The 2012 Mitsubishi Eclipse doesn’t perform as well as many of its affordable sports car rivals. Some reviews say the 2012 Mitsubishi has an aggressive look, but lacks the performance to back it up. Reviewers say that while four-cylinder models are adequate for commuting, you shouldn’t expect them to burn rubber.

In addition to being short on power, the 2012 Eclipse is a front-wheel drive, which is uncommon for an affordable sports car. This means that the 2012 Mitsubishi Eclipse handling isn’t as engaging as cars like the Mazda Miata or Nissan 370Z. Although the Eclipse’s affordable sports car rivals offer more thrilling performance, the 2012 Eclipse is well-suited to those who seek a sporty design, but don’t need a powerful engine under the hood.

The Mitsubishi Eclipse 2012 is offered in both four-passenger coupe and convertible (Spyder) body styles. Coupe models are offered in four trim levels — GS, GS Sport, GT and Mitsubishi 2012 Eclipse SE — while the Eclipse Spyder comes in just those last three flavors. Power for the front-wheel-drive 2012 Mitsubishi Eclipse and Eclipse Spyder comes from one of two engines.

The Mitsubishi 2012 Eclipse SE, GS and GS Sport models come with a 2.4-liter four-cylinder that produces 162 horsepower and 162 pound-feet of torque. The 2012 Eclipse GS comes standard with a five-speed manual, while a four-speed automatic is an option. The auto comes standard on the GS Sport and 2012 Eclipse SE. The Mitsubishi 2012 Eclipse mileage is EPA estimated with either transmission is 20 mpg city/28 mpg highway and 23 mpg combined.

Better performance is available by opting for the Mitsubishi 2012 Eclipse GT trim, which comes with a 265-horsepower V6 engine, but test drivers complain that it’s plagued by too much torque steer (a condition that causes front-wheel drive cars to pull to one side during acceleration). A five-speed automatic is standard in the GT trim of this new Mitsubishi Eclipse 2012. This engine requires premium fuel and its estimated fuel economy is 17 mpg city/25 mpg highway and 20 mpg combined. The suspension is also tuned to provide drivers with a comfortable daily commute.

While this might be a detriment to enthusiasts, shoppers interested in the 2012 Mitsubishi Eclipse sporty looks and comfortable ride may not mind. Inside, the 2012 Mitsubishi Eclipse is also a mixed bag. Some reviews say that its interior is attractive, with comfortable front seats, but they’re turned off by the cheap plastics and sub-par materials.

Outdated in just about every aspect, the 2012 Mitsubishi Eclipse just can’t keep up with the latest sport coupes and convertibles. Other downsides include a small backseat, lackluster interior quality and a high price. The latter might not be much of an issue, as dealers will likely have plenty of cash incentives to wave around.

Even so, we’d recommend shoppers try the Chevrolet Camaro V6, Ford Mustang V6 and Hyundai Genesis Coupe. All are better choices than the 2012 Mitsubishi Eclipse. If you’re only looking for a sexy shape and good fuel economy, put the Kia Forte Koup and Scion tC on your test-drive list aside the 2012 Mitsubishi Eclipse or better yet, waiting for the 2013 Mitsubishi Eclipse.