter DOHC 16-valve engine delivering 113 horsepower at 6,000 rpm and 105 lb-ft at 5,000 rpm for improved performance. Both engines used multi-point for better efficiency and emissions compliance. Transmissions included a five-speed manual as standard, with a three-speed automatic optional on base models and a four-speed automatic available on ES variants; all models were . The 1.5-liter manual achieved EPA estimates of 28 city and 34 highway, with 0-60 mph times around 10 seconds and a top speed of 105 mph. Curb weights ranged from 2,205 pounds for the to 2,271 pounds for the sedan, contributing to responsive handling. Final drive ratios were geared for economy, with the 1.5-liter providing adequate low-end torque for city driving.
Component1.5L SOHC I4 (Base, 1989)1.5L SOHC I4 (Base, 1990–1992)1.6L DOHC I4 (ES)
Displacement1,468 cc1,468 cc1,597 cc
Horsepower81 hp @ 5,500 rpm92 hp @ 5,500 rpm113 hp @ 6,000 rpm
Torque88 lb-ft @ 3,000 rpm97 lb-ft @ 3,000 rpm105 lb-ft @ 5,000 rpm
Fuel SystemMulti-point injectionMulti-point injectionMulti-point injection
Transmission Options5-speed manual; 3-speed automatic5-speed manual; 3-speed automatic5-speed manual; 4-speed automatic
0-60 mph (manual)~10.5 seconds~9.8 seconds~9.0 seconds
Top Speed105 mph110 mph115 mph
EPA MPG (manual, city/highway)28/3428/3426/32
Curb Weight Range2,200–2,300 lb2,200–2,300 lb2,250–2,350 lb
Drive TypeFWDFWDFWD
Final Drive Ratio (manual example)4.217:14.217:14.058:1

Second generation (1993–1996)

Design and body styles

The second-generation Eagle Summit, introduced for the 1993 model year, underwent a complete redesign based on the CC platform shared with the fourth-generation , resulting in a lighter and more spacious vehicle compared to its predecessor. The exterior adopted a rounded, aerodynamic styling with curved surfaces, a raked , and a slightly curved roofline to enhance airflow and efficiency. This jellybean-like design featured narrow headlights with rounded upper edges and corner-mounted turn signals, giving the subcompact a sleeker, more modern appearance while maintaining compact proportions. Available in three body styles, the lineup included a two-door measuring 171.1 inches in length, a four-door sedan at 174.0 inches, and a five-door at 168.5 inches, all with widths around 66 inches and heights varying from 51.4 inches for the and sedan to 62.6 inches for the . The replaced the variant from the prior generation, offering a sportier profile, while the sedan provided practical family transport, and the catered to utility needs with an optional all-wheel-drive system for better traction. The 's design emphasized multi-purpose vehicle (MPV) functionality, featuring a single sliding passenger-side door for easier access and flexible interior configurations with folding and removable rear seats to accommodate cargo or passengers. Interior updates focused on improved and comfort, with a incorporating rounded lines and soft edges for a more inviting cabin that seated up to five occupants. Optional was available across trims, while higher-end models like the ES and ESi added power windows, , and an optional AM/FM cassette stereo player for enhanced convenience. features evolved over the run; a driver's-side became standard starting in 1994, replacing one of the motorized seatbelts, with dual airbags added for 1995. Minor year-to-year revisions kept the lineup fresh, including a 1995 update that introduced dual front airbags as standard and simplified trim options to DL for base models and ESi for uplevel variants. While no major exterior facelift occurred, the wagon was positioned as a versatile with up to 79 cubic feet of maximum cargo space when the rear seats were folded or removed, underscoring its practicality for small families or light hauling. The aerodynamic refinements contributed to respectable , with base 1.5-liter models achieving up to 40 on the per EPA estimates.

Powertrain and specifications

The second-generation Eagle Summit (1993–1996) utilized two inline-four engines with single overhead camshaft (SOHC) designs, both derived from engineering and emphasizing efficiency for subcompact . The base 1.5-liter produced 92 horsepower at 5,500 rpm and 93 lb-ft of , providing adequate power for urban commuting while maintaining low-end responsiveness. In the ESi trim, a larger 1.8-liter SOHC I4 delivered 113 horsepower at 6,000 rpm and 116 lb-ft of , offering improved mid-range for highway merging and overtaking. Both engines featured sequential multi-port for precise fuel delivery and better emissions control compared to earlier carbureted systems. Power was routed through a five-speed standard, with automatic options varying by engine: a three-speed automatic for the 1.5L base models or a four-speed automatic for the 1.8L, with as standard across sedan and body styles. The 1.5-liter model with the manual transmission achieved 0-60 mph in 9.2 seconds and a top speed of 110 mph, balancing peppy low-speed response with economical operation. Curb weights varied from 1,900 to 2,300 pounds depending on body style and equipment, contributing to nimble handling and reduced . The EPA-rated fuel economy for the 1.5-liter manual was 32 city and 40 highway, underscoring the model's appeal for fuel-conscious buyers. The wagon variant was equipped with the 1.8L (FWD) or a 2.4L SOHC I4 (136 hp, 145 lb-ft; AWD only), and introduced optional all-wheel drive (AWD) on the 2.4L model, employing a in the to distribute between the front and rear axles for enhanced traction on slippery surfaces without constant engagement. This system added approximately 200 pounds to the curb weight but maintained similar metrics to front-wheel-drive counterparts. Final drive ratios were tuned for efficiency, with the automatic transmission using a 4.058:1 ratio to optimize gear spacing and revs at cruising speeds. Torque delivery peaked early in both engines, with the 1.5-liter providing steady pull from 2,000 to 4,000 rpm for smooth city driving, while the 1.8-liter offered a broader curve extending to 5,000 rpm for more versatile .
Component1.5L SOHC I4 (Base, sedan/)1.8L SOHC I4 (ESi, sedan// FWD)
Displacement1,468 cc1,834 cc
Horsepower92 hp @ 5,500 rpm113 hp @ 6,000 rpm
Torque93 lb-ft @ 3,000 rpm116 lb-ft @ 4,500 rpm
Fuel SystemSequential multi-port injectionSequential multi-port injection
Transmission Options5-speed manual; 3-speed automatic5-speed manual; 4-speed automatic
0-60 mph (manual)9.2 seconds8.5 seconds
Top Speed110 mph115 mph
EPA MPG (manual, city/highway)32/4027/34
Curb Weight Range1,900–2,100 lb2,000–2,300 lb
Drive TypeFWDFWD
Final Drive Ratio (automatic example)4.058:14.058:1
*Note: Wagon AWD variant used 2.4L SOHC I4 (136 hp @ 5,000 rpm, 145 lb-ft @ 2,500 rpm) with 5-speed manual or 4-speed ; EPA 21/28 (manual).

Trim levels and variants

Standard trims

The first-generation Eagle Summit (–1992) offered two standard trims for its sedan body style: the base DL and the mid-level LX. The 1991–1992 three-door was available in base and ES configurations. The DL trim served as the entry-level option, equipped with a 1.5-liter inline-four , manual air , , and basic instrumentation, carrying an MSRP of $9,347 for the sedan model. The LX trim built on this foundation by adding , upgraded cloth for improved comfort, and enhanced interior accents, with an MSRP of $10,364 for the sedan. Both trims shared core standard features such as an AM/FM radio and intermittent windshield wipers, while optional packages like the convenience group provided additions including and windows for further customization. In the second generation (1993–1996), the lineup for sedan and variants expanded to include the base DL and a sport-oriented trim, with the paired exclusively with higher-output options as detailed in specifications. The DL featured a 1.5-liter , straightforward analog gauges, and essential amenities, with an MSRP of $9,597 for the 1993 sedan. The trim introduced sporty elements like fog lights and alloy wheels for a more dynamic appearance and handling, starting at $10,580 for the 1993 sedan. Common across all second-generation trims were the AM/FM radio and intermittent wipers, with the convenience group option available to add power locks and mirrors. Pricing for the standard trims evolved upward over the production run, reflecting and incremental feature enhancements; for instance, the DL coupe reached an MSRP of $10,625, a notable increase from earlier models while maintaining core value positioning. These trims emphasized affordability and practicality in the subcompact segment, with the DL appealing to budget-conscious buyers and the ES to enthusiasts desiring a touch of flair.

Wagon variant

The Eagle Summit Wagon was introduced in 1992, offering a five-door body style designed for family use and based on the Expo LRV platform throughout its production run to 1996. It featured a -sourced 1.8-liter inline-four producing 113 horsepower, paired with either a five-speed manual or four-speed , while all-wheel drive (AWD) was available exclusively with the more powerful 2.4-liter rated at 136 horsepower. Engine options continued similarly through 1996 with the 1.8-liter (113 hp) for front-wheel-drive models and the 2.4-liter (136 hp) for AWD variants, with AWD becoming more commonly offered in certain markets like for enhanced all-weather performance. Distinctive design elements emphasized its utility as a family hauler, including a taller roofline measuring 62.6 inches in height to accommodate and passengers, fold-flat rear seats for versatility, and standard roof rails for securing loads. capacity provided 23.9 cubic feet behind the rear seats, expanding to approximately 57.5 cubic feet with the seats folded, making it suitable for groceries, luggage, or recreational gear. The wagon shared its underpinnings with the standard Summit models but prioritized practicality with a rear for easier access and a compact overall length of 168.5 inches. Available in DL base and LX trims, the Wagon DL started at an MSRP of $12,260 in 1993, positioning it as an affordable alternative to larger minivans and often marketed as a "mini-minivan" for its blend of wagon versatility and people-moving capability. Unique family-oriented options included rear heat vents for passenger comfort and child safety features such as integrated child seat anchors in later models. Fuel economy was rated at 21 city/26 highway for front-wheel-drive versions, with AWD models incurring a penalty of 19/24 due to the added complexity. Production of the Eagle Summit Wagon was limited, with total U.S. sales reaching approximately 23,000 units across its run from 1992 to 1995, focusing on buyers seeking all-weather capability in a subcompact package.

Reception and legacy

Sales and market impact

The Eagle Summit achieved moderate sales during its first generation (1989–1992), totaling approximately 88,821 units in the U.S. market, with annual figures reaching a peak of 29,853 in 1990 before declining slightly to 21,073 in 1992 amid the introduction of the wagon variant. The second generation (1993–1996) saw estimated total sales of around 33,413 units, starting strong at 19,436 in 1993 but dropping progressively to 6,866 in 1994, 5,060 in 1995, and just 2,051 in 1996, reflecting a broader industry shift toward SUVs and light trucks. In the competitive U.S. subcompact segment, the Summit captured a modest 1–2% annually during the early , outsold significantly by leaders like the but valued for its affordability and starting around $10,000. Declining demand was exacerbated by falling gasoline prices in the mid-, which hovered near $1 per gallon and encouraged consumers to opt for larger vehicles over efficient subcompacts. Positioned against rivals such as the cheaper and the , the Summit served as a key import in Chrysler's lineup, helping bridge the gap to domestic alternatives like the 1994 before being phased out. The Eagle brand's short lifespan, culminating in its discontinuation by at the end of the 1998 model year due to overlapping product lines and sluggish overall sales, hindered long-term market recognition for the despite positive contemporary reviews highlighting its . For instance, the 1993 model earned praise for offering "exceptional room" and "above-average fuel economy" at a competitive .

Safety, reliability, and discontinuation

The second-generation Eagle Summit (1993–1996) included standard side impact beams in its doors to improve occupant protection during collisions. Antilock braking systems (ABS) were optional on higher trims like the ES and became standard on select models starting in 1995, enhancing braking performance on slippery surfaces. In contrast, the early first-generation model (1989–1990) lacked ABS, while it became optional on higher trims from 1991; side beams were not standard, relying primarily on basic seat belts and child safety locks without advanced aids like airbags, which were not standard until 1994 in the second generation. The Eagle Summit was not evaluated in NHTSA or IIHS crash test programs, a common omission for subcompact imports of the era. Owner-reported reliability for the Eagle Summit is generally favorable, with many vehicles demonstrating strong and exceeding 100,000 miles with routine ; examples include one reaching 332,000 miles and another at 136,000 miles without major failures. Reviews on platforms like Edmunds average 4.1 out of 5 stars for the model, highlighting dependable performance for daily use. However, susceptibility affects underbody components in regions with heavy road salt exposure, such as snowy climates in the Midwest and Northeast. Common issues include failures, often requiring rebuilds, and premature suspension wear from worn bushings and struts, though these are typical for aging subcompacts. Low annual costs, around $400 for basic services like changes and timing belt replacements, contribute to its appeal as an economical vehicle. Production of the Eagle Summit ended after the 1996 model year amid Chrysler's broader phase-out of the Eagle brand and decision to cease importing Japanese-built vehicles. Declining sales, exacerbated by the rising value of the yen that increased import prices, played a key role, as did the surging popularity of SUVs over subcompacts. The model was succeeded by domestically produced options like the and Plymouth Neon, aligning with Chrysler's focus on U.S. manufacturing; the plant closure in 2016 impacted other Eagle products but not the Japan-sourced Summit directly. In recent years, the Eagle Summit has developed niche collector interest, particularly for all-wheel-drive wagon variants prized for their rarity, versatility, and nostalgia. Well-preserved examples command market values of $1,500 to $2,500 as of 2025, depending on condition and mileage.

References

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  17. https://www.edmunds.com/eagle/summit/1993/coupe/features-specs/
  18. https://www.edmunds.com/eagle/summit/1993/sedan/st-6567/features-specs/
  19. https://www.edmunds.com/eagle/summit/1993/wagon/st-6568/features-specs/
  20. https://www.kbb.com/eagle/summit/1995/specs/
  21. https://blog.consumerguide.com/1994-eagle-summit-wagon-mitsubishi-expo-plymouth-colt-vista/
  22. https://www.carparts.com/eagle/summit
  23. https://www.edmunds.com/eagle/summit/1995/review/
  24. https://afdc.energy.gov/files/pdfs/1993_feg.pdf
  25. https://www.automobile-catalog.com/car/1993/702605/eagle_summit_dl_coupe_1_5l.html
  26. https://www.carweek.com/research/eagle/summit/1993
  27. https://www.carspecs.us/cars/1993/eagle/summit/1233
  28. https://www.autoevolution.com/cars/eagle-summit-wagon-1992.html
  29. https://www.automobile-catalog.com/curve/1993/702740/eagle_summit_es_coupe_1_5l_automatic.html
  30. https://www.kbb.com/eagle/summit/1993/specs/
  31. https://www.jdpower.com/cars/1989/eagle/summit/lx-4-door-sedan
  32. https://www.cargurus.com/research/1989-Eagle-Summit-c26042
  33. https://www.cars.com/research/eagle-summit-1993/trims/
  34. https://www.cargurus.com/research/1996-Eagle-Summit-c1835
  35. https://www.automobile-catalog.com/make/eagle/summit_wagon/summit_wagon_dl/1992.html
  36. https://www.vehiclesizes.com/cars/eagle/summit/summit-wagon-1992/
  37. https://www.kbb.com/eagle/summit/1993/
  38. https://www.goodcarbadcar.net/eagle-summit-wagon-sales-figures/
  39. https://www.edmunds.com/eagle/summit/1993/review/
  40. https://www.theautopian.com/how-the-small-car-died-in-america/
  41. https://www.thetruthaboutcars.com/2022/03/abandoned-history-chrysler-and-the-colt-captive-economical-import-time-part-v/
  42. https://www.autonews.com/article/19971006/ANA/710060718/eagle-s-death-spurs-dealer-consolidation/
  43. https://www.dailypress.com/1993/02/07/summits-looks-and-handling-are-tops/
  44. https://everyauto.com/cars/research-reviews/Eagle/Summit
  45. https://www.edmunds.com/eagle/summit/1991/review/
  46. https://www.kbb.com/eagle/summit/1992/consumer-reviews/
  47. https://www.southcoasttoday.com/story/business/1996/05/23/chrysler-to-halt-japanese-imports/50645602007/
  48. https://www.chicagotribune.com/1996/05/23/chrysler-to-end-eagle-summit-line/
  49. https://www.kbb.com/eagle/summit/1996/awd-wagon-3d/
  50. https://www.hagerty.com/media/hagerty-community/heeding-the-eagles-call-and-trekking-to-the-summit/
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